PRIMARY schools in Halstead and the surrounding villages have been welcoming back youngsters to a brave new world this week.

Teachers rolled out the red carpet as the first pupils returned since the lockdown.

Smiles were wide as children returned to their new-look classrooms, clearly excited to be back at school for the first time in months.

Bridgette Gough, headteacher at St Andrew’s Primary, in Halstead, said: “It has been truly heartwarming to see and hear our children in the classrooms enjoying the company of both staff and their peers.

“We are all so so glad to have them back.

“Pupils have been really open to our advice and the many changes in routines and how they are used to working.

“We think they are doing a super job. We also want to thank our parents for their respect of our new systems and for the lovely comments they have shared about their child’s experiences.”

While a handful of pupils have attended school during the lockdown due to their parents being key workers, most have been forced to stay at home and attend online lessons and home schooling.

Schools have been doing plenty to make sure parents know their children are in safe hands when they return.

Measures include keeping small groups of children separated in “bubbles” and clear markings and one-way systems in corridors.

Social distancing is also adhered to with pupils at least two metres apart at all times.