Back to school: Excitement and anxiety over return to classroom

Pupils in Scotland have started returning to the classroom following the summer break and for some it’s their very first day at school.

On Wednesday, more than 1000 children were expected to start primary one in Angus.

However, this exciting time has been met with concern by some families, with coronavirus restrictions preventing the normal transition experience from nursery to P1.

Shona Mather, mother of primary one pupil Jack, said: “Obviously it’s very different this year with the whole Covid situation.

“He’s spent so much time at home and broken learning, going to nursery here and there, so it’s just nice to actually see him go off and start his journey into primary one.”

She added: “We did get to go and look in the windows of the school, but the parents weren’t lucky enough to get inside.

“It is a bit strange to think I have no idea, really, where he’s going, but I’m sure it’ll be okay.”

Although Scotland has now moved beyond level zero, some restrictions will remain in classrooms.

Masks will still be worn in certain settings, and social distancing between teachers and pupils will continue.

Enhanced cleaning, hygiene measures such as hand sanitising, and ventilation of rooms will remain for at least six weeks.

With young people across Scotland spending much of the past year out of school and home learning, the full-time return to a new year group and easing of some social interaction restrictions has led to concerns.

Samantha Atagan, mum of P7 pupil Kaan, said: “We’re looking forward to getting back to a routine and a bit of normality.

“It feels like things are slowly and gradually returning back to normal, which is great.

“Juggling a little bit of anxiety going back with the guidelines changing and the school allowing them all to mix together, purely because for the past year we’ve said you’re not allowed to.

“Being back to a structure, and school, and having support there is so much better.”