Sheffield City Council pays tribute to all teaching staff on first anniversary of lockdown

Sheffield City Council has paid a tribute to all members of teaching staff who persevered in their professions since the UK imposed its first national lockdown one year ago today.
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Teaching has been dealt a huge blow by the pandemic as thousands of schools across the country were forced to shut, making the teachers adapt to remote learning – which has been difficult and challenging for both staff and pupils.

Cabinet member for Education and Skills Abtisam Mohamed said the city council would like to express their gratitude towards all amazing headteachers, teachers, teaching assistant and school support staff and early years staff who, she said, make a real and vital difference to the lives of the children and young people across the city.

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She said: “As we come to the first anniversary of the first ever lockdown, I would like to commend the hard work, commitment and endurance that has taken place over the last year.

Cabinet member for Education and Skills Abtisam MohamedCabinet member for Education and Skills Abtisam Mohamed
Cabinet member for Education and Skills Abtisam Mohamed

"You have become experts in online learning and found creative ways of communicating and delivering a broad and balanced curriculum. You have had to navigate the many restrictions and at times adapted at very short notice.

"You provided an essential service to keyworker and vulnerable children. Our NHS and key services would not have been able to function without you.

"Your passion, commitment and drive to inspire our city's children and young people is something we are extremely proud of and grateful for – especially so this year – and we want to pay tribute to you for your hard work and dedication during what has been a difficult and challenging time for all staff and pupils.

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“We are exceptionally proud of how our educational establishments have kept well-being at the centre of everything. The wellbeing of staff and children throughout the pandemic is just as important as closing the attainment gap. The children of Sheffield are lucky to have dedicated leaders, teachers and support staff that care about them in every way. From everyone at Sheffield City Council, THANK YOU!”

Stephen Betts, the Chief Executive of Learn Sheffield said the past one year has “simply been an extraordinary year.

"So many things about education have changed and kept changing this year, but our schools, academies and colleges have never stopped responding.

"The nature of what they have provided, to who and where has changed a number of times, but the drive to support their school communities has been constant.

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“The challenge isn’t over but there is already so much for our teachers, teaching assistants, school leaders and staff to be proud of.

"We are extremely grateful for all they continue to do and it is privilege to support them on behalf of the children and young people of Sheffield,” he said.

Education watchdog Ofsted had previously reported that children, who are the hardest hit by COVID-19 pandemic are regressing in basic skills and learning

In its findings, Ofsted said that some children, of all ages and backgrounds, have lost some basic skills and learning as a result of school closures and restrictions on movement.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.