Children treated to ice cream as they return to St Mary's

Pupils were welcomed back to St Mary's Catholic Primary School in Middlewich with a day of wellbeing activities.

Headteacher Janet McKinlay said: The children were a little nervous first thing in the morning but they soon relaxed as they realised the day was starting with wellbeing activities and the promise of extra playtime.

Children enjoy chatting with their friends again

Children enjoy chatting with their friends again

"They were delighted to see their friends and were able to have a good chat. It was lovely to hear the buzz of happy voices round the school."

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Charlie, the pet therapy dog and Mrs McKinley visited every class to reassure the children and help them to relax.

"All teachers and teaching assistants have one agenda at the moment and that is to rebuild children’s self-esteem and confidence so that they can re-engage with the learning process and have the chance to celebrate friendships and relationships," said Mrs McKinlay.

Children enjoy ice cream and extra playtime

Children enjoy ice cream and extra playtime

"Once children feel safe and comfortable being back in the school environment and settle back into the routines, they will be able to continue their learning journey.

"If we get this right, they will then be able to make progress and make up for any gaps in learning time lost.

"Having the children back in school is like seeing a garden suddenly filled with bright, colourful flowers at the height of summer – delightful."

The choc ices and lollies were donated by Jack's supermarket in Middlewich.