Pictures: Pupils return to school this week

From Monday (March 8), pupils were allowed to go back to school every day, but there must be regular testing and mask wearing to keep them and their families safe.

Jeremy Handscombe, executive headteacher at Holy Trinity Church of England Primary School in Taunton, said they were “so excited” to welcome the children back.

“We’re really proud of the engagement from children and the support from parents at home over the last two months, but there’s nothing like being back at school,” he said.

“We’ve continued to ensure that safety is our main concern at this time, with year groups working in bubbles, social distancing measures at our staggered arrival and collection times and of course lots of hand washing.

“Making sure that all of our children are settled and emotionally happy is our main priority this week, alongside ensuring that they fly with their learning.”

Caroline Lancy, acting headteacher at Priorswood Primary School in Taunton, said “a school without children is like the ocean without fish” - and she “couldn’t wait” to have everyone back.

“We have been incredibly proud of the huge effort that has been put in by parents supporting their children’s learning at home,” she said.

“The teachers have run daily virtual drop in sessions so anyone that was struggling could get extra help and some children continued with the additional support they would get in school remotely.

“I have to thank the whole school community who have worked tirelessly in the best interests of the children.”

Headteacher David Frowde, of Knights Templar Community Church School in Watchet, praised parents and staff for their remote learning efforts.

“It was lovely to see smiley happy faces and to be able to talk with parents again in person,” he added.

Secondary schools in the area also welcomed back students this week.

Taunton Academy headteacher, John Eddy, said lockdown will have meant many “successes” as well as “challenges”.

“Our focus as students return will be on their wellbeing and learning to make sure that they all make progress,” he said.

“The chance to see their friends and get out of the house will be really important, as will the return to routine.”

And Joanne Cowper, deputy headteacher at Crispin School Academy in Street, said students, families and the school team have “worked hard and shown real resilience”.

“Our top priority is ensuring students can return safely next week, aiming to deliver a fantastic face to face student experience,” she added.