The pandemic has been particularly hard for families who were already experiencing disadvantage. Families have had the additional pressures of financial hardship, isolation and home-schooling.
Brockhurst and Marston School have endeavoured to support children whose education has been impacted and disrupted due to the Coronavirus lockdown. During the Summer months they offered free online lessons to children in years 3-6 receiving free school meals and Home-Start supported families. The lessons were recorded to a online library where children could learn at their own pace. Headteacher David Fleming said that children play an active role in lessons by asking questions and interacting, which he says makes it “much more engaging and stimulating”.
Friends of Brockhurst and Marlston fundraised to provide technology for children who weren’t fortunate enough to have the equipment to have access this support. Their efforts were a huge success raising over £5,000. This vital funding has helped Home-Start to provide kindles to children across West Berkshire throughout the Summer. Families have been able to access Family Hub Zoom sessions together, help their children with their schooling and keep in touch with family members.
As the pandemic continues to maintain its grip over the country, we are delighted to be able to ensure that if another lockdown is imposed these families will have the technological equipment they need to maintain their child’s education and keep in contact with appropriate services to support their well-being and the well-being of their child. Grace Green, Home-Start West Berkshire’s director said; “We are exceptionally grateful to Brockhurst and Marlston School. It has been a joy to be able to offer this service to our families and to know that we are supporting all children to have first-class education.”
