In preparation for next week's return to the classroom, local schools have been following government guidance to ensure that their premises are Covid-secure.

Unless they are classed as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable, pupils at Sandbach's primary schools and secondary schools, will be returning on Monday 8 March.

Secondary pupils will now be required to wear face coverings where a social distance of two metres cannot be maintained. This will include in classrooms and communal areas.

They are also being encouraged to take a rapid result Covid-19 test as they return. Three tests will be done on the school premises, three to five days apart, and home testing kits will be provided to families to test twice weekly thereafter.

Testing is voluntary and children and young people will not be tested unless a parent or carer has given informed consent. Young people over the age of 18 can decide for themselves if they wish to be tested.

Cllr Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for children and families, said: "We recognise that the last few months have been hard due to the most recent lockdown measures, dark winter days and the challenges of home schooling.

"I would like to thank all parent and carers for the role you have played in supporting home learning. I understand how challenging this has been and I am delighted that children and young people are going back to school next week.

"I know that schools and colleges are looking forward to welcoming children and young people back and have worked hard to ensure that they are ready for their return by carefully planning, reviewing their risk assessments and safety measures.

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Cllr Flavell explained that staff gad received "increased training" in mental health to better help struggling pupils.

She added: "It is great news that we can now welcome children and young people back to school and college. It remains so important that we do all that we can, together with families, schools and colleges, to ensure that they return to continue their education, for their wellbeing, and for their wider development."