"Your future isn't cancelled"

Northumberland teacher Sam Connor is urging students that their future isn’t being cancelled due to the pandemic and lockdown.
Sam Connor, associate assistant headteacher at King Edward VI School in Morpeth.Sam Connor, associate assistant headteacher at King Edward VI School in Morpeth.
Sam Connor, associate assistant headteacher at King Edward VI School in Morpeth.

The 33-year-old associate assistant headteacher at King Edward VI School in Morpeth has been sharing life through his diary as part of the #BeatCovidNE campaign.

He said: “It’s been all systems go this week. We’ve been running virtual parents evenings for Year 9 students to discuss their GCSE choices.

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“Holding virtual meetings has enabled us to be flexible, streamlined and crucially, be on hand to reassure those feeling anxious about the future.

“As a school, quality careers advice is something we didn't want to sacrifice during the pandemic. Going digital has proven to be hugely beneficial.

"Each Year 9 student has received bespoke guidance. Based on their personal goals teachers have discussed the options available to them, along with their parents or carers.

"I want to reassure students, especially those in exam years, that your future isn’t cancelled.

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"Working together we can help you achieve your ambitions and future aspirations – no matter the challenges.

“It’s coming up to just over a year now of the pandemic and I know we’re all feeling tired, myself included.

"As a teacher, the Prime Minister’s announcement of a phased reopening of schools from Monday, March 8, brings an overriding feeling of tentative relief.

"There’s nothing teachers want more right now than to return to the classroom. But only if we can ensure the safety of our staff, their families, students, parents and carers. The safety and wellbeing of everyone in school is our top priority.

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“While we’re awaiting clarity on how returning to school will work, I’d like to reassure our school community that we’ll be ready.

"We have an efficient staff testing programme in place, we’re following the latest guidance and the two-week notice period will allow us to make and implement robust plans.

“At school, we’re already taking all of the necessary measures to stay safe within the workplace. Good communication is the key to staying vigilant.

"It’s simple things from not sharing a pen to ensuring colleagues stay two metres apart. It’s important to keep repeating the hands, face and space message, even during breaks, and not become complacent.

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“At home, this month is turning out to be quite busy with Valentine's Day, Shrove Tuesday and February half-term all coming up. For Valentine’s Day, I think we’ll bake some treats with the kids and then my wife Natalie and I will order an Italian for two with a bottle of wine.

"The kids love pancakes so I think having them for both breakfast and dessert will be in order, with all the toppings! For me, it has to be melted Mars bar while the pancakes are still hot.

“While February half-term this year will be spent at home, our perfect day out would be a trip to Bamburgh beach. We’d walk from Bamburgh to Seahouses with the kids and the dogs and meet up with family and friends.

"There’s nothing better than fish and chips followed by an ice cream (even if it is freezing!) while you look out on the stunning coastline.

"Thinking back on days like that always makes me smile. I can’t wait to go back after lockdown.”