PUPILS from three year groups at a Romsey school were welcomed back on Monday as the coronavirus lockdown continued to ease.

Some children at Romsey Abbey C of E Primary School, Church Lane, came back for the first time since schools were closed from March 20, except to key workers' children and those who are vulnerable.

Now the school's headteacher has revealed her thoughts on Years R, 1 and 6 returning to the classroom.

Headteacher, Julie-Anne Palfrey, said in a newsletter to parents: "Monday was a very exciting and happy day for the staff as we welcomed more children back to school; we are hoping that children in Years 2-5 will soon be able to join us.

"The last two days have gone very smoothly with children enjoying being back with their peers and teachers.

"The children are coping very well with the slight changes to our day particularly around staying in their bubble and just waving to friends in other bubbles from a distance.”

She added: "We can see that you have done a great job of ensuring that your children understand that they need to keep in their bubble by modelling this with your interactions at home.

"It has been lovely for staff to receive all of the positive feedback from parents as we begin to open the school to more children.”

The headteacher also thanked parents for continuing to help Years 2, 3 4 and 5 with their home learning.

She said: "We thank all parents for their continued support with home learning.

"We have had some very positive feedback on the use of the Oak Academy and BBC Bitesize daily resources which the Government have heavily invested in to support during this period of phased return.

"Children who are continuing with their learning at home during this period are receiving a phone call from a member of the pastoral team during the week to find out how things are going.”

She added: "I would like to thank the staff for all of the work they continue to do in supporting our children.

"I feel very lucky and proud to work with such an amazing and positive team.

"Thank you to, to the PTA for arranging a surprise delivery from Dominoes yesterday - a lovely treat.”