THERE was nearly a 100 per cent attendance record at Cheshire's primary schools during the first week of reopening.

Cheshire East Council says the 98 per cent figure is evidence that parents are supporting the first step on the roadmap to recovery from the latest lockdown.

Overall attendance rates in all the the county's schools was at 80 per cent, compared to an England average of 68 per cent.

Many secondary schools, like Sir William Stanier and the Oaks Academy in Crewe, are conducting a phased return to allow for the rapid testing of pupils with lateral flow.

At the Oaks students are having to complete three in-school tests within their first two weeks back.

Cllr Kathryn Flavell, Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for children and families, said: "Getting children and young people back to school has been a top priority nationally and for this council. It's fantastic news that attendance is high across Cheshire East and I know that many children and young people have been so pleased to see their friends and teachers again."

Education chiefs are discussing plans for summer schools and catch up programmes to make up for months of home schooling.

"The focus for education now, quite rightly, is on wellbeing and catching up on learning," added Cllr Flavell "We continue to assist schools in supporting pupils' mental health and wellbeing, so they are able to help those who are most anxious.

"I would like to thank parents, schools, colleges, children and young people for playing their part in tackling this virus and adapting to home learning so well. I recognise this has been a huge challenge, particularly for working parents and for those who have limited online access."

The rapid testing programme will include monitoring of incident rates and teaching staff and pupils are being urged to adhere to the latest Covid measures.

For any parent or carer who is anxious about their child's return to school or college, there is support available at [email protected]