Northamptonshire headteacher reveals pride after receiving Rose of Northamptonshire award

For headteacher Mark Currell, nothing would make him happier than his primary school returning to normal, with everyone back in class. When that will happen, however, is anyone's guess.

In the meantime, Mark can take heart from the fact that the community recognises that he and his team are doing all they can in challenging circumstances.

Mark has received a Rose of Northamptonshire Award, given for his role in leading Roade Primary School to help keep the community together during the lockdown periods.

"I found out a few weeks ago. I didn't know who had nominated me. I still don't and it's really quite nice that I don't know," Mark said.

"It is ever so humbling. You never know how many people you touch or influence, and it is nice to know that some of the little things you do are recognised and acknowledged," he added.

Describing them as "little things" is somewhat of an understatement. The school has gone to incredible lengths to engage with pupils, parents and the wider community.

"We've realised that as a school, the crucial element is keeping people engaged and letting everyone know that we are here. Lots of online learning, live lessons and practical activities but there is an awful lot of fun and games too," he said.

"We have also made lots of films, one came out recently last week. We will do whatever it takes to keep the community engaged," he added.

Mark also recognises that it is an incredibly challenging time for all - staff, parents and pupils themselves. And this lockdown feels very different to previous ones, he said.

"The last week or so has been the hardest. There is a general air of this is now hard'. I know a lot of our staff say they are not getting the same feedback they used to get from pupils. Everyone is at the edge of their mental health limits," he said. "Hats off to all of our parents, they deserve all of the credit for making this work, whatever 'this' is."

This week is Children's Mental Health Week and on Wednesday the school organised a "no screens day" and encouraged pupils to take part in a variety of different activities, which was widely appreciated by parents.

As to when school may return, there is no firm date yet and Mark and his team will find out at the same time as everyone else.

"No-one wants to be in this situation - we just want school to be back, open to all and safe," he said.