A popular Lichfield primary school has been busy welcoming pupils back to the classroom – and it’s been a sunny start to the week in more ways than one.

Scotch Orchard Primary School, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), is “brimming with smiles and laughter” as pupils and staff reunite following the nation’s ‘return to school’.

Headteacher Joanne Bishop said: “It is wonderful to welcome back our children this week. Although we’ve been teaching both in school and remotely, we’ve really missed the pupils and it’s lovely to see them together again.

There’s a real buzz about school – it’s brimming with smiles and laughter. We had a fantastic first day back, helping children to settle in and have lots of fun.”

One of the planned activities saw year 6 children enjoying an art afternoon using leaves to create print collages inspired by Scotch Orchard’s whole-school book, ‘Leaf’.

Mrs Bishop said: “Our families have been brilliant, so supportive and enthusiastic. We will never forget their thought and care during this time and how they decorated the school gates earlier this year with notes and pictures of kindness.

Not forgetting the fantastic team at Scotch Orchard, who have been a tower of strength throughout. We are so excited and looking ahead to spring and summer. There are so many people to thank, including the children, who have been absolute rays of sunshine!”