Ramsey Grammar School has awarded parents top marks for the way in which they rose to the challenge of being teachers during lockdown.

Pupils and teachers arrived at RGS, and schools across the island, on March 23 to find out they would close indefinitely that day.

Plans had to very quickly be drawn up to maintain continuity of education for students and to accommodate the children of key workers.

Overnight, parents became teachers for more than 97% of the school’s population using online resources and drawing on the support offered from teachers virtually.

Head teacher Annette Baker said: ’Although this was a hugely unsettling and anxious time for everyone, the lockdown has shown us once again how important it is to have strong and supportive relationships between home and school.

’I am very proud of how our parents and carers have responded to the challenge of taking on the role of teachers and hereby award them all with an A*.’

Online surveys were conducted with staff, students and parents to obtain feedback on the emergency remote learning provided by teachers during lockdown, as well as on the experience of the students.

The results will be incorporated into the school’s new policy to be used in the event of another lockdown.

Mrs Baker said: ’Although the experience of school closure was challenging and stressful for many people, feedback from parents suggests that there are many positives to be drawn from this period.

’It is very clear that parents have been very innovative and creative in the education they have provided for their children.’

Feedback indicated students had learned life skills including cooking as well as uncovered hidden talents.

’The theme of enjoying family life was a common one,’ said Mrs Baker.