Headteacher’s heart-warming message of hope to school children amid coronavirus crisis

Nick Conway, headteacher of St Aloysius RC primary school in Hebburn, has urged his school children not to worry during what is a challenging and confusing time.

As of Friday, March 20 schools in the borough closed to all pupils except those of key workers as Covid-19 continues to spread across the UK.

The ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rated St Aloysius, will remain open as long as the Government allows for those children and parents who need it.

In a heart-warming letter sent out to pupils via their parents on Tuesday, March 24, Mr Conway’s message was one of hope.

He encouraged children follow the Government’s guidance to help keep people safe, writing: “You have heard a lot about the coronavirus and some strange things are happening that may make you afraid or worried. Please try not to be worried.

“Lots of brilliant grown-ups are helping sort this tricky problem. These clever women and men are giving us some very clear guidance and working hard to help us.

“They are telling us to stay away from people, apart from our immediate family for a period of time. It is important that we follow this guidance. By doing this, It will help to keep our loved ones and friends safe.

“Staying away from each other and from our wonderful school will not last forever.”

The teacher also paid a touching tribute to his ‘brave’ students.

He said: “These are very unusual times and one day, when this is all over, you will be telling your children about the time that our brilliant community overcame a huge challenge, how we stuck together to help and care for each other.

“You will also tell them how brave you have been.

“This is the most challenging time in my life...In time, our communities will grow stronger because of the awful things we are currently facing.

“I know that you are strong, compassionate with those around you and will be a powerful force for good in your homes. This thought fills me with pride.”

Urging them to be a ‘positive role model’, he continued: “Let other people see how powerful and wonderful you are by talking to adults about what you are afraid of, bringing positivity to your family when they look sad and strengthening them by your good humour or kind words. This strange time will pass and at some point in the future our current St Aloysius community will be together again.

“In the meantime, be kind, be hopeful and talk to the people who love you.”

Speaking to the Gazette, Mr Conway said he was committed to supporting the “most vulnerable pupils and their families”, “critical workers in the NHS” and the “general school population with their mental health and continuing education” in these unprecedented times.

He added: “This is a horrible time for many but there will be hope and light at the end.”