Be prepared

Coronavirus made the last school year exceptional but you can help your loved ones cope with whatever the new one throws at them with a little preparation

- Kate Jones

Coronavirus’ impact on school life has been so deep it’s unlikely that the 2020–21 school year will be a complete return to normal. Back in June, there was talk of how the new academic year could see students shift between classroom and home-based learning, and of how GCSE and A-level grades for 2021 could be determined by a mixture of examinations and assessment. Charity Parentkind says classrooms will alter due to the pandemic and that children starting primary school in September will be unlikely to be able to attend taster sessions beforehand.

Whatever happens, you can still help prepare your child for the academic year ahead. Children of all ages benefit from easing back into the school routine before the new year starts, so assist your child to do this as it gets nearer to the start of term.