With the Easter chocolate already a distant memory, it’s back to school this week for pupils at Moreton Hall, the independent boarding and day school near Oswestry.

Of course, the COVID-19 Lockdown means that the gates to the school’s stunning grounds and top facilities are physically closed, but across the region and indeed around the world, Moreton Hall’s teachers have opened their virtual classrooms to deliver lessons and learning to Moreton Hall pupils wherever they are currently based.

Since the Government’s closure of schools on March 20th and leading up to the Easter break, Moreton Hall’s priority has been not only to continue to provide the highest standard of teaching and learning but also to offer pupils the familiar structure of the school day, complete with academic and pastoral support and a co-curricular programme, as they navigate these unprecedented times. With Zoom lessons, virtual Art workshops, choir, and activities such as book clubs all continuing online, the Moreton Hall day has continued to be a full one.

Monday’s back to school day started with a virtual whole school assembly during which the Principal, George Budd, reflected on how Moretonians have played their part in their communities over Easter, whether clapping for the NHS, running for charity or supporting neighbours. In looking forward to the term ahead, Mr Budd highlighted the bespoke ‘Bridging the Gap’ programme for year 11 and year 13 students, ensuring that despite the cancellation of the GCSE and A Level examinations, Moreton Hall’s students will have a full and fulfilling final term in these pivotal years.

In looking ahead to the new term Mr Budd says:

“Over the half term break I spent some time walking around the Moreton site getting some well-needed fresh air. One thing I saw was the plaque on the wall by the Front Hall which pays tribute to the values which the courage and vision of our transformational former Head, Bronwen Lloyd Williams, bestowed upon the School.  These values of scholarship, gaiety and humanity have been seen in spades during our online learning programme. Students continue to win accolades in a variety of subjects from Drama to Maths, our staff have joined together in a joyous song, mixed by our Music Department, and students are volunteering and running marathons (a small bit at a time!) for charity. It’s been a truly humbling experience to see it all unfold”.

Reflecting on the start of term Upper Five pupil Grace said: ‘It’s really great being back at school; seeing all our teachers and friends really keeps the Moreton spirit running through each and every one of us.’

To find out more about Moreton Hall or to join us for a virtual Admissions Day on May 2nd please contact our Admissions team on admissions@moretonhall.org or visit our website: www.moretonhall.org