Shevuos Social Distance activities

Side by Side, a Special Needs School in Stamford Hill, delivered an educational and creative programme for its pupils in the lead up to Shavuot, both for those that were learning from a distance and for those onsite.

The Early Years classes were sent materials for planting, which they were able to complete in the safety and comfort of their own homes with the support of their family members, and all year groups were sent Shavuot inspired activities and learning packs to complete at home. Daily teleconferencing calls, which began in March following the school’s temporary closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic, have also been continuing and content about the festival was incorporated into the syllabus.

Side by Side has implemented, and continues to implement, every necessary precaution to protect its staff and pupils and has been carefully planning for the phased return of pupils from 1^st June in line with the latest Government guidance. The children that are currently attending the school’s premises, following its recent re-opening for a small number of pupils in accordance with official guidelines, were presented with the opportunity to bake their own individual cheesecakes to honour the festival’s tradition. This was an activity the pupils were able to participate in together, whilst remaining socially distanced.

Gerald Lebrett, Headteacher of Side by Side, said: “Covid-19 has posed many challenges and the health and wellbeing of our staff, our pupils and their families is of the upmost importance to us all at Side by Side. Bringing the delight of Shavuot to our pupils at this difficult time in a safe and fun medium was a truly heart-warming and memorable experience.”