Diamond Creek East Primary School students return to classes after COVID lockdown

There were tears of joy, hugs, welcome-back banners and applause as Diamond Creek students returned to classes. But the children have come back to a very different school with strange, new rules.

Diamond Creek East Primary School Prep students Bailey, Thomas, Amelia and Mila are excited to return to the classroom. Picture: Josie Hayden

About 190 children returned to a very different Diamond Creek East Primary School on Tuesday morning, after more than six weeks learning from home.

Students were greeted with a large welcome-back banner and balloons, while parents adhered to strict social distancing measures at the school gates.

Principal Rob Rostolis told Leader the transition was seamless.

“There were a couple of anxious children, which was to be expected but otherwise 99 per cent of students went back to the classrooms with a smile on their faces,” he said.

“Parents were fantastic — they gave their kids a quick cuddle and left as soon as possible as per our advice.”

Nicky Walters kisses her daughter Ava goodbye. Picture: Josie Hayden

Andy Hall and daughter Anabelle. Picture: Josie Hayden

Children in Prep, Year 1 and 2 across the state returned to classes today following Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews’ recommendations.

In state schools all staff will be on site from May 26.

Mr Rostolis said students would spend the morning chatting with their teachers and classmates, before moving back into curriculum.

“It’s important any nerves are settled and the students feels as comfortable as possible before learning commences,” he said.

“In the following weeks we will continue our face-to-face learning while encouraging a decrease in screen time and will be asking parents to support us on this.

“We’ll also be focusing on assessing the numeracy and literacy of our students and making sure they are all learning at the growth we expect.”

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The school will stagger start and finish times over the next few weeks, while water taps and the canteen are off-limits.

There are strict rules on shared equipment and a “huge amount” of hand sanitiser stations throughout the campus.

Classrooms have also been set up in a way to adhere to social distancing.

“The teachers and cleaners have all done a fantastic job in preparation for this day,” Mr Rostolis said.

“The safety of students, teachers and parents is our number one priority.”