Nick Gibb MP visited the Regis Academy to see the preparations they were making for the return of all pupils in September and to meet the new acting principal, David Oakes.

Mr Oakes and Mr Gibb discussed the online lessons the school has been providing since lockdown began, including the provision of online pre-recorded lessons. The school remained open for the children of critical workers and vulnerable children throughout the period of the lockdown. About 150 pupils were attending school each day.

They also discussed plans for reopening the school to all pupils on 7 September. The school will ensue all pupils are given a talk about the extensive health and safety measures that will be in place in the school to minimise the risk of the transmission of the infection.

Nick Gibb said: “It was a pleasure to meet David Oakes, the acting Principal of the Regis School. Mr Oakes is clearly driven by wanting to deliver an outstanding education for young people in Bognor Regis.

“The continued education the school has been providing online during lockdown has been important but nothing is better than children and young people being back in the classroom with their teachers and friends. It’s clear the school is going to  great lengths to ensure pupils and staff will be safe when they return in September.”

Photo: David Oakes and Nick Gibb