Full marks for support

Piled high: these books from Sydney Smith School were among many items damaged in schools across the city

Schools have rallied around to keep pupils learning as buildings begin to recover from the devastating effects of the flood.
Just eight of the city’s 99 school sites were not affected by the rising water levels meaning 65 primary schools, 13 secondary schools, 10 special education units and three nurseries were temporarily closed.
But teachers and schools have made special efforts to support each other and several are hosting pupils and staff from the worst hit schools.
When Rokeby Park Primary school in west Hull was closed because of flood damage, the head teacher of nearby Priory Primary stepped in to make sure the children’s education did not suffer.
“We escaped the worst of it but it could so easily have been our school that was devastated by flooding,” said Chris Fox, head teacher of Priory Primary.
“If it ever happened to us I’d like to think another school would help us out.”
Rokeby pupils are being provided with bus transport to and from Priory Primary each day. They are being taught by their own teachers in the school and the neighbouring Priory Centre until the end of term.
Meanwhile, Hull schools are now being assessed by surveyors to establish the costs of the clean-up and restoration.
“I have seen the impact of the flooding at several schools,” said Judith Harwood, the council’s head of learning, leisure and achievement.
“It’s not just the buildings that are affected but also the pupils’ work, text books, and school teaching equipment. It's devastating for all concerned but we are determined to carry on making progress.
“It’s heart-warming to see children from Priory and Rokeby primary schools in their respective school uniforms playing together at break times. New friendships are emerging as a result of the flood and school life is carrying on regardless.”
At the time of going to press, 9 schools remain closed.