Barbara Meaney said that term had started at the beginning of the week, with all pupils returning after the summer holiday. It could be difficult in the first week to ensure that pupils were able to quickly adapt back to having a schedule and routine.

Clare Roberts said that there was a positive feeling at school, it was hoped that the impact from Covid which was significant in schools last year would not be repeated this academic year. A couple of teaching assistants had left the school at the end of last term and they had not yet been replaced due to the budgetary constraints.

The Chairman asked if Clare Roberts could give some context to her school.

Clare Roberts explained that Cheapside School was a one form primary school, from Reception through to Year 6. The school was located in Cheapside, in Ascot.

Dai Prendiville said that students were back in school at Desborough for their first day, it was the first time that RE had been taught at the school for a long time. Students and colleagues were looking forward to the subject being back on the teaching curriculum.

The Chairman said that there had been a letter sent from SACRE to Desborough in the past, as it had been noted that RE was not being taught. She added that it was fantastic to hear of the changes which had been made.

Ravinder Singh informed Members that two schools had recently visited Maidenhead Gurdwara, other schools were also interested in visiting soon.

Clive Haines commented on the support and welcome which schools in the borough had provided to Ukraine refugees. The majority of schools had taken in refugees.

Councillor Sharpe said that it would be interesting to hear how the Ukrainian children had been progressing at school and if it had an impact on teaching.

Anne Andrews suggested that as SACRE had written to Desborough asking for them to consider teaching RE, it would be worth sending a follow up letter thanking them for the changes that had been made and to wish them well with the roll out of RE across the key stages at the school.

ACTION – The Chairman to send out a letter to Desborough College, recognising the changes that had been made.

Councillor Stimson said it was important that the community did not leave those in need behind, particularly in the current economic climate.

The Chairman said it was important that what was known about need was shared, the whole borough was represented through SACRE and issues impacting on education could be discussed to see what could be done.

Ila Gangotra suggested that the Headteacher of Desborough College could be invited to join SACRE, to fill one of the Headteacher vacancies.

The Chairman said that the letter could be sent to the school first, she was mindful that Dai was already a representative on SACRE from Desborough. It would be ideal to have as many different schools represented as possible.

Councillor Baldwin echoed the comments made by Councillor Stimson, winter would be very difficult for many people and faith groups and schools could come together to help.