The John of Gaunt School is one of only 70 schools across the country to have achieved the Teach Well School Gold Award.

The award is given to schools who have taken exceptional care of their staff’s physical and mental wellbeing throughout Covid-19.

Teach Well CEO, Steven Waters said: “We are delighted to present this award to The John of Gaunt School, from the moment we read the application it was clear the school is doing all it can to look after both the physical and mental wellbeing of their staff, the school richly deserve their hard work to be recognised.”

Since lockdown the school has stayed open for vulnerable pupils and key worker children and is now open years 10 and 12.

Paul Skipp, the headteacher said: “The wellbeing of staff and students has always been a priority, I have made sure that I have communicated with staff almost every day since lockdown as clear communication is so important through challenging times.

“Our staff have done a wonderful job, setting and marking work as well as keeping in regular communication with our students."

As well as the serious side of schooling the John of Gaunt staff have worked together to produce a number of encouraging group messages to students and parents, along with the most staff video that even includes John Travolta making a guest appearance.

Mr Skipp added: “I want to thank everyone for their support at this difficult time, our staff, parents and students have worked really well together and I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of the whole school community."