COSLA’s Children and Young People Spokesperson, Councillor Stephen McCabe, and Resources Spokesperson, Councillor Gail Macgregor, said:

“As schools across Scotland prepare to welcome pupils back this week, we would like to pay tribute to our school staff teams - cleaners, janitors, catering staff, teachers, support staff and youth workers - their response during the COVID-19 pandemic has been nothing short of heroic.

“They have continued to work quickly and effectively in unprecedented circumstances to support and guide children through home learning, whilst striving to ensure pupils could return to their classrooms in safe and timely manner.

“This has been no easy task, and we thank them for their unwavering efforts and dedication during the most challenging of times over the past five months.

“We’d also like to take this opportunity to recognise the support and patience from parents and carers as we all navigated uncertain times following the closure of schools back in March.

“And lastly, to our children and young people – we have continued to be impressed by your resilience and we are sure your teachers are incredibly proud of your attitude and efforts through this pandemic.

“We hope you enjoy returning to your classrooms with your friends and settle back into the routine quickly.”