BBC News, Guernsey
BBC
Five years have passed since the schools in Guernsey first closed their doors amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. As the island reflects on this tumultuous time, the dedication of teachers and the resilience of students shine through in the collective memory.
Nick Hynes, who was head of Inclusion and Services for Children and Schools during the lockdown, described the experience as profoundly daunting. He recalled, “It felt like we were making crucial decisions not only for ourselves but for the well-being of the entire community, without fully grasping the potential ramifications.” With unwavering commitment, educators pushed through their holidays to assist Guernsey’s most vulnerable students.
“After that period, the education sector grappled with considerable challenges,” Mr. Hynes continued. “The ongoing health issues among staff and students, along with recruitment struggles, made the recovery path rocky.” His respect for the dedication of teachers shone through as he stated, “I will always remember the commitment they showed—working tirelessly without complaint.”
Kieran James, Principal of the Sixth Form Centre, highlighted another crucial aspect of the transition to remote education: the digital divide. “We collaborated with telecom companies to distribute Wi-Fi dongles to ensure that all students had access,” he explained. “We were often seen dropping supplies through letterboxes so students could continue their learning journeys.”
“This experience brought the community closer,” James reflected. “Upon returning to school, we all discovered a renewed appreciation for our educational environment.”
Sophia Roger, now 17 and pursuing her studies at the Sixth Form Centre, expressed optimism about the community’s response during the pandemic. “We adapted quickly, which helped prevent the spread of the virus,” she said. Notably, she felt fortunate not to have experienced significant educational losses, crediting her former school for ensuring that resources were readily available.
Reflecting on her experiences, she added, “The lockdowns taught us all to appreciate social interactions, engaging with friends, teachers, and even simple outings. We cherish our daily conversations and interactions more than before.”
Tom Rylatt, a second-year Law student at the University of Brighton, vividly remembers the chaotic exit from university and the subsequent struggle to adapt to online classes. However, he feels that the summer lockdown experience in Guernsey was considerably more positive compared to many of his peers in the UK. “It felt like we were all in this together, supported by our community, which created a sense of unity that sometimes drifts,” he reflected.
“I recall feeling free, surrounded by a supportive community, and enjoying pleasant weather. Such moments enhanced the sense of clarity during uncertain times.”
