PARENTS in Wrexham who have sent their children back to school today have shared their thoughts.

As schools across Wales re-opened their doors today for the first time in more than three months, the Leader spoke to parents of pupils who attend Ysgol Bryn Alyn and Ysgol Heulfan in Gwersyllt to have a say on what this news means for them and their children.

One parent, Sandra Jones, whose son is a pupil at Ysgol Bryn Alyn, said: "I'm sure many parents are just glad that things appear to be getting back to some kind of normal.

"I think that youngsters need this."

Dropping off their child at Ysgol Heulfan, mum Lisa Roberts echoed: "I'm just glad that things are slowly getting back to normal."

Despite the excitement that schools have re-opened with strict restrictions in place, many parents are still left feeling somewhat concerned regarding the virus outbreak.

However, in what is effectively a mini term, no more than one-third of Welsh pupils will be asked to attend school at any one time; and staggered starts and lesson times will make it easier for teachers to maintain social distancing in their classrooms.

Paula Hughes, said: "We as a family are super excited but I must admit as a parent I had my doubts at first.

"However, knowing that time and effort has been made to ensure that restrictions will be followed, this allowed me to be certain that sending my child back was the right choice."

Many schools across the region have either been fully or partially closed since the outbreak started in March, although many hubs have kept running for vulnerable and key workers’ children.

The coronavirus pandemic has sent a shockwave through the education system by cancelling GCSE and A-level exams, forcing teachers to set assignments online, and robbing children of the chance to learn, play, and develop alongside their peers.

Dad, Tom Williams, has welcomed the news but admitted that he, like many other parents, will have to adjust to the new situation.

He said: "I'm going to be a bit lost, as I've gotten used to having my little buddy around for the last few months.

"However, I'm just glad that he will get to see some of his friends."