SCHOOL communities, pupils and staff in Powys are being thanked for their efforts since the start of the new school year.

Powys County Council has made the announcement as schools prepare to finish for half-term on Friday, October 16, which will see learners and staff enjoy a well-deserved two-week break.

Schools in Powys are having an extra week for the October half term after remaining open until July 24 as part of an extended summer term, part of the Welsh Government's 'Check In, Catch Up Prepare for summer and September' initiative, which saw pupils return to school at the end of June.

Councillor Phyl Davies, PCC’s cabinet member for education and property, said: “As we come to the end of a tough, busy and successful first school term, I would like to thank all staff that work in and support our schools to let them know that we appreciate how they have coped in this difficult times.

“I would also want to thank all the non-school staff that have worked, sometimes in the background, to keep our schools open. What we have achieved during the first term has well and truly been a team effort.

“I also want to extend a special thank you to our learners and parents across Powys for all they have done in supporting their school by following the guidance to stop the spread of coronavirus.

“We appreciate how challenging it has been to deliver education during a pandemic and again, I want to thank everyone associated with our schools for all their hard work since the beginning of September.

“I wish everyone in Powys schools a safe October break and look forward to a refreshed return in the second term.”