Kate pays tribute to teachers doing ‘fantastic job’ during Covid

Kate paid tribute to teachers working hard during the pandemic (Picture: Getty)

The Duchess of Cambridge has praised teachers for being a ‘lifeline’ for families but urged them ‘please look after yourselves’.

It comes as educators are stretched by having to deliver lessons in person to vulnerable children and those of key workers, while also arrange online learning for children at home while schools are closed.

The future queen made her comments to headteacher Ashley Sheridan during Children’s Mental Health Week, as part of a series of video calls with teachers and staff from Ribbon Academy, County Durham.

The duchess said: ‘Schools are doing an amazing job, as parents you really recognise what a vital role you do play for us on a day to day basis – having remote learning as well.’

The duchess asked about the mental health of parents and was told by teacher Louise Tweedie the pandemic will encourage schools to prioritise mental health.

Kate, who held the one-to-one video calls on Tuesday, added: ‘I totally agree. (I’m) so passionate about all the works that teachers up and down the country are doing. You are doing the most amazing job.

What an inspiring group of teachers!

Although it’s Children’s Mental Health Week, we need to ensure our teachers are supported as well. @Place2Be have been champions of mental health in schools across the UK & continue to provide support to those in need throughout lockdown. pic.twitter.com/I7Oo0oCBVU

— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) February 4, 2021

‘You are a lifeline to so many families out there. I know it takes an awful lot of effort, energy, patience.’

Ribbon Academy and Place2Be, a charity which provides mental health support in schools, have been working in partnership since 2002 to provide teachers and school workers with the tools they need to support the psychological wellbeing of children, parents and staff.

The duchess also spoke to Chris Reay, a high-level teaching and learning partner, who attended Place2Be sessions as a child after a traumatic life event, and is now working at the school in the village of Murton near Durham.

Kate, who is royal patron of Place2Be, said: ‘I know this time has been really challenging for teachers across the country. You play such a vital role in looking after our children so it’s important that you are looked after too.

‘I want to say a massive thank you to teachers across the country. You’re doing a fantastic job. It’s been really, really hard work. But please look after yourselves.’

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