Mar 26 2025
As Guernsey marks five years since the initial Covid lockdown, the impact of the pandemic on education and the community continues to resonate. Nick Hynes, currently the Director of Education and formerly the head of Inclusion and Services for Children and Schools, described the situation as "scary," recalling the significant decisions made during that time.
During the lockdown, teachers worked tirelessly, even during their Easter holidays, to support the most vulnerable students in Guernsey. Hynes noted, "After Covid, education struggled for a long time due to ongoing illnesses and challenges in staff recruitment and retention," while also highlighting the remarkable dedication of the staff.
Kieran James, the principal of the Sixth Form Centre, shared insights about the transition to online learning, stating that the school worked closely with telecom agencies to ensure students had the necessary resources. "We were literally going around dropping dongles and books through people's postboxes so students could learn," he recalled.
Students like Sophia Roger, who was in Year 7 at Blanchelande College during the lockdown, felt that the educational support they received minimized the disruption. Now 17, she reflected on how the experience made her more appreciative of social interactions and learning opportunities.
Tom Rylatt, a second-year Law student at the University of Brighton at the time, described the experience of completing studies online as challenging. However, he appreciated the sense of community in Guernsey during lockdown, stating it was a unique time when everyone rallied together, creating a sense of solidarity.
These reflections highlight the resilience and dedication of educators, students, and communities in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic.
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