Pupils return to school today!

Youngsters across the Island are returning to the classrooms today for the start of the new school year.

From today, attendance is also compulsory - when schools re-opened fully back in June to complete the last academic year following the Coronavirus lockdown heading back had been optional.

This summer also saw A-Level and GCSE results handed out based on teachers predictions after exams for 2020 were cancelled due to the global pandemic.

Speaking ahead of the new term, Education, Sport & Culture Minister, Dr Alex Allinson MHK, says: "Attending school is vitally important for our children’s education and just as importantly, their mental wellbeing.

"Current evidence has shown that COVID-19 infections and outbreaks are uncommon across all educational settings and the re-opening of schools has been associated with very few local outbreaks.

"The Isle of Man Government will be working closely with head teachers to ensure all our schools remain safe for pupils and staff."

Officials are reminding parents and carers they must make sure their children return to the school they're registered with from today with schools again required to record attendance and follow up absence.

Schools will also have the option to issue sanctions, including fixed penalty notices to parents whose children fail to attend without good reason.