WEST FIFE pupils were finally back to the classroom yesterday (Wednesday) after five months away due to COVID-19.

For Woodmill High School, it was an even bigger celebration after nearly a year of disruption following last August's massive blaze that left large parts of the building destroyed.

Headteacher Sandy McIntosh said he was "so pleased" that day had finally arrived for the Woodmill community.

He said: “We’ve been away from our school longer than most due to the fire that devastated part of the school almost a year ago.

“I’m so pleased that this day is here, it’s great to be back, albeit we’ll still be working a bit differently to before. We are looking forward to the speedy completion of the final stage of the build when we can welcome back our young people from our Department of Additional Support, and then our whole school community will be back together.

“Our school is looking good and we’ve got a really nice environment for our young people to learn in. We want to make sure our young people have the best possible opportunities when they’re back in their classes.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again and I’m sure we’re all looking forward to catching up and reconnecting with friends, teachers and learning.”

Nursery, primary-aged children and special schools, including those who attend additional support classes, all returned in Fife yesterday.

Secondary schools, due to their size, layout and timetable arrangements, are staggering pupils’ return, with everyone expected to be back in from Monday.

Councillor Fay Sinclair, convener of Fife Council's education and children’s services committee, said: “I’m delighted that we’re finally able to welcome back our children and young people to school today.

“The last few months haven’t been easy juggling work, home-schooling and adjusting to life in lockdown, so I’m sure that everyone is looking forward to things feeling a bit more ‘normal’ again."

Executive director for education and children’s services Carrie Lindsay added: “Staff from across Fife Council have worked tirelessly to make sure our schools are ready to open safely today. I’d like to thank everyone involved for making this possible."