It was a warm and sunny welcome for the pupils of St Stephens Community Academy, in Launceston, as they returned to school on Monday, March 8, after many months of studying from home.

To add to the excitement, a six-foot-high balloon arch in the school’s signature colours had been erected at the entrance to the playground.

Headteacher Maura Furber was delighted to welcome back pupils, along with other members of teaching and support staff.

She said: “A very warm, sunny welcome back to all our pupils at St Stephens Community Academy in Launceston. The school has been filled with laughter and joy — just as it should be every day.

“A huge thank you to our wonderful PTFA (Parents Teachers and Friends Association) for funding the beautiful balloon arch across the entrance into the school playground. We wanted something special to let the children and families know how excited we were that we could all be back together.

“Thank you also to Emily at ‘Once in a Blue Balloon’ for creating the 6ft arch in our school colours. As an eco-school we are delighted that the balloons will be recycled when the time is right into eco bricks.”