Doncaster school turns to online retail giant Amazon for help with re-opening in September

But Doncaster headteacher Natalie Perry has turned to the online retail giant Amazon for help when she sees pupils return to her school in September.

Natalie runs Enhancement Training, which runs a school in Balby for 12 to 15 year olds who are out of their mainstream schools. It teaches practical skills including construction and mechanics.

It is due to re-open in September – and Natalie’s staff are among a number of businesses to take part in tours run by the retailer to show how they are working.

She said they had been able to see how measures like one way systems, cleaning, and masks could be used.

Natalie said: “We sent five members of staff down to have a look. I think what has been important is that it has shown people who have not encountered anyone who had suffered from coronavirus that it was not just me who is taking this seriously, and how important it is to do so.

"I think it has really backed up what I’ve been telling them.

"I have some staff who have been furloughed who will be back for September, and I’d like to send them too if I can. It helps make it clear why you have to stagger breaks and things too.”

Yetunde Elebuibon-Craig has also visited the Amazon site. She owns Bawtry-based Knowledge Pool, which provides computer training. She said the visit had help rejig how courses are run, so that students will get initial education over the phone using their own equpiment, or tablets provided, to reduce the need for close contact between teachers and students.

Adam Banks, site leader at Amazon Doncaster, said: “We’re delighted to be able to show members of Doncaster Chamber of Commerce first-hand how we have implemented a range of measures to keep our people safe in Doncaster while continuing to serve our customers. We’re proud to be part of the Doncaster community and want to do all we can to help fellow (Doncaster) Chamber members return to work safely and effectively whatever their line of work or occupation.”

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