'God no!': Doncaster people speak out about the idea to keep schools open over the summer - and most definitely do not agree

Most pupils have had significant chunks of 2020 filled with remote learning rather than in school teaching. One suggestion from England’s Children's Commissioner, Anne Longfield, was that school holidays should be used to catch children up with lost lessons.

We asked our readers if they thought that was a good idea.

Kathy Alice Barsby, said: “God no!

"Children have had all the same stress as adults.

"There isn't enough time in the holidays to "catch up" anyway.”

Michelle Nevin agrees.

She said: “No the children need to start enjoying their childhood and be kids.

"They are stuck indoors everyday doing school work and stuck in a lockdown.

"Hopefully by the summer the lockdown will have ended and the kids can enjoy the summer outside with their friends.

Chris Tk is concerned about how it would be staffed.

He said: “Who is going to teach?

“Teachers salary runs September term to July.

“Teachers are working their socks off, teaching in school, online and with old fashioned pen and paper.

“They don’t get the credit they deserve to be honest.”

Sharon Elizabeth Hamilton doesn’t think it would work..

She said: “Do you really think most children will want to learn or have the right attitude towards ' learning' if they are to come into school during holiday time?”I work in a primary school and it has been quite stressful, learning new ways of teaching children and adapting, for both staff and pupils. It's sad they have missed out on a 'normal' teaching environment but their mental welfare is equally important.”

Others have mixed feelings about the idea.

Lindsay Clark, said: “No. But I do think extra after school sessions should be available in core subjects for those who want it.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.