Children in Surrey and Kent still struggle post-Covid

School leaders in Surrey and Kent report that children are still facing challenges from Covid-19 five years after the pandemic began. They note increased anxiety, school refusal, and mental health issues among students, particularly those with special educational needs. Headteachers emphasize the loss of routine during school closures has created ongoing learning gaps. Schools are focusing on improving social skills and language development to address these issues, especially for younger children. Educational psychologist Dr. Mickel Johnson highlights that the effects are most noticeable in children in Years One to Four, with increased anxiety and difficulties in social interactions observed in school settings.