Ahead of the phased opening of UK schools to more pupils from today, the Department for Education has released a film thanking all those who have kept learning going during the lockdown. Created by Havas London, it celebrates the hard work, dedication and ingenuity shown by teachers and parents alike as they’ve kept the nation’s children learning from home throughout the past 10 weeks.

The uplifting film has been created exclusively using real footage, captured organically by teachers and parents as they and their children have adapted to remote learning and home schooling. It showcases teachers’ passion for teaching and some of the innovative ways they have stayed connected with their classes, as well as the patience, enthusiasm and commitment shown by parents in unquestionably challenging circumstances. It also captures the enjoyment and gratitude of children themselves, who have adapted so brilliantly to new ways of learning at home.

It is set to George Ezra’s 'Pretty Shining People', after the Brit Award-winning artist – whose parents are both teachers – donated use of the song to this campaign for a nominal fee. It was created by Dan Cole and Andy Garnett.

Chloe Saklow, deputy director, teaching – customer and brand at the department for education says: “Thank you to everyone who has kept our children learning whilst schools have been closed. Teachers, parents and carers have all stepped up, helping to ensure our children’s education was able to continue. As schools open to more pupils, we wanted to celebrate these everyday heroes and say ‘thank you’ to them for all they have done.”

Vicki Maguire, chief creative officer at Havas London adds: “As far as I’m concerned, teachers are up there on the same pedestal as our emergency services. They do an extraordinary job at the best of times, and these are not the best of times. Their imagination, dedication and passion throughout has been properly inspiring. And here’s to all the honorary teachers, the home schooling heroes who have kept our kids learning – I don’t know how you’ve done it. This is our love letter to them all.”