Despite it being a long time ago I can still recall taking the children to school for the very first time.

We moved to Devon in September 1973 but our house in Horrabridge was not ready for us to move into until Christmas Eve.

Our temporary accommodation was in Plympton. However we did not want our son to do one term there and then start all over again in the second term. This proved quite a logistical problem.

My day started driving over the moors to Horrabridge Primary School then back to Plymouth to work before returning to Horrabridge at the end of the school day to take my son back to Plympton before returning yet again to Marjons for ongoing lecture commitments.

This proved very stressful for a young five year old moving house, losing all his young friends and joining a school where he knew nobody. Thus his early school experience was far from enjoyable as he had to adjust to a different home and a strange school environment. Like many children he survived and despite this daunting beginning he ended up as a primary school headteacher.

The world had turned full circle. Hopefully many parents have had a far less stressful time as they watch their precious little ones take their first steps on the educational ladder.

Certainly times have changed and not necessarily for the better. We taught our children to read before they went to school. Today it has been reported that some five year olds when handed a book use their fingers to try to scroll as if it is a screen.

Fortunately mobile phones were not available when our two were young. Our society has become far more threatening. Three young girls were brutally killed attending a dance class. Thus schools now have no choice but to be far more security conscious. A range of measures now seem essential. Schools effectively lock themselves in during school time.

Adult access is strictly monitored.Here we go again at the start of the new school year with lots of real concerns about just what the future holds for the up and coming generation. Will their ten-year educational journey fit them for a productive life post 16? Will teaching be able to attract bright dynamic able staff? Will there be jobs for them when they leave school? Parents today face lots of concerns as they wait at the school gates to greet their young children after their first day at school.

Declining birth rates has resulted in school closures meaning longer journey times often out of the neighbourhood. Staff turnover is high such that young children must constantly adjust to a fresh adult face.

Reflecting on my own past waiting at the end of the school day with other parents I remember a relaxed atmosphere. There were no real security issues to worry about. Staff changes were minimal and everybody knew each other. Children emerged in a happy frame of mind to skip down school lane.

Village primary schools provide a welcoming environment for their new charges who often handle day one far better than their nervous parents. Having survived this day just prepare for day one at ‘the big school’. Then it will be – Here we go again!