No doubt you will have heard that the government have published updated guidance on the use of face coverings in schools, following the World Health Organisation’s advice that “children aged 12 and over should wear a mask under the same conditions as adults, in particular when they cannot guarantee at least a 1-metre distance from others.”
In addition to the implementation of a system of control, the details of which can be found in our COVID Risk Assessment, schools now have the discretion to require face coverings in communal areas if they believe that it is right in their particular circumstances, for example, where there is no possibility of maintaining social distancing.
The layout of our school estate makes it particularly difficult to maintain social distancing when staff and pupils are moving around the premises, and therefore we will require students and staff to wear face coverings whilst moving around the school.
It will not be necessary to wear face coverings in the classroom, where protective measures already mean the risks are lower, and where they could inhibit learning.
It is vital that face coverings are worn correctly and so we are providing clear instructions on how to put on, remove, store and dispose of face coverings.
Parents and carers are encouraged to visit the September 2020 Back to School information on our website with their children to remind them of some of the other changes we have put in place. The government also has information and practical guidance to help parents and carers plan for their children’s return to school at gov.uk/backtoschool. This includes latest updates to the guidance for parents and carers on what they need to know about early years providers, schools and colleges in the autumn term.
M. Snape
Headteacher
