The second lockdown begins today, and there are new rules for some schools regarding face masks.
Early years settings, schools, further education colleges and universities will be remaining open during the month-long lockdown, as the government say it is ‘very important’ children and young people attend – to support their wellbeing, education and to help working parents.
The government added that students and staff in high schools and colleges must now wear face masks when they are moving around the building.
The Department for Education has confirmed the rules.
The rules are different for students dependent on age. Primary school children will be not be required to wear a face mask.
This means for those in primary school and education settings for year 6 and below there is no changes to the existing rules. Staff and visitors do not have to wear face coverings in primary schools.
However, it is recommended that when social distancing is not possible between adults, they should use face coverings for both staff and visitors.
In high school (year 7 and above), students and adults should wear face covering when moving around the building, outside of classrooms and anywhere social distancing cannot be easily maintained.
Some individuals will be exempt from the rules, and adults and pupils should continue to be sensitive to those rules.
Additionally, the rules for early year settings remains the same. Staff and visitors are not required to wear face masks however it is advised where social distancing cannot be maintained.
In out-of-school settings, the rules remain in line with current Covid-19 guidance. Face coverings should be used where teaching, training or activity is taking place with children over 11 and staff.
Face coverings should be worn by adults and students in further education colleges when moving around, outside of classrooms, in corridors and communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained.
Moreover, any dedicated transport use in these settings requires face coverings.
You can find out more here.
