WITH schools returning from the Easter break this week, county leaders are reminding parents that their children should wear face coverings in the classroom at all times unless exempt.
Government advice is that face coverings should be worn in secondary schools and college classrooms, but not primary or in early learning settings.
Guidance also recommends they should be worn by staff and pupils when moving around the school building, such as in corridors and communal areas.
It is also encouraged that children and staff wear face coverings during school activities where social distancing cannot be easily maintained.
Sarah Wilkins, director of education at Worcestershire Children First, said: “This ongoing advice, together with protective measures such as regular hand-washing and ventilation, will help reduce transmission.
“And, as twice-weekly rapid testing is established and becomes routine for pupils and parents, we can anticipate a further reduction in transmission and our children can continue their education in the classroom.
“We acknowledge some children and young people are exempt from wearing face coverings and we expect schools to continue to be sensitive to those needs.”
The requirement for face coverings to be worn by pupils in year 7 and above when travelling on public transport remains unchanged.
It is expected they will no longer be required to be worn in classrooms from May 17 should the government’s roadmap stay on track.
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