The Welsh Government has updated its guidance on the use of face coverings in schools. The guidance now states that face coverings should be worn:
The Welsh Government has updated its guidance on the use of face coverings in schools. The guidance now states that face coverings should be worn:
– in all areas outside the classroom by staff and pupils in secondary schools;
– on dedicated school transport for learners in year 7 and above;
– by visitors to all schools;
– by parents and carers who are dropping off and collecting children from all schools.
(This requirement does not apply to individuals with relevant medical conditions which constitute an exemption.)
To reduce the risk of transmission amongst parents/carers and relatives, please wear face coverings when dropping off and collecting your child(ren) from all schools and at any prearranged appointments at the school. Please also continue to maintain social distancing at the school gates. All of these actions will reduce risk and set a good example to pupils.
If you have a secondary school aged child, be aware that face coverings should now be worn by pupils in year 7 and above in all areas outside the classroom (including yard areas at break and lunch times and at other times of the day when pupils may be congregating in those areas – e.g., waiting to enter the school).
Face coverings should continue to be worn on dedicated school transport and public transport for year 7 and above. The requirement to wear a face covering does not apply to PE lessons or to pupils with additional learning needs or relevant medical conditions which constitute an exemption.
The requirement to wear a face covering does not apply to primary school-age pupils, unless of course you wish for your child to wear a face covering and they are able to do so safely.
Please follow these guidelines and encourage your child to follow theirs too.
Along with regular hand washing/sanitising and social distancing, this will reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 at school as far as possible.
Welsh Government guidance on this matter has been strengthened to keep you and your families as safe as possible. Guidance is based on new advice from Welsh Government’s Technical Advisory Group as more is discovered about the way COVID-19 is transmitted.
Your support is essential in ensuring that risks are mitigated so that we can keep your child and our school communities safe. This cannot be achieved without your help and support and it is imperative that we help our schools.
Thank you for your continued assistance in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Gaynor Davies
Director of Education and Inclusion Services (RCT)
Mountain Ash Comprehensive School
