The Welsh Government has updated its operational guidance on the
use of face coverings in secondary schools and colleges.
The guidance now states that face coverings should be worn:
- in all areas outside the classroom by staff and learners in
secondary schools and colleges
- on dedicated school and college transport for learners in
year 7 and up
- by visitors to all schools and colleges, including parents
and carers dropping off and picking up children
The move follows the publication of SAGE evidence and a recent TAG report.
Education Minister said: “It is vital that young people, parents,
adults and the workforce feel confident that all measures are
being taken to ensure the educational environments are as safe as
possible.
“We have been clear that we will keep every policy under review
and will continue to follow scientific advice. The policy we are
announcing today does just that.
“The new guidance is simple to follow, easier to administer and
ensures that there is a consistent policy across Wales. We have
already announced funding of £2.3m to support the purchasing of
face coverings in secondary schools and colleges.
“Social distancing and washing hands remain the most important
measures that everyone in Wales must continue to take. Wearing
face coverings can complement these measures, ensuring we are
doing everything we can to keep ourselves and others safe.
“Everyone in Wales has an important part to play in helping to
prevent the spread of coronavirus and keep each other safe. This
includes staying out of each other’s homes, except in very
limited circumstances, limiting how many different people we
meet, maintaining social distancing and washing hands regularly”.
“We will be working with schools and colleges to help reinforce
the messages to pupils, parents and staff on the importance of
taking responsibility to help save lives and protect our NHS”.
The Welsh Government’s policy for face coverings in classrooms
remains the same.
In classrooms where contact groups exist and other control
measures are in place, the marginal benefit that may be gained by
the use of face coverings has to be balanced with the likely
negative impact on the learning experience, including hearing and
social communication.
Prevention should be the primary aim of all control measures and
experience to date suggests that prevention measures have been
well understood and widely implemented across our schools and
colleges.
The revised guidance is available here:
https://gov.wales/operational-guidance-schools-and-settings-autumn-term-covid-19
