What consideration is the Minister giving to reintroducing the compulsory wearing of face masks in secondary schools in the run up to winter?
The Local Infection Control Decision Framework for schools sets out arrangements for the delivery of learning in schools enabling them to tailor interventions to reflect local risks and circumstances.
Face coverings are not routinely recommended where schools are at the framework’s “low” risk category (at alert level zero). Schools, working with their local authority and public health officials, may however introduce additional measures in response to local risks, including the use of face coverings in certain areas of the school. At the “very high” risk category, this includes in classrooms. Some schools, local authorities and regions have taken a decision to do so since the start of the autumn term in response to specific risks.
We have no plans to reinstate mandatory use of face coverings in the classroom across all secondary schools, given the flexibilities which the framework provides to schools to respond to the risk profile relevant to them. We continue to work closely with schools, local authorities, unions and other stakeholders on all school operational matters with the aim of securing the best outcomes for all learners whilst continuing to manage the risks of coronavirus.