Dear Parent/Carer
Re: Use of face coverings in schools
The government updated its 'Guidance for full opening: schools' on the evening of 28 August; this guidance confirms that the 'government is not recommending universal use of face coverings in all schools'.
However, secondary schools have now been given the discretion to recommend the wearing of face coverings for pupils (and others) in communal areas outside the classroom where the layout of the buildings makes it difficult to maintain social distancing, e.g. in narrow corridors.
Having reviewed the guidance with governors we have decided to give pupils (and staff) the option to wear a face covering, should they wish, when moving around the school site and in communal areas only. Face coverings should not be worn in lessons.
It is vital that face coverings are worn correctly and we would politely ask parents/carers to ensure that they have given clear instructions to their child(ren) on how to use them safely in accordance with guidance:
Safe wearing of face coverings requires cleaning of hands before and after touching - including to remove and put them on - and the safe storage of them in individual, sealable plastic bags between use. If a child cannot manage this independently, then it is advisable that they do not currently wear a face covering as this could inadvertently increase the risk of transmission.
Face coverings worn in school should be plain and not have patterns or insignia etc that might cause offence or distraction, please.
Further information can be found at:
We will keep this practice under review in line with formal guidance and our broader risk assessment.
We are very much looking forward to welcoming the pupils back to school over the coming days.
Yours sincerely
Ms S F Spivey
CEO, Headteacher