Based on the current state of the pandemic and the positive progress being made, it is no longer necessary to recommend the additional precautionary face covering measures put in place from the 8 March. From 17 May, in line with Step 3 of the government's roadmap, face coverings will no longer be recommended for pupils in classrooms or communal areas in all schools.

The reintroduction of face coverings for pupils, students or staff may be advised for a temporary period in response to particular localised outbreaks, including variants of concern.

Our students must still wear a face covering on school transport including both service and dedicated buses. This does not apply to children and young people who are exempt from wearing face coverings.

Exemptions

• Where face coverings are recommended there are some circumstances where people may not be able to wear a face covering. This includes (but is not limited to):
• people who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability
• where putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause people severe distress
• people speaking to or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading, clear sound or facial expressions to communicate
• to avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to the wearer or others ‒ including if it would negatively impact on people’s ability to exercise or participate in a strenuous activity