Updated guidance clarifies rules for headteachers, stressing that all secondary students must wear masks in corridors and communal areas
All secondary pupils will have to wear face coverings in school corridors and communal spaces from tomorrow (Thurs, Nov 5), updated government guidance says, the TES reports.
Schools will have until Monday at the latest to put the rule in place, the DFE document adds.
The guidance reads: “Face coverings should be worn by adults and pupils when moving around the premises, outside of classrooms, such as in corridors and communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained”.
“We would expect schools to ensure any changes required in light of national restrictions are in place as soon as practically possible, and by Monday 9 November at the latest.”
The ruling replaces previous guidance which said only schools in areas of “High” or “Very High” Covid-alert areas must enforce the rule.
Headteachers in other areas had previously been allowed to use their discretion over whether to enforce facemasks in corridors.
The updated guidance comes after headteachers called for an “urgent review” of guidance for schools in the light on the second national lockdown in England.