DFE Guidance on the use of face coverings in primary schools and early years settings

DFE Guidance on the use of face coverings in primary schools and early years settings

From Monday 8 March, new advice applies to the use of face coverings by staff, pupils and students in schools and further education in England. Further information can be found in the guidance for schools, guidance for further education providers and guidance for early years and childcare providers.

In primary schools and early years settings it is recommended that staff and visitors wear face coverings where social distancing cannot be maintained between adults. These measures will be in place until Easter. As with all measures, we will keep this under review and update guidance as needed.

Children in primary schools do not need to wear a face covering and they should not be asked to wear one.

Dr Susan Hopkins, the Chief Medical Adviser for NHS Test and Trace, has said that “the consensus among educationalists, public health and clinical specialists is that it is not advisable for primary school children to wear face coverings. That is why Public Health England has not recommended to the Department for Education that they should be worn by primary pupils in the classroom. Children need to see facial expressions to develop their communication and language skills and practically, they can have difficulties keeping them on all day.”