Schools, colleges, early years all staying open during lockdown
When the national lockdown begins on 5 November, a major difference from the previous lockdown is that the Government has decided that all schools, colleges, and early years education providers, will remain open.
Schools continue to work with the Council to ensure they have plans and controls in place to remain open in as safe a way as possible.
Guidance on face coverings in schools for children from Year Seven has also now changed since the national lockdown began.
Unless exemptions apply, face coverings should now be worn by adults and pupils when moving around indoors in schools, in corridors or communal areas where social distancing is difficult. These pupils must also wear these when on public transport.
The Council is also advising parents and carers to wear face coverings when dropping off and picking up children from school.
The Government says that school attendance remains compulsory and the usual rules on school attendance apply.
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Our educational community has worked tirelessly to support children and young people since the start of the autumn term and have been incredibly busy supporting their communities over recent weeks.
“It is really important that all pupils continue to attend school. We know that children have really enjoyed being back at school and have already made tremendous progress.
“I would like to thank all the staff who work in our schools for their continued support and dedication to our young people.
“Where children do need to self-isolate, we thank residents for helping ensure they do so and help prevent further spread of the virus.”
Note; This article was updated on 5 Nov to take account of the change in Government guidance on face coverings in schools
