On 21 August, the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued a new statement regarding when children should wear face coverings. It now advises; “children aged 12 and over should wear a mask under the same conditions as adults, in particular when they cannot guarantee at least a 1-metre distance from others and there is widespread transmission in the area.”

As a result, the government has revised its guidance on face coverings. The advice applies to staff and pupils in Year 7 or above in England. While it is not recommending face coverings are necessary nationwide, schools will have the discretion to require them in communal areas.

Additionally, reflecting WHO’s new advice, the government will also advise additional measures are taken in areas where the transmission of the virus is high. In these areas, the government’s guidance will state face coverings should be worn by adults and pupils in secondary schools when moving around the school. For instance, in corridors and communal areas, where social distancing is less achievable. However, it will not be necessary to wear them in the classroom.

Commenting is Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson.

“Our priority is to get children back to school safely. At each stage, we have listened to the latest medical and scientific advice. We have therefore decided to follow the World Health Organisation’s new advice.

“In local lockdown areas, children in year 7 and above should wear face coverings in communal spaces. Outside of local lockdown areas face coverings won’t be required in schools; though schools will have the flexibility to introduce measures if they believe it is right in their specific circumstances. I hope these steps will provide parents, pupils and teachers with further reassurance.”

This new approach will also apply to further education colleges and will reflect in guidance to universities. However, it does not include children in primary schools, where the risks to children are lower. Updated guidance on face coverings in all education settings will be available shortly. It will come into effect from 1 September.

Although not necessary at the moment, if the rate of transmission increases across the whole country, it may be necessary to apply stricter guidance on face coverings in schools nationally.