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<p>Following the Step 3 announcement on 10 May, the Department published updated guidance
for schools, which included updated advice on face coverings. The guidance can be
found here: <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/actions-for-schools-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak"
target="_blank">https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/actions-for-schools-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak</a>.</p><p>As
the guidance outlines, from 17 May face coverings are no longer recommended for pupils
and students in classrooms or communal areas in schools. Face coverings are also no
longer recommended for staff in classrooms. The Department recommends that in all
schools face coverings should be worn by staff and visitors in situations outside
of classrooms where social distancing is not possible.</p><p>Ahead of Step 3, the
Department worked closely with Public Health England (PHE) and the Cabinet Office
to consider a range of evidence, balancing both health and educational considerations.
This included the latest available education data, latest data analysis on case rates
in secondary school age children and the broader COVID-19 epidemiological position,
as well as stakeholder intelligence from schools and further education (FE) colleges
on their experiences of wearing face coverings in classrooms and any perceived effect
on teaching, education, and communication.</p><p>The epidemiological picture overall
has continued to improve since the full reopening of schools and FE colleges on 8
March and cases overall have continued to decline in the UK. As the four tests have
been met it was appropriate to remove the recommendation to wear face coverings in
schools. This was supported by PHE.</p><p>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. In all cases, any educational
drawbacks should be balanced with the benefits of managing transmission.</p><p>Where
head teachers have concerns on the use of face coverings in response to a particular
local outbreak or variant of concern, they should seek the advice of their local Director
of Public Health who will advise on whether the reintroduction of face coverings for
pupils, students or staff may be needed for a temporary period.</p><p>Our policy on
face coverings and the system of controls is kept under review and is informed by
the latest scientific and medical advice from PHE.</p>
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