Slemish College in Ballymena is encouraging pupils to wear face masks on a daily basis.
While the school says it’s not mandatory, pupils are however asked to wear a mask when collecting GCSE and A Level results.
Meanwhile, Belfast Royal Academy principal Mrs Woods said in a statement that face masks for pupils, staff and visitors would be mandatory.
She said provision will be made for pupils and members of staff for whom this safety measure presents a difficulty. However, face masks will not need to be worn when the pupils are exercising, eating or drinking or playing outside in the playground.
“The school will provide a reusable mask in school colours free of charge for every pupil and member of staff. We have suggested that parents and staff purchase an additional face mask to facilitate the recommended regular washing,
“The guidance is designed to ensure the safe operation of the school and to protect all members of our community, particularly those who are vulnerable. These precautions take account of the nature of the school site and our large pupil and staff population. We are aware that the Northern Ireland Chief Scientific Adviser, Professor Ian Young, has recommended to DE that “there may be some benefit to the use of face coverings by older pupils where social distancing cannot be maintained,” she said.
Mrs Woods said the health and well-being of the school community is of paramount importance.
“Schools are an essential part of society and children’s lives and the arrangements we are making are designed to ensure we are in a position to welcome all pupils and staff back to school.
“We do not anticipate any discipline issues as feedback from our parent body since the communication was issued yesterday has been overwhelmingly positive. The school community is a genuinely caring environment.
“We are confident that our students and staff will fully understand that these measures are designed to provide the best care, not just for those in school, but also for our families and this initiative will therefore be supported with the same generous spirit which typifies the attitude of those in this school,” she added.
Mrs Woods said the mandatory wearing of face masks, will be kept under regular review.
As the NI Executive recently announced that face coverings should be worn in places where social distancing is…
Posted by Slemish College on Tuesday, 11 August 2020