'The legal requirement to wear a face covering in most indoor places and on public transport is due to be replaced with general safety guidance for people. From that point (currently scheduled to be the 18th April) schools should apply the approach within that workplace guidance to the use of face coverings by staff and secondary pupils in indoor communal areas in schools. In practice this means that the wearing of face coverings will not be mandatory, but it will remain encouraged in indoor communal areas in line with the workplace guidance. Any individual who wishes to wear a face covering in a school setting should continue to be supported to do so. As previously, careful attention should be given to the requirements of individuals with additional support needs when implementing this measure.'
As such, the use of face coverings by secondary pupils will not be mandatory, but it will remain encouraged in indoor communal areas.
Should any further updated guidance, either from the Scottish Government or West Lothian Council, become available, this will be circulated to you.
Please also see further letter below from Jason Leitch National Clinical Director.
