Pupils set for return to school

MORE than 20,000 pupils across the region will return to school full-time for the first time this year on Monday.

Those in S1 and S6 will be required to wear face coverings inside school buildings and are being encouraged to take part in twice-weekly coronavirus testing.

Two-metre distancing requirements in place in secondary schools before the Easter holidays have been scrapped.

However, families have been reminded of the safety measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 when Tayside schools reopen a week after those in Fife.

Many pupils are accustomed to wearing masks in class, with the level three guidance for S4-S6 issued last autumn being recommended for S1-S3 by Tayside schools.

Scottish Government guidance has now been strengthened and states face coverings should be worn at all times by staff and young people in secondary school classrooms, communal areas and when moving about the school.

Individual schools have put their own safety measures in place.

Harris Academy in Dundee has designated separate entrances for each of its house groups, recorded seating plans and introduced a staggered end to the school day.

Dundee City Council’s children and families convener Stewart Hunter urged families to continue following rules to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“This is a huge step forward for our secondary pupils and they will be excited to return to school full-time following long closures,” he said.

Secondary school pupils who are shielding have been advised to remain at home until April 26.

Return to school.