Pupils won’t need to socially distance from each other

Children in South Lanarkshire will not have to physically distance themselves from other pupils when they return to school on August 12.

New scientific advice published by the Scottish Government outlined the“best and safest way”to reopen schools provided coronavirus continues to be suppressed.

The government’s Coronavirus Advisory Sub-group on Education and Children’s Issues which includes academics from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Strathclyde Universities as well as representatives from Education Scotland and Public Health Scotland - found that“the balance of the evidence suggests that no distancing should be required between children in primary schools”.

High school pupils also won’t need to distance from each other even though the evidence was “less clear”.

Adults will have to keep two metres apart from each other and from pupils from different households.

Teachers may also need to wear face coverings if they can’t keep two metres from pupils or other staff.

Large gatherings such as school assemblies will be put on hold for the time being and pupils will be expected to stay within the same groups throughout the day where possible.

Strict hygiene measures will be in place and everyone entering a school will have to wash/ sanitise their hands.

A“zero tolerance”approach will be taken with anyone showing coronavirus symptoms and strict compliance with NHS Test and Protect procedures will be expected.

Pupils also won’t be expected to wear face coverings or social distance when travelling on school transport - but ministers are expected to encourage everyone who can to travel to class on foot or bike.

Pupils who travel on public transport will be expected to follow current guidance to wear face coverings.

Education Secretary John Swinney said:“this scientific advice will inform the way schools can re-open safely from 11 August, if infection rates continue to remain low.

“The Education Recovery Group which comprises local authorities, parent representatives and teachers’organisations and trades unions, has been developing plans for how to open schools safely for everyone.

“We are considering this advice as we develop comprehensive guidance which will give confidence to our school communities that the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and staff is ensured as we welcome them back.

“Ensuring the highest quality education for our young people, in a safe environment, must be a priority for us all and I know that everyone is committed to make sure that children’s education is not adversely affected in the longer term.”