Secondary pupils told to use face coverings

Pupils in Renfrewshire’s secondary schools will have to wear face coverings while walking between classes from August 31.

The announcement by the Scottish Government yesterday comes as a number of schools have had confirmed cases of Covid-19 following a return to the classroom on August 17.

Castlehead High School in Paisley was the fourth school and first secondary school in Renfrewshire to confirm a case.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde confirmed last week that pandemic trace and protect experts have been carrying out investigations at the high school.

Three primaries - Todholm Primary in Paisley, Wallace Primary in Elderslie and St James’ Primary in Renfrew - confirmed coronavirus positive cases within 48 hours.

Renfrewshire Council confirmed masks wi l l be worn in schools from August 31 and that parents would be informed of the changes.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also confirmed pupils in Scotland will have to wear face masks on dedicated school transport and when moving between classes.

Kenny Fella, Renfrewshire secretary for the Education Institute for Scotland (EIS) said: “EIS Renfrewshire welcomes the decision on the requirement for pupils aged 12 or over to wear face coverings in school communal areas.

“This will assist in helping to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading within schools and is a positive step in light of the positive case that was confirmed at Castlehead High School.

A Renfrewshire Council spokeswoma n said: “We acknowledge the announcement on face coverings in schools.

“We will update parents as soon as we can.”