Council shares guidelines for safe return of pupils

Council chiefs urged families with any concerns to come forward as they yesterday unveiled guidelines for the return of pupils to schools across Moray.

Parents have also been urged to play their part in preventing the spread of Covid-19 by keeping children at home if they display any symptoms.

The local authority is providing guidance for families ahead of the return to schools and nurseries on August 12 amid what it calls the “new normal”.

Youngsters will not have to wear face coverings in school, although it says some staff may choose to wear them.

Thorough cleaning routines have been implemented for nurseries and settings to support the prevention of the spread of Covid-19.

There will be hand sanitiser stations present on entry and exit and where necessary throughout the buildings where hand washing is not possible.

One-way systems may be in place around schools and signs will assist children to navigate round buildings.

And at lunch times, pupils will be told when and where to go.

There may also be different toilets for different classes.

In secondary schools, identified year groups may be allowed to leave school premises at lunchtime.

There will be no assemblies or parents’ evenings for now.

Face coverings are mandatory on public transport, and social distancing remains.

Moray Council’s head of education, Vivienne Cross, said: “We ask that parents and carers familiarise themselves and their children with this guidance as far as possible before the start of term and do contact your school with any further questions.”