UPDATE – Government COVID-19 Guidance for Schools

Three Leigh UTC students are pictured sitting at a desk discussing work, whilst using Apple Mac computers.

Dear Parents/Carers,

 

Further to the announcement by the Prime Minister on the 10 May and the subsequent guidance for schools on face coverings in education ‘From 17 May, in line with Step 3 of the roadmap, face coverings will no longer be recommended for pupils in classrooms or communal areas in all schools.

Face coverings will also no longer be recommended for staff in classrooms. Consequently from 17 May onwards your child is no longer required to wear a face covering at The Leigh UTC. Please note that should you feel that it is beneficial for your son/daughter to continue wearing a face covering, that is perfectly acceptable.

The guidance further states that ‘In all schools we continue to recommend that face coverings should be worn by staff and visitors in situations outside of classrooms where social distancing is not possible (for example, when moving around and communal areas).’  Therefore, staff have been advised of this requirement and will use their discretion accordingly.

Regarding other current restrictions:

  • Classroom layout and ventilation procedures will not change.
  • Entrance, exits. split breaks, lunches along with one way systems will remain in place.

The guidance states that ‘Children and young people aged 11 and over must still wear a face covering on public transport. In accordance with advice from PHE, they must also wear a face covering when travelling on dedicated transport to secondary school or college. This does not apply to children and young people who are exempt from wearing face coverings.’  Therefore, you will need to ensure that your child is provided with a face mask should they be using public transport.

Thank you once again for your continued support with this as we continue to review and implement measures to ensure all our staff and students remain as safe as possible during this time. 

 

Yours faithfully,

 

Steve Leahey

Principal