A number of Christmas traditions in Irish schools will be banned this year thanks to the pandemic.
The usual chorus of large choirs will not be allowed along with wind and brass instruments also on the naughty list.
Additionally, carol singing will be allowed but only "whilst maintaining social distancing and within normal pod structures can take place outdoors."
The Department of Education has sent out guidelines to schools regarding Christmas celebrations and gatherings before the holidays, the Irish Mirror reports.
The Department says that schools can share small performances with other classes via online means such as "video-conferencing facilities".
Teachers have also been told the exchanging of gifts between kids is "allowable" but strict rules will accompany it.
A letter sent to teachers today states: "Pupils/students often like to share Christmas cards and small gifts.
"This is allowable but needs to be undertaken in a controlled manner, such that it does not involve pupils/students moving and interacting outside of their usual pods or contacts.
"Any cards/ gifts would ideally be given to a staff member directly, and then distributed by a staff member to pupils/students in a controlled way. There should be a strong emphasis on hand hygiene at all times."
For secondary schools, the Department recommends Christmas exams take place in individual classrooms rather than larger assembly halls.
The advice states: "Schools have their own arrangements for how these examinations are usually organised.
"In implementing these arrangements this year, schools should continue to implement all public health guidelines in terms of physical distancing, wearing of masks, hand-hygiene and sanitisation to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19.
"Schools should consider administering end-of-term examinations to individual class groups in their classrooms rather than in large assembly-style groupings.
"Teachers are reminded that they can continue to handle copybooks or exam papers completed by the students but there must be a strong emphasis on hand hygiene at all times."
