Parents across South Lanarkshire are being reminded of the Covid-19 preventative measures in place in schools this forthcoming term despite Government restrictions being eased.
The local authority's executive director of education, Tony McDaid, has written to every school in the county to allay any fears or concerns that may exist as pupils prepare to return to school on Monday.
Mr McDaid is assuring parents that certain social distancing measures will remain in place, including no large gatherings or assemblies being held in school for the time being, as well as pupils in secondary schools still requiring to wear facemasks whilst in class and in communal areas and for those aged 12 and over on school transport.
All staff and secondary pupils are still being urged to carry out twice weekly lateral flow device testing.
Enhanced cleaning will also be carried out in schools and hand sanitisers are still being provided with clear signage around every building to reinforce the infection prevention and control measures in place.
The letter also states that physical distancing bubbles are now no longer required, but schools are being encouraged to continue to carry out physical distancing measures where possible to minimise any risk.
Whole classes or groupings of pupils, aged five to 18, now no longer need to self-isolate for 10 days, so long as they remain asymptomatic and have a negative PCR. Under fives do not need to self isolate as long as they remain asymptomatic but there is no mandatory need for them to have a negative PCR.
In the letter, which is being issued to parents via their school app and social media pages, Mr McDaid concluded: "The past 18 months have been an unprecedented and challenging time for everyone. However, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks and appareciation for all you have done to support your child's learning during recent times."
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