Schools’ reopening guidance issued for Northern Ireland

The ‘guidance to support safe working in educational settings’ is designed to keep both children and staff safe while the coronavirus threat remains an issue in Northern Ireland.

The 13-page document includes links to further training resources, including a video on social distancing and the importance of hand washing.

It covers key areas such as the circumstances in which personal protective equipment should be used – and measures to address concerns in respect of children with underlying medical, or special educational, needs.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Education said: “Keeping our children and staff safe in educational settings is of vital importance. This guidance applies to staff working in all educational settings in Northern Ireland, together with the children, young people and pupils who attend these settings and their parents or carers.

“There are important actions that everyone can take during the coronavirus outbreak to help prevent the spread of the virus in educational settings. Good hand and respiratory hygiene, including covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, are essential.”

The guidance also stresses the importance of minimising contact with those who are unwell.

The spokeswoman added: “We will continue to provide updated guidance and advice to schools as we move towards the eventual reopening of schools.”

A copy of the guidance to support safe working in educational settings is available on the Department of Education website here