Question reference: S6W-01824
- Asked by: Douglas Lumsden, MSP for North East Scotland, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 23 July 2021
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Current status: Answered by Shirley-Anne Somerville on 9 August 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on facemasks being mandatory in schools, and, in light of the challenges with communication and participation faced by pupils with hearing difficulties, whether it will consider providing an exemption, in time for the start of the new academic year, for classrooms in which there is a pupil with hearing difficulties.
Answer
The current guidance, updated on 3 August Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on reducing the risks in schools - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) , remains that face coverings will continue to be worn by staff in communal areas in all schools, and in classrooms by staff and pupils in secondary schools, for up to 6 weeks. However, I am acutely aware that some young people find this challenging. Therefore the Scottish Government guidance on face coverings , which is referenced in guidance for schools, does set out some exemptions, including when communicating with someone who relies on lip reading and facial expressions to communicate.
The decision to retain the use of face coverings in schools has been taken after very careful consideration, especially with regard to face coverings in classrooms. But at the moment, our judgement remains that this is the best way to protect children, young people and staff in the school environment. This approach is in line with the latest recommendations of the Advisory Sub-group on Education and Children’s issues and is kept under regular review in light of emerging scientific evidence and advice.