Coronavirus: Education staff offered on demand testing and face coverings could become mandatory

Education staff in Scotland can now request a coronavirus test if they think they have been at risk from infection.

After an announcement from the Scottish government, education staff including teachers, nursery and other school staff can ask for a test if they are concerned, even if they are showing no symptoms.

.@NicolaSturgeon says staff and pupils in Scotland’s secondary schools may be asked to wear face coverings when they are moving around the school, with the government currently consulting on the issue with teachers and councils.

Latest – https://t.co/SCIBZcfHBK pic.twitter.com/7UHWoA87Ed

— BBC Scotland News (@BBCScotlandNews) August 24, 2020

CONCERN

The announcement came from Education Secretary John Swinney after Scottish pupils began returning to school earlier in August and education unions raised concerns over staff safety.

The increase in access to testing is part of £135m in coronavirus support being offered to schools.

FACE COVERINGS

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has also announced that the use of face coverings in corridors and communal areas in secondary schools will be introduced in Scotland. This does not include classrooms where physical distancing is made easier.

The announcement is in response to new guidance from the World Health Organization.

In her daily coronavirus briefing, the First Minister said that the government is in the final stages of consultations with teachers and councils about having pupils wear face coverings when moving between classes.

Currently, the use of face coverings in schools is voluntary, but some schools are already advising staff and pupils to wear them in enclosed spaces.

How do you feel about going back to school? Let us know on Facebook.