IT is now mandatory for all adults and pupils to wear face coverings in communal areas in secondary schools, says Warrington Borough Council.

In a letter to parents and carers, Professor Steven Broomhead, chief executive of Warrington Borough Council, cllr Matt Smith, cabinet member for children’s services and Paula Worthington, director for education, early help and SEND, set out the changes to schools and educational settings following new coronavirus restrictions for the borough.

The letter reads: "In the same way Warrington is not immune from the virus, our schools and other educational settings have seen positive cases amongst pupils and staff.

"Affected schools have acted swiftly, and all necessary steps have been taken in line with Public Health England (PHE) advice, alongside the expertise of our local Public Health team

" As a result, a number of our schools have had to send class bubbles home to self-isolate as a necessary pre-caution.

"We have been in constant conversation with our school leaders and now, as part of a joint response to the current situation, we will be introducing further precautionary measures in our schools."

These include:

• All adults to wear a face covering when visiting or entering school, childcare premises and other educational settings

• Only one adult should enter the premises for drop-off and pick-up

• Arrive and leave promptly when dropping off or collecting your child - do not congregate and maintain social distancing

• Talk to your children about the risks of congregating in groups outside schools, and mixing with other schools and go directly home

• All adults and pupils should wear face coverings in all communal areas in secondary schools - this is mandatory except for those with an exemption

• School staff should wear face coverings when they come out onto the playground during drop off and pick up times

• Those travelling on dedicated school transport should adhere to the mandatory wearing of face coverings that applies to public transport

The letter continues: "Importantly, if you or your child is displaying any symptoms of coronavirus, however mild, including a high temperature, new, persistent cough or loss of normal taste or smell, self-isolate and book a coronavirus test immediately.

"Please remember, however, that you should only book a test if you have symptoms.

"You can find out more at warrington.gov.uk/coronavirus.

"I know that you will, with us, want to do everything you can to keep our schools open and safe.

"The co-operation of all parents/carers, children and young people in following these additional measures, along with maintaining social distancing and regular hand washing and/or use of hand sanitiser, is essential."