St. Brendan's Boys Primary School

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Nov 2021

Mask wearing at school

FAQs Primary Schools and Masks 6 December 2021

St-Brendans-PS-School_Response_Plan_Updated-07-12-2021

Please see DES FAQ which were issued yesterday along with our updated COVID response plan 6-12-21
The Department of Education announced unexpectedly last week new requirements in relation to mask wearing indoors for pupils from 3rd to 6th class in primary schools.
Our school has adopted a pragmatic approach where Pupils were free to start wearing masks in these classes and indeed most have done so.
Some families of pupils with medical issues and complex needs have already contacted the school regarding individual exemptions which are required in the best interests of each child. And these have been supported.
Some points that I would feel important to note:
• This applies to boys in 3rd / 4th / 5th and 6th classes.
• The guidance notes and letters come directly from NPHET and DES.
• Pupils will only be required to wear masks INDOORS at school and on bus transport.They do not wear masks for PE or eating lunch.
• • School will have an emergency supply of disposable masks but cannot guarantee supply each day.
• The DES envisage this as a short term measure which will be reviewed in February.

Thanks as always for your support and continued co–operation.
Together we will get through these challenging times.
Keep safe, Niall Crofton ( Principal Teacher )

Dear Parents/Guardians,
The Department of Education announced yesterday evening ( 30/11/21) new requirements in relation to mask wearing indoors for pupils from 3rd to 6th class in primary schools.
Our school will be adopting a pragmatic approach. Pupils are welcome to start wearing masks in these classes from today and indeed most have done so and from next Monday we aim to implement the requirements.
This will give families time to seek medical advice if they feel the need to do so. Please find further information from the Department of Education attached.
Some points that I would feel important to note:
• This applies to boys in 3rd / 4th / 5th and 6th classes.
• The guidance notes and letters come directly from NPHET and DES.
• Pupils will only be required to wear masks INDOORS at school and on bus transport.
• Facemask safety/ storage will be an important element of this. Boys will be supplied with their own ziplock freezerbag tomorrow.
• School will have an emergency supply of disposable masks but cannot guarantee supply each day.
• Parents enquiring about medical / SEN exemption must contact the school and have all documentation sorted by Monday 6th December.
• The DES envisage this as a short term measure which will be reviewed in February.
Thanks as always for your support and continued co–operation.
Together we will get through these challenging times.
Keep safe,
Niall Crofton
Principal Teacher
Face Covering for Primary PupilsCMO Letter to schools FINAL_Guidance on the use of face coverings in Primary schools 301121 Final (00000002)