What are the Covid rules in schools and will they stay open this term?

Face coverings will no longer be compulsory in England's secondary school classrooms from 20 January.

The announcement was made by the prime minister, as part of the easing of "Plan B" Covid measures.

What's happening this term?

All UK schools are expected to offer face-to-face teaching to every age group, and to provide effective online learning for pupils who are absent or isolating.

The specific Covid measures in place vary across the nations.

All school staff and secondary school pupils are asked to take two lateral flow tests (LFTs) a week (three in Wales).

19/01/22What are the Covid rules in schools and will they stay open this term?

Face coverings will no longer be compulsory in England's secondary school classrooms from 20 January.

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Thousands more Kent secondary and special school places will be needed over the next five years.

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Secondary school pupils in England returned from the Christmas break this week to new advice – to wear face coverings in lessons and to take lateral flow tests at school before heading into classrooms.

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Department for Education says 2022 will be a ‘transition year’