PUPILS at a Southend school must wear face masks in corridors and canteens when they return as an “added precaution” against Covid-19. 

Secondary students from Cecil Jones Academy will now wear a face covering when moving around the building in Eastern Avenue, Southend, as well as when using staircases, entrances and exits and communal areas.

Government guidance gives headteachers the discretion to make a decision where social distancing cannot be safely managed.

The guidance states face coverings in schools should be mandatory if a town is subject to a local lockdown or coronavirus restrictions caused by a spike in cases. 

Anita Johnson, chief executive officer at the Loxford School Trust, which runs Cecil Jones, said: “We understand there is concern as we are returning and although it is not yet mandatory, we feel that as an additional precaution it will be wise.

“At this present moment, we do not expect children to wear masks in classrooms. Masks for secondary pupils must be provided from home - please can you ensure that your child has a face covering or mask.

“There may be some children who are unable to do so due to a medical condition, in this instance can you contact the school and we will make arrangements for your child.”

Cedar Hall School in Hart Road, Thundersley, will also follow the same approach.

Public Health England says face coverings are not necessarily recommended because children, young people and staff are mixing in consistent groups or “bubbles”.

It fears incorrect use of masks may accidentally increase the risk of transmitting the virus along with potential communication problems that wearing masks could bring- although guidance is set to be kept under review.

Westcliff High School for Girls is urging pupils  to bring face masks with them and staff may choose to ask pupils to wear a mask, taking into account various risk factors including the risk to themselves. 

Students from Westcliff High School for Boys are welcome to wear a face mask in class. 

All pupils must wear a mask when exiting the site, in Kenilworth Gardens, at the end of the day, and students in different year groups may have to use them in events like unplanned emergency drills, where they’re likely to be in closer proximity for period of time.

If more comfortable, pupils are permitted to wear visors.

Jonathan Osborn, headteacher at the King Edmund School in Rochford, outlined his school’s policy on face masks, saying: “If a student wishes to wear a face mask it should be a settled choice for each day - a student should wear their face mask at all times inside the school building. 

“It may be removed at break-times, but should be replaced when they re-enter the school.”