Coronavirus (COVID 19): Advisory Sub-Group on Education and Children’s Issues minutes: 25 August 2020

Items and actions

1.  The sub-group considered updated advice on face coverings, concluding that in relation to school transport face covering advice should be brought into line with that already in place for wider public transport.  The sub-group was made aware of guidance being developed by Education Scotland and Young Scot explaining the changes to young people. 

2. The sub-group discussed fomite (inanimate surfaces or objects) transmission in relation to the marking of jotters and potential delays in returning completed work to pupils due to fears around possible virus transmission.  It was agreed to seek further advice on this issue from the main COVID-19 Advisory Group.

3.  The sub-group discussed aspects of the reopening of further and higher education for senior school pupils attending these institutions.  It noted the need for an approach that recognises situations where risks arise and the need for positive actions in situations where physical distancing cannot be sustained.  Detailed comments are to be fed into the Education Recovery Group. 

4. Consideration was given to a proposal to support the sub-group in systematically reviewing recent research evidence on COVID-19 as it relates to children and young people.  Public Health Scotland will gather and assess recent research, providing the sub-group with regular summaries. 

relates to children and young people.  Public Health Scotland will gather and assess recent research, providing the sub-group with regular summaries.