Teachers union NASWUT has called for clarity around the wearing of face masks in Northumberland schools.

It comes after the closure of Ellington Primary and the partial closure of Malvin Academy and Morpeth Road Primary School due to Covid-19.

Steve Bird, negotiating secretary for NASWUT, said: “The Government guidance around the wearing of face coverings in schools does not go far enough and if we are to keep our schools open, keep our pupils and staff safe, the Government needs to use much clearer language around the issue”.  

Coun. Scott Dickinson, deputy leader of the Northumberland Labour Group, added: “Teaching unions are best placed to advise how best to protect teachers, support staff and students.

“I would urge the Government to ensure that they listen and act on the demands of the union representing its members to ensure schools can safely stay open and support Britain get children’s education back on track.”

Cath McEvoy-Carr, executive director for adult and children’s services at Northumberland County Council said the county’s schools had robust safety measures in place and that cases were currently low.