Primary school students in 3rd class and above should maintain a social distance of one metre in the new academic year.
The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has issued interim advice in relation to the re-opening of schools.
It says "a distance of 1 metre should be maintained between desks or between individual pupils in classes above 3rd class.
Schools have been advised to reconfigure class rooms to maximise physical distancing, while pupils should avoid sharing the likes of pens, tablets and phones.
For secondary schools, physical distancing of 2 metres where possible or at least 1 metre should be maintained between desks or between individual students or staff.
It is recommended that schools stagger break times and outdoor access, while playtime and outdoor activities should be adjusted to minimise crowding at entrances and exits.
For parents, they will be told to stagger drop off/pick up times where practical so that not all children arrive onsite at one time.
The HPSC says walking and cycling to school should be encouraged as much as possible.
