Back to School Advice during COVID-19 for Parents - (Multi-lingual)

Advice from Gov.ie

Multi-Lingual Versions: HERE

Most students will be looking forward to going back to school and will feel happy and excited. Some may feel a little anxious about returning. That’s a normal response at a time of change.

Most will settle back in soon once they get used to the new rules and routines. Remind them of the positive aspects of returning – like re-connecting with friends and re-engaging with school activities.

New rules and routines to follow to keep everyone safe:

Good handwashing and hygiene practice is important for all students.  Make sure your child knows to use a tissue to cover coughs or sneezes or to cough or sneeze into their elbow.

In senior primary classes and at post-primary – physical distancing procedures will need to be followed by all.  

Primary school – younger children may not be required to practice physical distancing, but they may be organised into pods. There may also be new rules about drop off and pick up.

Staff in all schools, and post-primary students, should wear a face covering where a physical distance of 2 metres cannot be maintained.

Encourage your child to walk or cycle to school if possible and safe to do so.

Teachers understand that it hasn’t been easy for young people to study at home during school closures.

School transport – students will have an assigned seat and post-primary students will be required to wear a face covering when waiting for and when on-board the bus.

Schools will communicate directly with families about reopening.

Talk together at home about what to expect when going back to school to prepare your children. Having healthy routines in place will help with the adjustment of returning to school. Encourage your child to gradually return to a school term bedtime routine.

Help your child to eat healthily, take exercise and reconnect with friends.

Students who have Covid-19 symptoms, including a fever, a cough, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties, or loss or change to their sense of smell or taste should not attend school.

Please follow guidance on HSE.ie on self-isolation and phone your doctor. Make sure students know that if they feel unwell in school they should tell their teacher straight away.

Official Gov link HERE