Trust will hand out thousands of free face masks to Blackpool secondary school pupils

Pupils at five Blackpool and Wyre schools are getting washable face masks as part of their uniform.
Disposable masks will be dished out to FCAT pupils if orders are lateDisposable masks will be dished out to FCAT pupils if orders are late
Disposable masks will be dished out to FCAT pupils if orders are late

Bosses at the Fylde Coast Academy Trust are planning to hand out thousands of free washable face coverings to every secondary-aged pupil at four resort schools as well as Garstang Academy in Wyre.

Under new rules, from next week secondary school pupils need to wear masks in communal areas and corridors. But not in classrooms.

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The trust has ordered enough fabric masks to provide every child with three, which they can take home and use throughout the school week.

Sean Bullen interim director of Education at FCATSean Bullen interim director of Education at FCAT
Sean Bullen interim director of Education at FCAT

FCAT interim director of education Sean Bullen said that parents do not need to worry as if the supplies don’t all arrive on time pupils will be given disposable ones until they do.

He added that until further notice, the face masks will be part of the uniform at Aspire, Armfield, Unity, Montgomery and Garstang academies.

Each school will follow the same policy, although there may be slight differences depending on circumstances. .

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Mr Bullen said: “ We have decided to take this measure, as we wish to be as safe as possible and reassure our students, parents and staff that we are doing all we can to lessen the spread of Covid -19.

“This decision has been made following a long discussion between the headteachers and FCAT leaders, utilising the latest government guidance.

“It also follows the advice of the Blackpool Director of Public Health.

“All our schools have phased returns next week.

“This will give all our leaders and teachers time to help our students understand the new routines that are in place.”

He added: "The guidance has only changed earlier this week, so we are just wanting to be as prepared as possible,

whilst looking to respond quickly and safely."

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