Explainer: Cork educators tell us what to expect when schools return

Will children wear uniforms?

While there has been some commentary on online forums suggesting uniforms will not be worn in September, both Fergal McCarthy, Principal at Kinsale Community School, and Aaron Wolfe, acting principal at Coláiste Éamann Rís, said their students will be donning uniforms when they return. 

“Children will be wearing their uniforms. We need to claw back as much normality as can,” said Mr McCarthy.

Will students have to wear face masks?

Students and teachers at second level may need to wear masks when schools return, while temperature checks on entry are a possibility, according to the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI).

Will there be increased hygiene measures at schools?

Mary Magner, Cork-based INTO President, said it is her understanding that sanitisers will be made available to schools in September. 

How will desks be sanitised during the school day?

While each school will have its own plan, Fergal McCarthy said they plan for students to sanitise their own workspace as they move between classes. 

How will schools with smaller classrooms manage?

Cork-based ASTI vice-president, Anne Piggott, said a lot of schools have open space on corridors and assembly areas and these could potentially be temporarily turned into classrooms with partitions