Is it too early to remove face masks from schools?

 

Face coverings are no longer compulsory for pupils despite the rapid spread of infections in schools. Multiple parents and head teachers continue to encourage students to wear face masks despite this guidance, raising an important question: is it too early to remove face masks from school?

 

A respiratory mask (RM) is a protective device that covers a part of the face designed to provide protection against breathable pollutants (such as bacteria/virus, pathogenic organisms or respiratory poisons). They protect not only the wearer but also the immediate environment. Face masks, once seen as essential tools, are no longer required in the classroom.

 

The disruption throughout the pandemic has been devastating to children and has disrupted their education. It is crucial that children are getting face-to-face education and can enjoy a normal classroom experience according to the prime minister. 

Consequently, the requirement for wearing face masks in communal areas and in classrooms has been removed as of 27th January

The face is the most powerful and versatile tool in human communication, from which observers can quickly and easily infer a variety of information. Wearing a face mask significantly reduces pupil's ability to understand instructions. Students are forced to rely on language and gesture, which limits the extent to which we can interpret nuance, with slight inputs from eye movement. Due to speech transmission being impaired by mask-wearing, there is a risk of misunderstanding when face masks are used widely in schools. 

 

Despite the importance of clear communication, it is important to acknowledge high levels of COVID-19 present in school communities, resulting in the absence of students and staff. COVID-19 cases have risen from 1000 per day to 2000 amongst children aged 10-14. It is pivotal to reduce this rate of infection in order to prevent further disruption to the education of pupils. Face masks can be seen as necessary for this.

 

As well as this, face masks provide a feeling of security for pupils and teachers. Rahul Babu, a student at Wilson's School, describes his "safety" when wearing face masks as "vital to ensure a stress-free learning environment". 

 

In conclusion, whilst it is important to assist clear communication in a classroom, the creation of a safe environment for education must be prioritised.