The DfE has announced that Covid-19 restrictions in education settings will end at Step 4, which is expected to take place on 19 July. The DfE has updated its FE operational guidance for FE and skills providers on what to do during the COVID-19 outbreak to maintain provision in line with this announcement. The updated guidance applies from Step 4 and it removes restrictions such as keeping students in consistent groups (bubbles) and wearing face coverings in classrooms and communal areas and on dedicated transport. It also includes information about updating your outbreak management plan and what to do when an individual in your setting tests positive for COVID-19. From Step 4, close contacts will be identified by NHS Test and Trace. It has also updated the guidance for testing over the summer and autumn term. By the autumn term, children under the age of 18 years old will no longer be required to self-isolate if they are contacted by NHS Test and Trace as a close contact. A summary of the changes for FE providers can be read here.
