Doncaster school pupils told to wear coats as windows opened to beat Covid-19

Outwood Academy Danum announced the news on Facebook following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Saturday evening announcement of a new national lockdown for England which will begin this Thursday.

A short statement said: “To prevent possible spread of Covid-19, schools have been asked by the DfE to increase ventilation by opening windows in all classrooms and stairwells.

"We will be doing this from Monday on our return to school.

"If students are cold they can wear black jumpers or their outdoor coats. Hoodies are not to be worn please. Thank you for your support with this.”

The Outwood organsisation also runs Outwood Academy at Adwick at Woodlands where it is understood the same rules are in place.

A statement on the DFE website reads: “Good ventilation can help reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus, so focus on improving general ventilation, preferably through fresh air or mechanical systems.

“Where possible, consider ways to maintain and increase the supply of fresh air, for example, by opening windows and doors (unless fire doors).

“Also consider if you can improve the circulation of outside air and prevent pockets of stagnant air in occupied spaces. You can do this by using ceiling fans or desk fans for example, provided good ventilation is maintained.

“The risk of transmission through the use of ceiling and desk fans is extremely low providing there is good ventilation in the area it is being used, preferably provided by fresh air.”