Government updates
Actions for early years and childcare providers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
What childcare services early years settings, childminders and local authorities need to provide during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Change made: added operational guidance for early years settings which applies at Step 4. This guidance removes restrictions such as keeping children in small consistent groups and wearing face coverings in communal areas. 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. At Step 4, close contacts will be identified by NHS Test and Trace. [By the autumn term, children under the age of 18 will no longer be required to self-isolate if they are contacted by NHS Test and Trace as a close contact.]
Use of PPE in education, childcare and children’s social care
When to use PPE, including for aerosol generating procedures (AGPs), in education, childcare and children’s social care settings for COVID-19.
Change made: added ‘The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in education, childcare and children’s social care settings, including for aerosol generating procedures (AGPs)’ for use in Step 4. We have removed sector information on the controls measures and included information on the use of personal protective equipment, including for aerosol generating procedures.
Protective measures for providers of community activities, holiday or after-school clubs, tuition and other out-of-school settings offering provision to children during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Change made: we have added COVID-19: Action for Out-of-school Settings guidance which applies from Step 4. This guidance removes restrictions such as keeping children in consistent groups (bubbles), wearing face coverings in classrooms, communal areas and in community settings, limits on parental attendance, and restrictions on group sizes for residential visits. 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 16 August, 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.
Foundation Stage Newsletter including an open letter from Ministers Ford and Churchill
A link to the Foundation Years newsletter which includes an open letter to all early years providers from Vicky Ford, Minister for Children and Families and Jo Churchill, Minister for Prevention, Public Health and Primary Care. The letter pulls together some important advice and guidance on support for children’s health and wellbeing. There is also information on a new food safety resource and updated Covid-19 guidance.