School pupils forced to stay outside during Storm Francis

Students at Mackie Academy in Stonehaven had to remain outdoors for social distancing reasons.

School pupils forced to stay outside during Storm Francis

A high school in Aberdeenshire is reviewing its breaktime rules after pupils were told to stay outside during Storm Francis on Tuesday.

Students at Mackie Academy in Stonehaven had to remain outdoors at break and lunch because of “insuffient indoor space to maintain physical distancing”.

The policy, which Aberdeenshire Council said was “in line with Scottish Government advice”, led to concerns being raised by parents.

The council advises that children, young people and staff “should spend more time outdoors, with weather appropriate clothing, keeping at least two metres from others” due to the public health emergency.

However, the local authority confirmed senior staff at Mackie Academy will review the breaktime guidance.

The school also plans to put temporary shelters in place.

A spokesman for Aberdeenshire Council said: “Unfortunately, due to insufficient indoor space to maintain physical distancing, pupils at Mackie Academy were told remain outside during breaktime and lunchtime on Tuesday, August 25, during inclement weather.

“These arrangements were in line with Scottish Government advice.

“A review of arrangements is being carried out by Mackie Academy’s senior leadership team.

“New guidance will make it clearer where pupils can gather inside during breaktimes and lunchtimes when there are bad weather events.

“The school plans to put up temporary shelters for pupils who wish to remain outside to help keep them dry.

“The head teacher will write to parents to explain the new arrangements.”

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