It has been reported that the government is recommending that schools in England bar older children who may be susceptible to Coronavirus from participating in 'singing, wind or brass playing' in large groups when they open fully in the near future.
Risk of infection
In article written for the Classic fm website (2nd July), it was stated that the instruction labelled 'Specific points for Key Stages 4 and 5' (Years 10 to 13) outlined that; "Schools should note that there may be an additional risk of infection in environments where you or others are singing, chanting, playing wind or brass instruments or shouting."
It went on to state that schools should encourage, "…physical distancing and playing outside wherever possible"as well as "limiting group sizes to no more than 15, positioning pupils back-to-back or side-to-side, avoiding sharing of instruments, and ensuring good ventilation".
Not take place
It goes on to say: "Singing, wind and brass playing should not take place in larger groups such as school choirs and ensembles, or school assemblies."
The plan does not confirm for how long the measures will be in place, but comes as part of the guidelines for schools re-opening in full in September.
Singing, wind and brass playing should not take place in larger groups such as school choirs and ensembles, or school assembliesKey Stage 4 & 5 guidelines
Frustration
The announcement also comes at a time of growing frustration from performers and ensembles, choirs and brass bands that the government has been slow or even ignorant in their understanding of the low level potential of aerosol transmission of COVID-19 from these forms of music making.
The restrictions surrounding pubs, cinemas and other venues where communal activities can take place indoors are being lifted, yet they believe little is being done to help the arts and cultural sector, despite a 5 step plan announced in recent weeks.
A recent leaked draft of the report also suggested that non 'core' subjects such as music may also be considered to be dropped in the first term back to allow pupils to 'catch-up' in subjects such as maths and English.
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