1. The Scottish Ministers in exercise of their powers conferred by section 38(2) and paragraph 11(1) of schedule 17 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 (c.7) (“the 2020 Act”) give the following Educational Continuity Direction.

2. Before giving this direction, the Scottish Ministers had regard to the advice relating to coronavirus from the Chief Medical Officer of the Scottish Administration.

3. The Scottish Ministers are satisfied that giving the direction is a necessary and proportionate action for or in connection with the continued provision of education.

The Scottish Ministers direct as follows:

4. This Direction applies to every education authority in Scotland.

Reopening of schools

5. An education authority may reopen schools under their management for the provision of education to pupils from 11 August 2020.

6. Each education authority is required to ensure that all schools under their management are open to pupils for the provision of education no later than 18 August 2020.

Contingency planning

7. Each education authority is required to prepare contingency plans which can be used immediately in the event of a local coronavirus outbreak.

Requirement to have regard to certain matters, and to guidance

8. In making the provision or carrying on the activities set out in this Direction, an education authority must have regard to the objective of preventing the transmission of coronavirus, to the welfare of children and young people and staff, and to the importance of continuity of education.

9. In making the provision or carrying on the activities set out in this Direction, an education authority must have regard to relevant guidance issued by the Scottish Ministers.

Duration and publication

10. This Direction takes effect from 00:01 on 10 August 2020.

11. This Direction has effect until the earlier of the expiry of the period ending with 30 August 2020, or its revocation by a further Direction given by the Scottish Ministers.

12. This Direction is published in accordance with paragraph 13(1) of schedule 17 of the 2020 Act.

Signed by

Richard Lochhead MSP

Minister for Further Education,

Higher Education and Science

August 2020