Dubai’s KHDA issues detailed school reopening plan

The strict guidelines have been produced in order to ensure a safe return of students after the summer break.

It includes all students over the age of six and staff members to wear a face mask at all times as well as social distancing of two metres in common areas, and a 10-minute time limit for parents during drop-off and pick-up times.

Schools implemented an online learning system in March this year as a result of the restrictions enforced by the government to curb the spread of coronavirus.

A selection of the new regulations from KHDA surrounding reopening includes:

• The school should implement a staggered entry and exit procedure to eliminate overcrowding and to maintain 2 metres physical distancing in high traffic areas.
• Common areas in the school (i.e. toilets, pantry, waiting areas, etc.) should be cleaned and disinfected every hour or after every use. This also applies to frequently used areas/ surfaces such as door handles, dining tables, seat rests, elevator keys, etc
• Encourage strict hand washing regime and adequate hand washing breaks for children. Assist children with handwashing, especially younger children who cannot wash hands alone.
• Classroom area should support sufficient room for groups to maintain physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres per child in each classroom provided everyone wears a mask.
• Showers and changing rooms are not permitted. On the days where students have PE lessons, they must come to school in their full PE uniform.
• Student ratios will vary depending on the size of the classroom. The school will have the liberty to decide on the number of students per class as long as a safe distance of at least 1.5 metres per child or person is maintained.
• Group activities such as school trips, celebrations, sports and student camps should be suspended.