Coronavirus Scotland: All school pupils will return to classroom this month

The First Minister revealed primary kids will be back full time from March 15 while high school children will assume blended learning on this date. 

Secondary pupils will return full time following the Easter holidays unless circumstances change, Ms Sturgeon added. 

READ MORE: Steven Gerrard leads tributes to Liverpool legend Ian St John

Children in primaries one to three and a small number of secondary school pupils returned last month. 

Ms Sturgeon said: "Unless new evidence or circumstances force us to reconsider, which we of course hope will not be the case, all children in primary four to seven will go back to school on a full time basis.

"We'll take a blended return to secondary school on March 15 with a clear expectation that all secondary pupils will be back on a full time basis following the Easter holidays.

Nicola Sturgeon

"It is the intention all pupils will return to spend some time in school following March 15." 

However, when secondary schools return, face coverings will have to be worn at all times and physical distancing guidelines followed.

The First Minister also urged school staff and older secondary pupils to take up the lateral flow tests being made available.

She said: “I would encourage as many staff and senior phase pupils as possible to use the tests when they return to school. It is a further important way in which we can ensure that schools remain as safe as possible.”

Ms Sturgeon thanked school staff for their work to support young people during the pandemic.

Updating MSPs in Holyrood, the First Minister said: “I know everyone is looking forward to having children back in the classroom as soon as possible.

“I also want to thank parents across the country. I can only imagine how difficult all of this disruption continues to be – but I hope, and believe, that the end of it is now firmly in sight.

READ MORE: Glasgow rallies round to rehome Dennistoun swans attacked by parents

“And my thanks too to children and young people. I know how hard it must be to be separated from friends and teachers.

“But you have responded magnificently to all the difficulties of the last year.

“I hope that you are looking forward to getting back to school later this month.”

More to follow...