SECONDARY school pupils in Neath Port Talbot will need to wear face masks, the council has said.

But the council is advising its primary schools that pupils do not need to wear them.

This is based on advice from Unicef, the World Health Organisation and the Welsh Government's chief medical officer - though anyone wishing to ear a mask will be able to do so.

Secondary schools are being advised that pupils should wear face coverings in communal areas until head teachers and governing bodies have gained further assurance by completing risk assessments.

On home to school transport, the council says the position is clear and face coverings must be worn by youngsters aged 11 or over – amounting to around 2,800 pupils across the county borough.

The council proposes distributing masks to pupils at zero cost to schools, parents and pupils initially. Free masks will then be subject to funding from the Welsh Government in the medium term.

Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Rob Jones, said: “It is generally accepted school is the best setting for children’s education and parents can be assured we are doing everything possible to get our children back to the classroom as efficiently and also safely as possible.”

The council’s cabinet member for education, skills and culture, Cllr Peter Rees added: “Overall, it is the council’s intention to keep the position under close review, particularly during the initial two week period at the start of term.

“We will listen to any concerns and should there be material change to the regulations and guidance, the position will be reviewed further.”