Sturgeon today announced to the Scottish Parliament that the current restrictions in schools would be here to stay for the time being.
The first minister said that her government would not recommend a change to the Reducing Risks in Schools guidance but that the guidance would be under close and regular scrutiny.
It is understood that the Advisory Sub-Group on Education will be meeting later in the day on Tuesday 25.
It is believed this may lead to further changes.
This means that face coverings within school settings will remain mandatory as case numbers continue to surge with a 41 per cent rise in cases for those under the age of 15 in Scotland.
The first minister did add however that there “would be a change to the guidance on organised activities for children.”
From Friday, face coverings will no longer be required for any adult taking part in organised activities when they are directly interacting with children under the age of 5.
The change aims to bring the guidance for indoor activities into line with that for early learning and childcare settings, and to be of benefit to younger children and those working with them.
Sturgeon said: “We are not, at this stage, recommending any immediate change to the Reducing Risks in Schools guidance. However, this is being kept under close and regular review for schools and the early learning and childcare sector. The Advisory Sub-Group on Education is meeting again today.
“We will consider carefully any recommendations it makes, and continue to seek its advice on issues such as groupings within schools, and the requirement for secondary school pupils to wear face coverings.
“On the issue of face coverings, I know young people want to see the back of them as soon as possible. But I also know that many young people understand and agree - especially when cases in the younger age group are rising - that face coverings do provide important protection.
“So this is a matter that requires and will receive careful consideration.”
