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The Health and Safety Executive has undertaken a programme of independent compliance checks regarding implementation of the COVID-19 school reopening guidance.

The initial stage of this programme involved telephone compliance checks of a representative sample of 500 schools in 16 local authorities. Over 80% of schools involved were judged likely to be in compliance with the guidance at this initial stage. The HSE undertook follow-up site visits to 100 schools where levels of compliance were less certain.

My officials met with the HSE on 23 September to understand the key findings of the HSE inspections. HSE officials reported their view that the school reopening guidance was generally of very good quality, viewed very positively by schools and was flexible enough to be implemented appropriately in different school settings and adapted to local circumstances.

Feedback from HSE officials was that, overall, the schools they visited were doing "a great job" in implementing the guidance and they were “very impressed with what has been done in very challenging circumstances”. They noted positive work in areas such as adapting social distancing approaches to specific school circumstances, and ensuring good standards of hygiene. Based on the inspections undertaken, HSE found no need for formal interventions requiring improvements. Advice and examples of good practice had been provided where there were any concerns.