The wearing of face coverings in 3rd to 6th classes is now mandatory, with exemptions, at national schools following NPHET's advice to government. Santa's Little Helper elf wearing a mask in the class with (left) teacher Mr Cashman. Pupils wearing face mask coverings during lessons in the classroom at Ballintemple National School, Crab Lane, Cork. Covid-19 coronavirus global pandemic. Pic: Larry Cummins