VALE of Glamorgan schools will be given support on how to operate safely when they reopen later this month through an app designed by ISG.

The construction company is working on the £21.5 million expansion of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg in Barry and also developing three new 210-place primary schools in the Western Vale.

To comply with Welsh Government safety guidance during the coronavirus crisis, ISG created an app capturing new processes, procedures and innovations to enable operatives to work safely on construction sites.

This resource has now been adapted for use in schools, which are set to reopen across Wales to some pupils from Monday, June 29.

It offers general information and examples on how to introduce social distancing, as well as highlighting good practice in a range of scenarios, such as travelling to school, when in the classroom and other areas.

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Primarily for school staff, the app can be accessed by scanning a QR code, which will be displayed on classroom walls, and can also be opened by clicking a link.

Vale council cabinet member for education and regeneration, Cllr Lis Burnett said: “We are currently working in close partnership with contractors across the county, who are helping to improve school infrastructure as part of our 21st Century Schools programme of work.

“This is a further example of that collaboration, with ISG kindly adapting a tool that has allowed them to work safely on construction sites for use in schools.

“The wellbeing of children is our number one priority when schools go back and this app is just one measure that will be introduced to ensure they are protected.”

COO for ISG’s UK Construction business, Zoe Price said: “Building on the successful implementation of our digital resource to share best practice and innovation for safe working within the covid-19 guidelines, we have adapted this industry-leading approach to the Welsh education sector, through our strategic partnership with Vale of Glamorgan Council.

“Ahead of schools reopening at the end of the month, this resource is an easily accessible and clear guide for school leadership teams on the practical measures that should be taken to ensure accommodation is covid-19 compliant.

“As construction has been one of the core sectors the government has supported to remain operational throughout the pandemic, we have adapted quickly to social distancing and enhanced hygiene regimes through collaboration and innovation.

"Sharing this knowledge and approach with schools, as they grapple with the significant challenges of reopening within the new normal, is entirely consistent with our industry’s partnering and open approach, and I’m delighted that schools within the Vale of Glamorgan and beyond will benefit.”