The wearing of face coverings in 3rd to 6th classes is now mandatory, with exemptions, at national schools following NPHET's advice to government. Fourth class pupils Ava O'Regan, Isabella Cammoranesi, and Sarah Hennessy - 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