THE polytunnels and geodomes usually seen on farms and at festivals may become the “new normal” in schools across Scotland.

A Scottish Government report, issued as part of its coronavirus guidance, suggested the measures in order to maintain social distancing when schools return in August.

The report proposes the use of flexible accommodation, such as mobile classrooms and geodomes. There is also interest in the potential for outdoor learning, facilitated by the use of polytunnels and canopies.

Further suggestions include temporarily converting assembly and dining halls into multiple classrooms.

Some local authorities, such as Glasgow City Council, have considered a part-time learning approach.

In a move likely to be very popular with schoolchildren, the council has said a two-day school week could be one solution to allow social distancing in schools.

After discussions with trade unions and headteachers, plans were drawn up to split children into two groups. Group A would attend classes on Mondays and Tuesdays, with Group B coming in on Thursdays and Fridays.

Wednesdays would be used for teacher preparation and deep cleaning of classrooms.

Alternative models are being considered and it is unlikely a one-size-fits-all approach will be used across Scotland’s 32 council areas.

A Glasgow City Council spokesperson said: “No plans for the return to the school day have been confirmed as we are still in discussions with headteachers and the unions.

“A number of models and plans are being looked at and we are speaking to staff, parents and pupils to help shape what the new school day might look like, in line with Scottish Government timescales and guidance.”

Aberdeen City Council said it is looking at similar models, including the blended use of classroom teaching and learning from home.

Class sizes are also expected to be significantly smaller to accommodate social distancing.

Pupils are expected to return from August 11 in Scotland, with teachers returning to classrooms as early as June 1 to prepare.

Guidance from the Scottish Government on re-opening schools highlighted local authorities as being key in developing the best approach for their schools. It said when capacity issues arise, remote learning may need to still be used to maintain social distancing.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “The health and wellbeing of children and young people is our priority, which is why in implementing this guidance we will adopt a cautious approach and monitor progress to inform decisions on further changes.

It is important to stress that there will be regional variation in implementation. It’s for councils to work with teachers and put in place the best solutions locally. I am certain they will rise to the challenge.”

Schools in England are due to open on Monday, despite warnings from the independent Sage scientific advisory group that doing so will push the R number back above 1.0.