PARENTS are being urged to complete a survey to help school leaders decide whether masks should be worn in the classroom.

Twynham School in Christchurch is currently insisting all pupils wear face coverings in lessons unless they are exempt from doing so.

This goes against government guidance and the view of Prime Minster Boris Johnson who describes masks in lessons as being "nonsensical."

Many parents and pupils have spoken out against the decision so now head teacher Jy Taylor has sent them a survey, to be completed by the end of this week.

The anonymous survey asks the year group of the child and whether they are vulnerable or live with someone vulnerable.

Parents are asked whether they think masks should be worn and whether they think face coverings should be optional.

In a letter sent to parents, Mr Taylor said: "Clearly this is a complex issue and, as we have seen, one that provokes emotive responses. Our two priorities continue to be to keep our students, their families and our staff as safe as possible and to continue to provide uninterrupted education for as long as possible.

"I thank you for your responses and remind you of the need for us all to approach this issue with continued respect, trust and tolerance as we make difficult decisions in challenging times."