Tampere committee backs ban on face coverings in schools and early childhood education from 2027

Tampere's education committee on Tuesday approved a proposal to ban face coverings in the city's schools and early childhood education, with the ban set to take effect on 1 January 2027. The measure has been forwarded to the vitality and competence committee, the city board and ultimately the city council, Aamulehti reports.

The restriction would cover early childhood education, basic education, upper secondary schools and Tredu. Exceptions will be allowed for medical reasons and for themed events that receive separate guidance. Tredu says the rule would not apply to outside customers in open learning environments such as restaurants, cafés, children's activities and accommodation services.

The proposal was tabled on 16 March by Joakim Vigelius (Finns Party) and five other councillors from the Finns Party and the Christian Democrats. Deputy Mayor Anne-Mari Jussila said it drew no discussion when it was considered. The decision follows other recent committee changes to the city's basic education curriculum approved in June.