Pupils across England will see a change of rules in the classroom from Monday following Boris Johnson’s lockdown announcement on Monday.

Boris Johnson thanked the public for their sacrifices amid the coronavirus pandemic as he confirmed stage three of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown will go ahead as planned on May 17.

Addressing the public, he told the Downing Street press conference: “I want to thank you particularly because your efforts have so visibly paid off, giving us the time to vaccinate more than two thirds of all adults across the UK, with more than one third – nearly 18 million people – also receiving their second dose and thereby unquestionably saving many lives.

“And so, it’s precisely because of your efforts that I can confirm today that we’ve met our four tests for further easing the lockdown in England.”

As part of those changes, face coverings for secondary school and college pupils will no longer be recommended in classrooms and communal areas.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb had previously said that he hoped pupils would no longer have to wear face masks in the classroom.

The changes come as new legislation aimed at reforming education for older teenagers and adults.

Dorset Echo: Adult education laws will be ‘rocket fuel’ for levelling-up agenda, Johnson says. (PA)Adult education laws will be ‘rocket fuel’ for levelling-up agenda, Johnson says. (PA)

The changes will act as “rocket fuel” for Boris Johnson’s levelling up programme according to the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister said he was “revolutionising” the adult education and training system as the Government prepared to set out its legislative agenda in the Queen’s Speech on Tuesday.

Downing Street said the promise of a “lifetime skills guarantee” will be central to plans for the new parliamentary session as the Government seeks to rebuild the nation after the coronavirus pandemic.

No 10 said new laws will create a post-16 and adult education and training system that is “fit for the future”.

Mr Johnson said:  “These new laws are the rocket fuel that we need to level up this country and ensure equal opportunities for all. We know that having the right skills and training is the route to better, well-paid jobs.

“I’m revolutionising the system so we can move past the outdated notion that there is only one route up the career ladder, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to retrain or upskill at any point in their lives.”