The country's post-primary pupils and teachers are adding face coverings to their list of school supplies for the coming term.
Like many schools across the country, St Nathy’s has a PE and sports hall but parts of the building are older and pose challenges for social distancing.And he believes the recommendation for teachers and students to wear masks in situations where two metres' distance is not possible, will ease the minds of some of his older colleagues.
"Will it be the Government, will it be the schools? Some will say that masks are a necessity and have to be paid for - but not everyone will have the ability to do so. It is a challenge that will have to be overcome." Some post-primary students in Longford have already been told they will need to bring a mask to school.
"She takes the bus to school and will have to wear a mask, but it’s hard to get the right sizes for the kids. I’ve been finding it hard to get one." One student entering transition year in Longford said she was not looking forward to wearing a face covering.