Children who come to school without a mask will not be sent home.
The Department of Education has issued new guidelines after it announced that students from 3rd class and up, would have to wear face coverings.
The updated guidance says "it is not intended that any child will be excluded from a school in the first instance".
Last week, primary schools were directed to refuse entry to older pupils who presented without masks.
Pairic Clerkin, CEO of the Irish Primary Principals Network outlines what will happen if a child does arrive to school without a face covering.
Guidance has also been issued relating to mixed classes. If 2nd and 3rd class students are sharing a classroom, just the 3rd class students need to wear masks.
Separately free antigen tests have been announced under a new 9 million euro scheme for third level students.
Colleges will be able to apply for funding to purchase tests to be distributed on campus.
