A Melbourne school is “strongly encouraging” students to wear masks indoors.

Tom Elliott was alerted to the change at Tintern Grammar on Thursday afternoon and Neil Mitchell has seen a letter sent to the school community which states all year 3 to year 12 students must carry a mask at all times, and they’re strongly encouraged to wear them indoors.

The change comes after a “spike” in absences due to illness.

Press PLAY below to hear an infectious diseases doctor’s thoughts on the school’s decision

Infectious diseases paediatrician from the University of Sydney, Professor Robert Booy, says it’s a sensible move.

NEIL MITCHELL: “If I came to see you and said … ‘Should I get the kids to wear masks indoors?’ what would you say?”

PROFESSOR BOOY: “I’d say yes.”