Schools started as planned on Monday, despite some worry in previous weeks that the haze may worsen.

At Hougang Primary School, for example, outdoor physical education lessons were held and students were also briefed on what to do if the haze worsens. During her visit to Hougang Primary this morning, Senior Parliamentary Secretary (Education and Communications and Information) Ms Sim Ann said that the Education Ministry is tracking the haze closely, but that all the schools are well-prepared.

Last Friday, the Ministry of Education announced contingency plans, this includes considering closing all primary and secondary schools if the health advisory indicates that air quality will be at the hazardous level. Others plans include maximising the use of all existing air-conditioned spaces in the schools.

"The air quality has just improved quite significantly, and I think as far as our schools are concerned, this could not have come at a better time," said Ms Sim.