School formals have been given the go-ahead and plans are frantically underway to ensure celebrations meet current COVID guidelines while providing a space for honour their school journey.

Under the revised rules, school formals should have tables restricted to 10 people and all dancing held outside or in well-ventilated areas, according to a set of guidelines released by the NSW Government.

Formals and graduations can take place from November 12, the day after the last HSC written exam.

Students should restrict the number of guests they bring to graduation events, and encouraged schools to create live-streams for those who cannot attend, particularly parents.

The guidelines suggest mingling before and after events should be avoided, private transport options considered, and that schools adhere to existing restrictions on catering.

They also ask schools to ensure events do not exceed four square metres per attendee and for students to bring their own pens for yearbook signing.

For Leah Elliott and Holly Lamont, the news formals could go ahead is welcomed but will be tough on parents who traditionally are a part of the final farewell.

"It was a good surprise," Holly said. "When schools closed and we went into restrictions we left that day not knowing if we'd ever come back."

Regardless of the rules around celebrations this year, Holly said they were all grateful they can at least have something to mark the end of their school journey. And the dresses are ready to go.

Year 12 adviser Jacynta Moylan said it will be more than an end of school celebration - they will all be acknowledging the fact they have made it through a very challenging year.

The school plans to livestream the arrivals for parents.

The Hastings Secondary College Westport campus formal will be held on November 17 followed by the Port Macquarie campus on November 18.

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