Covid-19 updates

11th January 2022
Dear Parents/Carers,  
 
Changes to PCR testing:  From today, if your child tests positive on a lateral flow device, you no longer need to take your child for a confirmatory PCR test. You should instead log the results via the NHS website and Test and Trace should make contact with you. Your child needs to isolate immediately.  PCR tests are necessary for children/adults who have symptoms. If your child has symptoms, it is vital that you don't rely on lateral flow tests and that you book a PCR test for your child. Please do not send your child to school, if they have symptoms, they must isolate and await the results of their PCR test.  

Ending the isolation period earlier:

Individuals may take LFD tests on day 6 and day 7 of their self- isolation period. If your child tests negative on day 6 and day 7, they are no longer required to complete the full 10 days of self-isolation. The first test must be taken no earlier than day 6 of the self- isolation period and tests must be taken 24 hours apart. If your child still has a high temperature, they cannot end their isolation period earlier even with two negative LFD results. 

The DFE have now confirmed that children can return to their education setting on day 7 as long as you can complete the test before they come to school on day 7. If your child is ending their isolation period on day 7, please email the school office to confirm that your child does not have a temperature and that they have tested negative on day 6 and day 7 of their isolation period. 

Daily testing for close contacts:

If your child is identified as a close contact of someone with covid-19, they should take an LFD test every day for seven days and continue to attend school as normal unless they have a positive test result or develop symptoms at any time. 

Guidance is constantly changing so if you are unsure of something, please don't hesitate to contact the school office and we can answer any questions you have. 

Thank you for your continued support, 

Mrs McAleny