Dear Parent/carer,
We are working hard to keep our school as safe as possible for staff and students. As part of this it is still important for you to let us know if your child, who attends South Wirral High School, tests positive for Covid-19. You can do this by calling the school or emailing [email protected].
You may have also heard that secondary schools across the country will be providing rapid covid tests for students on their return to school. These rapid covid tests, also known as lateral flow tests will allow us to test all students and staff who consent. In preparation for this can we ask you to read through the links below and provide consent by completing the form if you wish your child to take part in the testing programme.
Click here to provide consent: https://forms.gle/TsgyzK38BCrepsYc8
Why take part?
- Asymptomatic testing will find anyone who has the virus but has no symptoms.
- Students identified as “close contacts” will have the option of taking a test each morning for 7 school days and still attending school or isolating at home for 10 days.
- Breaks the chain of transmission of the virus.
- Minimises the time staff and students need to be out of school.
How do the tests work?
Those taking the test will be supervised by trained staff and volunteers. The lateral flow tests are quick and easy to undertake, using a swab of the nose and throat. Results (which take around half an hour from testing) will be shared directly with the individual participant. You can read a guide on how to self-swab here.
FAQ:
Do we have to take part?
The testing programme is optional, however we would encourage students to take part to help us break the chain of any transmission and ensure school is as safe an environment as possible.
What if my child tests positive?
If a pupil tests positive on a lateral flow device, they will be informed immediately by school and will need to take a further ‘PCR test’ to confirm the result. This should be on the same day or as soon as possible afterwards. School will be able to provide these PCR test kits to perform at home.
During the time while waiting for the PCR result (via text/email) they will need to self-isolate.
If the PCR test returns a positive result they will have to continue to self-isolate and follow the guidance from NHS Test and Trace.
What happens if the test is negative?
While a small number of pupils may need to repeat the test if the first test was invalid or void for some reason, pupils who test negative will be able to stay in school and resume their activities as normal. Pupils will be informed of negative test results via text/email. Where participants are under 16, parents or legal guardians will also be informed.
What if staff or students have been in close contact with someone in school who tests positive?
The staff member or student will be notified that they are a close contact by the school. If close contacts agree to be tested each day for a maximum period of 7 days, and they test negative every day, they will be allowed to remain in school. There may be instances where close contacts are also contacted by NHS Test and Trace. In this instance they should notify NHS Test and Trace that they are a close contact through school and are participating in daily contact testing.
What if my child develops symptoms?
This testing programme at school is for people with no symptoms. If your child develops symptoms at any time (including a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste) they must immediately self-isolate, and book a test by calling 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.
We will support our staff and pupils throughout, but please contact us if you have any questions. You can contact the office by calling 0151 327 3213 or via email at [email protected]