Covid-19 Testing Arrangements for Secondary School Students.

Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing to you following the Government’s announcement yesterday about the reopening of schools, and the resulting changes to the Covid-19 testing arrangements for secondary school students.

We are working to keep school as safe as possible and, as part of this, secondary schools have been asked to offer students testing on-site from 8th March; this will consist of an initial 3 tests, 3 to 5 days apart. Students will be supervised whilst swabbing to make sure they are doing it correctly, the lateral flow tests are quick and easy using a swab of the nose and throat. These tests are intended to help staff and students to remain in school safely. Testing is voluntary, however, we would encourage everyone to participate in the asymptomatic testing programme to help break the transmission links.

Results (which take around half an hour from testing) will be shared directly with the staff and students participating, as they are sent to the email and/or mobile number you provide. Where participants are under 16, parents or legal guardians will also be informed. Testing is free of charge.

Please find below some frequently asked questions, and attached is an instructional leaflet with some more information about the Lateral Flow Test.

If you are happy for your child to be tested, please complete the online consent form via this link: Click Here by 3pm on Friday 26th February 2021.

Please note that following these initial 3 tests that are offered in school, both staff and students will be supplied with Lateral Flow Tests to self-swab and test themselves twice a week at home. More details will follow about this is due course.

If you have any queries or would like further assistance, please either contact the school office or email: info@pks.coventry.sch.uk .

Kind regards

Mr N Clayton, Headteacher

Frequently Asked Questions

What if a student tests positive?

Participating staff and students who test positive will be informed about their results individually. Where participants are under 16, parents or legal guardians will also be notified. Guidance on safe travel and additional precautions will be provided along with test results.

What happens if the test is negative?

You will be able to stay in school and resume activities as normal. A student will only be told if they test positive on a ‘lateral flow’ test, so if you do not hear you can assume it was negative. A small number of students may need to repeat the test if the first test was invalid or void for some reason.

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 (such as 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.