COVID UPDATE 08/04/2022

COVID UPDATE    8th April 2022

Dear Parents/Carers,

As you’ll be aware, there has been a significant shift in government policy regarding Covid-19 and how we learn to live with the virus like any other illness.  The main changes are around testing and what to do if you or your child feels unwell.  We have summarised the main points for you below in question and answer format.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Fletcher for a further discussion. 

What do I do if I feel my child has possible Covid-19 symptoms and feels unwell?

As we move towards living with Covid-19, we are no longer being asked to isolate. There is no longer a requirement for children to stay away from school with possible symptoms pending tests. Normal absence procedures will continue and your child is expected to attend school with minor coughs and cold symptoms, headaches and sore throats unless they also have a high temperature. If they have a high temperature, then it is recommended they stay home until this returns to normal levels below 37.8 degrees.

My child feels poorly or has possible Covid-19 symptoms, should I get them tested?

Tests are now no longer available for free on the NHS. School will not ask you to have your child tested.  You may still choose to pay for private Covid-19 testing for personal reasons. A single lateral flow test from Boots Chemist will cost £2, and a pack of 5 is currently £9.80, for example. School does not have a supply of tests and cannot provide them.

What do I do if I decide to pay for a Covid-19 test and my child tests positive?

If you decide to pay for a private Covid-19 test and your child tests positive, they will be asked to stay away from school for 3 days. Adults who decide to take a test and test positive will be advised to try and avoid contact with other people for 5 days. There is no legal requirement to strictly isolate without leaving the home as was previously the case.

What if my child becomes unwell during the school day? Will they be sent home with Covid-19 symptoms?

Children with minor coughs, colds, headaches and sore throats will not be sent home if they are well enough to be in school. If your child develops a high temperature at school, and they are clearly unwell, they will be sent home until the high temperature has returned to normal levels. You will not be asked to have your child tested for Covid-19 if they are sent home poorly. We would always encourage children to attend and remain in school with common minor ailments.

Will these new measures increase the risk of the spread of Covid-19 in school? 

The government has updated the guidance due to the success of the vaccination rollout, which means that there are high levels of protection in the community from serious illness. This means that Covid-19 can now be treated like any other respiratory infection, like colds and flu. Schools will continue to promote good hygiene measures like regular handwashing and appropriate use and disposal of tissues.

Please let me know if you need any further clarification. 

Many thanks, 

Mrs Fletcher