September Return – Information letter

Our ref:  TSE/lti

26^th August 2021

Dear Parent/Carer

Further to our letter dated 21^st July, I am writing to you today regarding the Lateral Flow Testing (LFT) to be undertaken in school on our return in September.

This testing is a crucial part of the government strategy to identify asymptomatic individuals who have been infected by Covid-19, but do not have any of the classic symptoms.  By doing this, we can help to reduce the transmission of Covid-19 in our community – both in school, and at home.

• The test is completed by your child– under supervision
• It consists of a simple swab of their nose
• We process the test and upload the results to the NHS to aid their tracking of the virus and they will text the number you have provided on the consent form to let you know the result
• Each student will be given two tests, between 3 and 5 days apart.  After their first Covid test students will return home.  For the second test, students will complete the test whilst in school, and then return to lessons, remaining in school.

Following the initial tests in school, students will be given tests kits to take and complete at home.  We would be grateful if you could support your child with completing these tests every 3 to 5 days.  You should then upload the result to the NHS website to aid their tracking of the virus. We understand that the home testing plan will be reviewed by the Government at the end of September and we will write to you with further updates as soon as we receive them.

Session Times for Test One (after which students will return home)

The test appointment times will be sent by text to you shortly. Your child will be given a 25-minute appointment window, according to their College Group.

Please remember:

• The testing programme at Hans Price Academy is for students with no symptoms.
• Your child should NOTattend school if they have ANY of the key Covid-19 Symptoms:
  • High Temperature
  • New, continuous cough
  • A loss, or change, to their sense of smell or taste
• If your child does have any symptoms, please book a test with your local testing centre by calling 119 or going online https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test

We will continue with our systems of control to keep both our school and the wider community as safe as possible.  These will be:

• Continued enhanced cleaning of touchpoints during the day
• The provision and use of sanitisation stations in every room
• Continued promotion of good respiratory hygiene
• Ensuring rooms are well ventilated
• Students and staff undertaking twice-weekly Covid Tests

Key Information

As mentioned above, you will receive a text in the next couple of days to confirm the 25-minute session time for your child.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact [email protected]

Yours faithfully

Mr T Searle

Principal