Covid-19 testing

From January 2021, lateral flow testing for asymptomatic cases was introduced for schools. These tests aim to identify positive cases within the school community that would normally go undetected due to a lack of symptoms, but could contribute to the spread of the virus amongst students, staff and their families.

The lateral flow tests produce a result in 30 minutes and do not require a laboratory to process. Whilst a negative test does not completely remove the risk of transmission, being tested helps to keep the school community and their families at home safer.

All staff and students are expected to test twice weekly at home, using the testing kits that are distributed on a regular basis.  All test results (whether positive, negative or void) should be reported to NHS Test and Trace after each test.

A small testing area remains on site, in accordance with government guidance, for those unable to complete these at home.  In addition, a larger testing operation is enacted whenever required by the government to do so.

Important: This testing does not replace testing for those with symptoms.  No student or staff should attend school if they are displaying symptoms, if they are required to self-isolate or if a member of their household has the virus.