Targeted Asymptomatic Testing in School

We are writing to let you know that the school will be taking part in a pilot to have school staff tested once a week at school.

The purpose of the testing is to support other measures the school are already taking to provide a COVID secure environment. The school testing does not replace the national test and trace system for those who are experiencing symptoms. This pilot will only test staff who have no covid-19 symptoms (asymptomatic), are well and are at work.

The type of test used for the pilot will provide the staff with their test results on the day, enabling the school to take swift action in isolating contacts and class bubbles if necessary. The member of staff will then need to get a confirmation test, which may take a few days to get their results. Should a follow up test come back negative then the staff member and their contacts/bubble will be able to return to school.

The school are sharing the learning from the pilot with the local authority and other schools in the borough. Depending on how the pilot goes, as well as local and national testing plans will determine whether we continue to provide testing for our staff in the New Year.