March Return to school - Onsite COVID Testing
23 February 2021
Dear Parent /Carer,
NHS Test and Trace: COVID-19 testing for Staff and Students.
The Prime Minister announced yesterday the re-opening of all schools the week beginning Monday March the 8th. As a school we will now be working hard to implement the latest guidance and ensure that the school and staff are fully prepared to welcome the students back on that week. This will be on a phased return with Year Groups returning on different days throughout the week.
As part of the return to school all students and staff will be offered 3 in School rapid tests using Lateral Flow Devices (LFD)s.
The Guidance states:
“Secondary schools should offer pupils testing at an on-site ATS from 8 March. Testing and return of pupils can be phased during the first week to manage the number of pupils passing through the test site at any one time. You should offer 3 tests, 3 to 5 days apart”
Along with the other protective measures we are taking, these tests will help staff and students to return to school safely. Up to one third of people who have coronavirus experience no symptoms. By testing we will help to stop the virus spread and ensure our school is as safe as possible.
WE require your consent :
If you are happy for your child to be tested, please log into your school ParentPay account (www.parentpay.com) and follow the instructions to register your consent.
You will need to review the consent documentation here before you confirm your consent on ParentPay
PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW A "HOW TO" GUIDE THAT SHOWS HOW TO CONSENT VIA PARENTPAY.
Please click here to view an instructional leaflet with some more information on how the testing process works.
If you cannot remember your ParentPay log in details, please email parentpay@rbhs.co.uk and we will provide these to you.
You will need to complete this for every child you have at school.
This will electronically register your consent via the school office.
Those taking the test will be supervised by trained staff. The ‘lateral flow’ tests are quick and easy using a swab of your nose and throat. For under 18s, staff can oversee the swab process.
In the event of a positive test, results (which take around half an hour from testing) will be shared directly with pupil participating. Where participants are under 16, parents or legal guardians will also be informed.
Studies conducted by Oxford University and Public Health England, have shown that the tests are as accurate in identifying a case as a PCR test (99.68% specificity). The tests have lower sensitivity but they are better at picking up cases when a person has higher viral load, hence the need to test frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions :
Please click here to view our In-School Testing FAQs page