PCR tests for Y5 children who are isolating

Dear parents and carers,

 

I sent some brief information out to you earlier today, in order to update you at the earliest opportunity.  As it was the weekend I was out with my family.  Now I am back at home with full IT access, I thought it would be useful to give you more information about the PCR testing.

 

We were informed yesterday, just as the school day was ending, that a Y5 child had tested positive for COVID.  We then sought the required advice from Public Health England (PHE).  PHE sent over some information for us to send out and share with you as soon as possible.  Our priority was to let parents know quickly about the need for your children to isolate.

 

Why we arranged for PCR tests to be delivered to school

Since yesterday I have been made aware that the surge testing centre near to us, mentioned in the standard PHE letter, is closing from tomorrow.  In addition, attending there would mean your children leaving their isolation to go and get a test.  We feel it would be better to avoid our children having to do that where possible, as obviously they have been asked to isolate by PHE for good reason.

 

Having discussed those two issues with PHE earlier today, we have arranged for PCR tests to be delivered to school on Monday, for everyone who has not yet had a test.  We appreciate that some of you may have arranged one for today.  If your child has already had a PCR test since you were informed yesterday, then your child will not need to do another one, unless they develop symptoms.  

 

Picking up tests

We will be sending you a google link on Monday morning to ask if you will be coming to get a PCR test for your child.  These will be available from 12pm.  All children will need to do a PCR before returning to school at the end of the isolation period.  If you cannot collect a PCR test then a friend or family member is welcome to collect it on your behalf.  Please just let us know.

 

Returning tests

Tests need to be returned to school by 10am on Tuesday.  School will be open until 5pm on Monday if you wish to return the test on Monday.  

 

Test results

We would expect to receive results back by tea time on Wednesday at the latest.  We will be in touch with you when we receive them.

 

As long as your child remains symptom free this is the only PCR test we expect them to need to do before they can return to school, when their isolation period is over.  

 

Can my child return to school if their test is negative?

If your child’s results are negative they will still need to continue to isolate for the isolation period.  This is in case they go on to  develop COVID.  But this swift PCR testing means any possible asymptomatic cases can be found and contact tracing can take place.

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact school on Monday morning.  We very much appreciate that no-one wants their child to have to isolate again.  We know how difficult this is for you all.  But it is important that they do, in order to protect everyone from further spread of COVID.  Remote learning will be set for all children from Monday morning.  If your child needs to borrow a laptop, one can be collected when you come to collect a PCR test.  

 

Best wishes.

 

Miss Byrne

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