Dear Parents/Carers

As we start the new term with the covid-19 virus still impacting on our lives, I want to update you on the situation in school.

Thank you to those who have completed LFD tests and uploaded the results.

We have a small number of students who have returned positive tests and are now completing the self-isolation protocols.

The Government recently updated the advice for school settings, which is outlined below.

LFD Testing

We advise all students to complete two LFD tests before returning to school.

Test results should be uploaded to allow the school to monitor those who have completed the tests.

Regular testing should be completed each week, ideally twice.

LFD testing kits will be available from school.

Face coverings & Masks

The Government is temporarily recommending that face coverings are worn in classrooms and teaching spaces for students in Year 7 or above, in light of the Omicron variant surge.

The advice is short term only to support pupils and staff as they return to schools this term and builds on the existing guidance that recommends face coverings for all adults in communal areas of all settings. 

The advice on face coverings in classrooms will be in place until the 26 January, when Plan B regulations are currently scheduled to expire, at which point it will be reviewed.

Therefore, we request all students bring appropriate masks to school to wear during lessons and in communal areas.

Changes to the self-isolation period 

Since Wednesday 22 December, the 10-day self-isolation period for people who record a positive PCR test result for COVID-19 has been reduced to 7 days in most circumstances, unless you cannot test for any reason.  

Individuals may now take LFD tests on day 6 and day 7 of their self-isolation period. Those who receive two negative test results are no longer required to complete 10 full days of self-isolation. The first test must be taken no earlier than day 6 of the self-isolation period and tests must be taken 24 hours apart. This also applies to children under five, with LFD testing at parental or guardian discretion. If both these test results are negative, and the person does not have a high temperature, they may end their self-isolation after the second negative test result and return to school from day 8.

Remote Learning

We will endeavour to maintain learning onsite and follow the normal curriculum.

However, if the situation arises due to staff shortages, it may be necessary to merge classes or switch to online remote learning.

If this does happen, those students expecting to take GCSEs , A levels and other examinations this year will be prioritised for face-to-face lessons.

We ask you respect and follow this guidance to ensure we work together to minimise the spread of the virus and limit the disruption to learning for the students.

Best wishes

R James
Deputy CEO/Director of Secondary/Executive Headteacher