Masks & Lateral Flow Tests

Dear Parents/Carers

We would like to make you aware that the Department for Education has asked all schools in England to offer a Covid-19 test to secondary age pupils on the first day back after the Christmas Holidays, Tuesday 4th January. Testing all pupils in school boosts testing participation and will help reduce transmission after a period of social mixing over the school holidays.

This is particularly important for a specialist setting such as Severndale, where there is a significant number of clinically vulnerable students. This measure will support us all in keeping students, their families and the school environment as safe as possible. Students and staff are asked to continue to test twice weekly 3-4 days apart using lateral flow tests (LFT).

Lateral flow testing for secondary age pupils will take place upon students return to school on Tuesday 4th January in class groups. Students will be supported by a member of class staff for these tests.

These tests are at parent’s discretion and are not mandatory. If you feel that it is appropriate for your young person to complete a lateral flow test, please complete and return the attached consent form by Monday 13th December. Students will not be able to complete a lateral flow test in school if the consent form is not returned. If a student experiences any anxiety or reluctance over completing a test, a staff member may offer reassurance, but we will not be able to support students in completing their test.

As an additional measure, we are asking for secondary age pupils and above (Year 7 and above) to wear face masks when in corridors or communal areas, starting from Tuesday 30th November. Students will not need to wear masks when in classrooms, during playtime or in the dinner hall. We aware that this may not be appropriate for all students so again parent discretion is advised.

Your support in these matters is appreciated and helps us maintain a safe learning environment for all.

Yours Sincerely,

Laurence Riley
Assistant Principal