Covid – Omicron Variant Update

We continue to respond to ever-changing guidance from the Local Authority and Public Health England around Covid-19. There have been some key changes over the weekend in respond to the new Omicron variant. Here is a summary:

• All staff will return to wearing face coverings in communal areas around school (and will continue to do so on transport).
• We will not be bringing the children of our three schools together this term indoors (e.g. for the Christingle service).
• Visitors into school will be kept to a minimum and will be asked to wear face coverings and (where possible) carry out a lateral flow test prior to visiting.
• Staff members will continue to carry out twice weekly lateral flow testing.
• Test and trace may enforce stricter isolation of close-contacts if the Omicron variant is found or suspected. This will be managed on a case-by-case basis.

How to respond to the onset of symptoms / positive lateral flow test:

• If your child develops symptoms (high temperature; new/continuous cough; loss/change to sense of small or taste) OR tests positive on a lateral flow test: keep them off school; book a PCR test at your earliest convenience; let us know as soon as possible. At this point, siblings may continue to attend school.
• If your child’s PCR test comes back negative: (s)he can return to school.
• If your child’s PCR test comes back positive:
  • (S)he must isolate for 10 days: this includes the day your symptoms started (or the test date if you have no symptoms) and the next 10 full days. A learning package will be provided by school.
  • Siblings and family members in the same household should get a PCR test and isolate until the test results come through. Test and trace may contact you and advise stricter isolation if the Omicron variant is found or suspected.