We have followed government guidance in assessing and mitigating risks at our school, based on the system of controls set out in the guidance document.
- Ventilation – classrooms and learning spaces are kept well-ventilated with windows open.
- Hygiene – we continue to provide facilities for children and adults to regularly wash or sanitise their hands. We encourage everyone to use tissues when they sneeze of cough and dispose of them immediately.
- Cleaning – we have an enhanced programme of cleaning in place so that frequently touched surfaces are cleaned throughout the day.
- Testing, Track and Trace – our staff take regular lateral flow tests to lower the risk of asymptomatic spread of Covid. Anyone with symptoms of Covid stay at home until tested and, if positive, remain at home for 10 days
It is no longer a requirement for face coverings to be worn by adults, so this will now be a personal choice. However, we will continue to use these in smaller spaces.
All of our safety measures are subject to change, depending on the case numbers.
On Saturday 27 November 2021, the Prime Minister announced new temporary measures following the emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in the UK.
The new measures will be introduced as a precaution to slow down the spread of the variant while we gather more information. We will continue to keep this under review as the situation develops.
Face coverings
Face coverings should be worn in communal areas in all settings by staff, visitors and pupils or students in year 7 and above, unless they are exempt.
Testing
All educational and childcare settings should continue to encourage staff to test twice weekly using lateral flow device (LFD) tests.
Contact tracing and isolation
The current guidance on contact tracing and isolation remains in place. In addition to these, any suspected or confirmed close contacts of the Omicron variant will be asked to isolate for 10 days regardless of vaccination status or age. You will be contacted directly and told to isolate.
Vaccination
All eligible staff and students aged 12 and over are encouraged to take up the offer of the vaccine, including boosters.
Vaccines are our best defence against COVID-19. They help protect young people and adults, and benefit those around them. Vaccination makes people less likely to catch the virus and less likely to pass it on.
To book a vaccination, please visit: Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
