Conservative led Wiltshire Council staff are volunteering in a number of secondary schools across the county from Monday (8th March) providing support for pupils taking lateral flow tests as part of the back to school programme.
Council officers will be providing assistance over the next two to three weeks as the tests are rolled out.
On 22 February the government announced schools would reopen to all students from 8 March. Pupils in Year 7 and over have been asked to take twice weekly tests with the first three happening under supervision at school and then students will carry out the fourth test themselves using a home test kit. Pupils will then continue taking twice-weekly tests using a home test kit provided by the school.
Around one in three people with COVID-19 do not have symptoms but can still pass it on to others. Regular testing of people without symptoms (asymptomatic testing) is important to help stop the virus spreading.
Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Skills said: "
This is a huge logistical exercise for all our schools and colleges and we know they are working hard to ensure pupils can take these tests while continuing their education. Providing support in this practical way is just one example of how we work closely with headteachers and educational leaders.
All our educational settings are doing an amazing job ensuring all the COVID-19 secure measures are in place and I'm sure students will look forward to seeing their classmates and enjoying learning in the school environment once more.
Secondary students have also been asked to pack face coverings in their bags for the return to class. The government is recommending students wear face coverings in classrooms and school communal areas and corridors. Face coverings do not need to be worn by pupils and students when outdoors on the premises.
People who are a member of a household, childcare bubble or support bubble of staff or a pupil can also get a twice-weekly test and more information is available at GOV.UK.
For more information on going back to school, visit GOV.UK or look at the FAQs on COVID-19: colleges, schools and early years settings.
