Guidance Update 

As a result of the measures announced by the UK Government in response to the latest COVID-19 variant (Omicron), I wanted to inform you of the controls we have put in place as a precaution to slow down the spread of this variant while more information is gathered.

Face Coverings

In line with guidance released by the UK Government, face coverings must be worn when entering the school, unless you have a medical exemption.

Hygiene

Enhanced cleaning and hygiene controls within the school will continue

Outside the school buildings

We ask that you continue to keep your distance from others and wear a mask to reduce the chances of spreading infection, especially at the start and end of the school day

Lateral Flow Testing (LFT)

Our staff will continue to take a Lateral Flow Test twice a week, if a test is positive they will self-isolate and take a PCR test, if positive Test and Trace will be informed, the school will follow their instruction (if any) and that of the UK Security and Health Agency (UKSHA)

Contact Tracing and Isolation Government Guidance

If your child has COVID-19 symptoms they should stay at home and self-isolate immediately. You should arrange a PCR test as soon as possible. If this PCR test result is positive, they must continue to self-isolate.

If your child does not have COVID-19 symptoms, but they have a positive PCR test result, they must stay at home and self-isolate.

If you live in the same household as someone with COVID-19, you must stay at home and self-isolate if you are not fully vaccinated or if they have been identified as a suspected or confirmed case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

If you live in the same household as someone with COVID-19 that has not been identified as a suspected or confirmed case of the Omicron variant, and you are fully vaccinated or aged under 18 years and 6 months, you are not required to self-isolate.

You may be entitled to a one-off payment of £500 through the NHS Test and Trace Support Payment scheme if you are required to stay at home and self-isolate or you are the parent or guardian of a child who has been told to self-isolate.

All schools must have a Covid-19 emergency outbreak plan which should be implemented on the advice of Public Health should the thresholds for cases be breached.  

If a child or staff member is presenting with any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent Cough
• High temperature
• Loss of taste or smell. 

They should isolate and get a PCR test.  

Should a member of a household test positive for Covid-19 the rest of the house hold does not have to isolate so long as they fall into the following category:

• Under age of 18.
• Are over the age of 18 and are double vaccinated.  

Adults are encouraged to test twice weekly using the LFD testing.  

In school we are continuing to ensure strong hygiene levels including regular hand washing and santising and cleaning of high touch point surfaces throughout the day.  

Staff in school are encouraged to test twice weekly using the lateral flow tests.  

The school will continually review these measures in line with latest government guideline.  

Medical Care during the Covid-19 crisis

Everyone is doing their bit to help beat Coronavirus. Do your bit by going to the right place for medical care.

It is important for parents and families to understand that our local emergency departments are still open for anyone who needs it. If you think your child has a very serious or life-threatening condition you must go to A&E or call 999.

If your child has a minor injury, please go to your nearest Minor Injuries Units at:

               • South Bristol Community Hospital, Hengrove

               • North Somerset Community Hospital, Clevedon

               • West Gate Centre, Yate

If your child has a minor illness, please contact your GP practice.

For 24/7 advice please go to 111.nhs.uk

Do your bit for the NHS.

Thank you.

Dr. Dan Magnus, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children