Parent Q&A

The tests come with full guidance. 

Please see the leaflet online here to see an example of how the tests work.

A positive test

Should a student receive a positive test at home:

1. Do not come to school.  Report your test result to NHS Test and Trace as per instructions in the home test kit.
2. Begin self-isolation and arrange a further ‘PCR test’ (similar to those done in local testing sites) on the same day by calling 119 to book a follow-up test.  Remember to minimise any contact with others.
3. Once you have had the further test, continue to self-isolate while you await your result.
4. If the PCR test returns a positive result you will have to self-isolate for the full 10 days and follow the guidance from NHS Test and Trace.  If you receive a negative test, you may return to school as normal. 

A negative test, or an inconclusive test

Should a student receive a negative test they should attend school as normal. A small number may need to repeat the test if the first test was invalid or void for some reason.

This testing programme at school is for people with no symptoms. If your young person develops symptoms at any time (such as a high temperature; a new, continuous cough; or a loss or change to their sense of smell or taste) they must immediately self-isolate, and book a test by calling 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.

Studies conducted by Oxford University and Public Health England, show that the tests are accurate in identifying a case. The tests have lower sensitivity but they are better at picking up cases when a person has higher viral load, hence the need to test frequently.

We are urging all families to agree to these safe and quick tests to complete at home.  If you do not give your permission, your young person should attend school as normal and continue to follow all other safety precautions.  Should they come into contact with a confirmed case, they will be required to self-isolate for 10 days.