Some families have been ‘surprised’ that when COVID related symptoms have been reported to us we request a PCR test even though you may have had access to a Lateral Flow test at home.  Please find below guidance from the Health Hub explaining why they ask schools to ensure a PCR is carried out before a child returns:

‘It is particularly important to have a PCR carried out if children are showing Covid 19 symptoms as any result can be genomic sequenced for any new variant of concern . Unfortunately Genomic sequencing cannot be done from  a LFT. The government’s roadmap sets out that controlling of variants of concern is an essential part of cautiously easing lockdown restrictions in England and therefore testing is necessary ‘

Therefore Lateral Flow tests are considered appropriate for detecting asymptomatic cases but not symptomatic cases.   If a child or household member is symptomatic then PCR tests can be booked online https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test and you can click for a ‘Local Authority’ test.

We thank you for your support in ensuring we follow the guidance issued to us to keep our NJS family safe.