Harrogate Grammar School have revealed their plans for the return to school with additional Covid-19 safety measures in place.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson outlined his ‘road map’ for the easing of lockdown restrictions earlier this week and revealed schools will be able to return from Monday 8th February.

And Harrogate Grammar School are planning to implement asymptomatic voluntary tests, regular staff testing and face coverings to be worn in lessons from Monday 8th March, as well as home testing for all students from Monday 22nd March.

Headteacher at Harrogate Grammar Neil Renton outlined the measures after receiving new operational guidance from the government on the full return to school for pupils across the country.

New safety measures

Mr Renton assured parents and guardians that all of the measures that were previously in place will remain the same when the school reopens, but there will also be a number of additional control measures:

  • Three asymptomatic voluntary tests in school from Monday 8 March – Monday 22 March: this will be offered to pupils onsite from Monday 8 March. Students will return to face-to-face education the day after their first negative test result.
  • Home testing from Monday 22 March: following three onsite tests, students will move to a home testing model. Students will be provided with 2 tests a week to use at home. We await the delivery of these testing kits to school.
  • Staff testing: staff will also be provided with two home testing kits each week.
  • Face coverings in lessons: until Easter face coverings must also be worn in lessons where social distancing cannot be maintained. This does not apply in situations where wearing a face covering would impact on the ability to take part in exercise or strenuous activity, for example in PE lessons.

Mr Renton also addressed the concerns of students and parents/guardians in his letter:

“We recognise that whilst students and staff are very much looking forwarding to returning to school, some individuals will inevitability have worries and concerns.

“We will therefore issue a further communication confirming our plan, seeking formal consent and with a new opening guide so that you have more detailed information. We are very much looking forward to the return of students and thank you for your continued support.”

Harrogate Grammar School are seeking the help of parents/guardians to plan and confirm testing arrangements, and have asked them to complete a short survey about whether they and their child consent to take part in the asymptomatic testing. This survey can be found here and must be completed by Thursday 25th February.

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