A staggering 93% of mainstream secondary school pupils have engaged with the national rapid testing programme, thanks to the stellar effort of local secondary schools.
Wokingham Borough Council has been working closely with schools throughout the pandemic and has spoken with headteachers to understand how the rollout of testing has gone as they welcome all pupils back.
Testing in schools
Upon returning, all secondary pupils were asked to have three rapid tests at school and under the supervision of a trained operator, and a fourth test using a home kit. From this week they should then take twice-weekly tests using home test kits provided by their school.
The findings are a testament to the hard work all schools have put in to getting the programme up and running, as well as the confidence they’ve instilled into pupils and their parents/carers around regular rapid testing. Especially as engagement with rapid testing is voluntary.
Fantastic results
UllaKarin Clark, executive member for children’s services said: “We are so proud of the efforts of our local schools in getting this up and running. Secondary school staff have been working with their communities to ensure as many pupils get tested as possible and the results are fantastic.
“As restrictions continue to ease, these tests will be very important for finding asymptomatic cases of Covid-19 and stopping the spread. We want to thank all of our mainstream secondary schools and we will continue to offer support and guidance where needed.”
Household testing
In addition to this, households and childcare/support bubbles of school staff and pupils are also being encouraged to get tested regularly.
One of the easiest ways to do this is to visit one of the council’s rapid test centres, located at their Shute End offices, the Microsoft Campus at Thames Valley Park and at Sindlesham Court. You can book an appointment in advance through the council website, or turn up on the day at the Microsoft Campus and Sindlesham Court.
Home test kits can also be ordered for home delivery or collection at a nearby PCR test site (Bracknell Leisure Centre, Prospect Park, or the University of Reading) through the Gov.uk website.
Keep our communities safe
“We are urging anyone who is eligible to get a rapid test,” said Cllr Clark. “This is for people without coronavirus symptoms and is a good way to keep your loved ones and communities safe.”
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