Wrexham Council inform parents of all secondary school pupils of Covid-19 precautions

With primary, Key Stage 4 and sixth form pupils returning to school this week, the council is urging parents of all secondary pupils that they should wear face masks when in the classroom and communal areas where it is not possible to socially distance.

The only exceptions are during mealtimes and when outside.

A spokesperson for the council, said: "The wearing of masks will help reduce any spread of Covid-19 in our schools.

"Any pupil who travels on schools transport should also wear a face mask whilst travelling."

School pupil wearing a face mask. Photo credit Owen Humphreys/PA Wire.

The Minister for Education and the Minister for Health and Social Services has announced that the offer of regular, voluntary, twice weekly, Lateral Flow Tests will be available for older pupils in secondary schools and all teaching staff and these are being delivered to schools across Wales.

The tests will initially be available to Years 10, 11 and 13 and will reduce the risk of asymptomatic transmission.

Anyone who tests positive using a Lateral Flow Test (LFD) must not attend a school or setting, and they and everyone they live with must self-isolate immediately whilst doing the following:

• report the test result online
• book a follow up a PCR test through the online booking portal
• notify their school of the result

More information on the specific detail of the processes are being finalised by schools who will be in touch with parents direct once they are ready.

In order for face to face learning for our secondary school learners to take place parents and carers are asked to:

• remain vigilant
• keep a distance at the school gates
• try to influence their children not mix socially outside of school
• not send learners into school if they are unwell, have symptoms or have tested positive for Covid-19.

Stock image of face masks

Cllr Phil Wyn, lead member for education, said: "We all recognise the need to get pupils back into school as soon as possible, but we must also recognise that the virus is still in our communities.

"Please ensure your child wears a face mask where required and takes part in the LFD testing process if they’re in secondary school.

"Identifying asymptomatic testing will reduce transmission of the virus and help us all to return to normal as soon as possible.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all pupils, carers and staff for their dedication and commitment during these very difficult few months."