Rugeley school launches rapid coronavirus tests for students without symptoms
A school in Staffordshire has been chosen to roll-out rapid coronavirus tests to as part of a Government pilot scheme to fight the pandemic.
The Hart School, based in Rugeley, was selected to take part in the initiative to help identify asymptomatic people and curb the spread of the virus.
Testing started this week as part of the scheme – with lateral flow tests, which give a result within an hour, being used to speed up the process.
Staff and sixth form students at the school, based on Penkridge Bank Road, volunteered to run the scheme with help from council staff.
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Headteacher Miss Rachael Sandham said: "We are pleased to be able to take part in this new initiative to support our comprehensive strategy of reducing the risk of spreading coronavirus in school.
"And we are very grateful to our staff and sixth form students who have kindly volunteered and signed up to this new initiative."
It comes after the school stepped up to help during the early period of the pandemic by making 26,000 face-shields for NHS staff and key workers across the country.
And plans have already been put in place to fight the pandemic after Christmas – with testing gradually expanded to ensure the virus doesn't spread in the school.
Miss Sandham added: "In the new year, we hope to develop a regular testing cycle and gradually expand this to other year groups. Taking this approach will provide increased confidence to look forward to a safe return to normality.
"Thanks to all parents and carers for supporting the school with this initiative."
