97 per cent of students return to Felpham Community College

Felpham Community College

Over the last two weeks, Felpham College has completed over 3,500 tests on students. 

Back in January, The MP for Bognor Regis and the Schools Minister Nick Gibb told the commons that the government would "prioritise the reopening of schools as we begin the process of lifting lockdown restrictions".

Just over two months later, schools and colleges have re-opened but prior to the return of students attending lessons, the authorities announced pupils will have to under go twice a week rapid lateral flow testing. 

A spokesperson from Felpham Community College told us that they have all been "so grown up about it" and the "organisation from our lateral flow team has also been really impressive.

"We did all the testing with school staff unlike other schools who have had to use agency staff or buy in helpers.

"The atmosphere about it all, for something that should be scary and unsettling, has been incredible."

Meanwhile, nationally the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) has warned that attendance levels will “be bumpy” as pupils testing positive for Covid-19, and their close contacts, are still being sent home to self-isolate.

The data suggests more than 60,000 pupils were out of class last week as they were self-isolating due to a possible contact with a Covid case.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “It is fantastic to see the overwhelming majority of children have now returned to the classroom, with all the benefits that face-to-face contact with their teachers and friends is proven to bring.

“I do not underestimate the preparation that has taken place to ensure our children could return safely and continue with their education and I am so grateful to the teachers and school staff who have made the transition so seamless – as well as managing testing and maintaining all the wider protective measures still in place to help keep everyone safe.”

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