Dear parent/carer

Over the last few weeks there has been a rise in the Delta Variant of COVID-19 which has meant that we need to be extra vigilant as we move in to the Summer holidays. Students have all received home testing kits to continue testing over the Summer. To reduce the spread of the virus, it is important to identify those individuals who may have contracted the virus so that they can take the appropriate actions to keep themselves, families and friends safe. We can all do this by continuing to carry out tests at home twice every week, 3-4 days apart. You need to report test results via https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result or by calling 0300 303 2713. This can be found on page 15 of the instruction leaflet.

The government has recently announced that all schools will be required to carry out testing on the return to school in September 2021. This will mean that all students will be tested in school on their first day back (September 6th 2021) and then again on the Thursday morning. This is voluntary testing, however, we do strongly request that students carry out this testing to keep themselves, their families, friends and staff safe.

This consent form is for participation in tests designed to detect asymptomatic coronavirus cases. Anyone experiencing symptoms should follow government guidelines to self-isolate, even if they have had a recent negative lateral flow test.

Consent relates to the following groups of students/pupils and staff as follows:

• For pupils and students younger than 16 years - this form must be completed by the parent or legal guardian. Please complete one consent form for each child you wish to participate in testing.

• Pupils and students over 16 who are able to provide informed consent - can complete this form themselves, having discussed participation with their parent / guardian if under 18.

• For any pupil or student who does not have the capacity to provide informed consent - this form must be completed by the parent or legal guardian. Please complete one consent form for each child you wish to participate in testing.

By completing this  online form and returning, you agree to your child being tested in school on their first week back.