‘This may have a dramatic impact’
Rapid Covid-19 tests begin for hundreds of students at college
HUNDREDS of students and staff at one of North Staffordshire’s top schools are being swabbed for Covid-19 as rapid testing is rolled out.
All children in Year 12 at Painsley Catholic College, in Cheadle, began undergoing Covid-19 tests on Wednesday.
And Year 13 students will then be tested on December 10.
Once the pilot has been completed, it is hoped the tests will be carried out at other schools in the county.
Steve Bell, chief executive of Painsley Catholic Academy, said: “The tests could have a dramatic impact on reducing the virus as they will identify asymptomatic positive individuals who will then self-isolate.
“This has the possibility to radically reduce disruption to schools, and children’s education.
“We are proud of the contribution of the Painsley community in the fight against the virus.”
The new rapid flow tests can provide results in around 20 to 30 minutes.
It is hoped they will help identify members of the school community who have the virus, but may have no symptoms, ahead of the festive season.
Schools in Stoke-on-trent are also piloting the tests, but which ones have not yet been revealed.
Dr Johnny Mcmahon, cabinet member for health, care and wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council, said: “We’re busy rolling out these rapid tests to all parts of the community, including businesses and schools.
“With schools, we have been doing our best to minimise the disruption to pupils when there is a positive case.
“These rapid tests will help, as they will ensure anyone who may have the virus and is not displaying symptoms can be identified before they go into their classroom, hopefully reducing the risk of their fellow classmates coming into contact with the virus.
“Our schools have been working incredibly hard during this difficult time to ensure pupils do not miss out on their education.
“The more we can help them protect pupils and deal with Covid-19 incidents as quickly and efficiently as possible, with the least disruption to other pupils, the better.