New Covid safety measures in place as KGV and Southport College students enjoy return to class

Students at KGV Sixth Form College and Southport College return to class today (Thursday 6th January) with new Covid safety rules in place. 

Earlier this week, the government issued new guidance for secondary schools amidst the rise in Covid-19 Omicron cases. 

KGV and Southport College leaders are now asking students to do all they can to keep themselves and others safe. 

A College spokesperson said: “Term starts today (Thursday January 6th) and we are looking forward to seeing you.

“To help keep our college a safe place to study and work, please ensure that before you set off for college you have completed an “at home” lateral flow Covid-19 test and that the result is negative. 

“Please also remember your face covering, as in line with new government guidance, face coverings must now be worn during lessons and whilst in the college corridors and communal areas.

“Thanks for your cooperation!”

All secondary schools have been asked by the Government to provide one on-site test for pupils ahead of their return to the classroom this term to help reduce the transmission of Covid-19.

Education staff and college students are being asked to self-test at home before they return, and were sent home with tests ahead of the Christmas break.

Schools and colleges ordered tests before Christmas and have received these in advance of pupils returning, and will continue to be able to order additional tests through a separate supply route. Schools and colleges made test kits available to pupils before the end of term and they will have access to more as needed.

Students returning to university have also been advised to test before they travel back to campus.

Secondary, college and university students and education staff and early years staff should then continue to test themselves twice a week, and more frequently if they are specifically asked to do so, such as in the event of an outbreak.

12-15 year olds are encouraged to get fully vaccinated (two doses), to ensure they are protected. 16 and 17 year olds are now eligible for boosters and are being strongly encourage to take up this offer when invited to do so, along with university students.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said:

“Being in face to face learning is undoubtedly the very best place for children and young people’s education and wellbeing, and my priority remains on keeping early years settings, schools, colleges and universities open so that face-to-face education can continue.

“As we enter this new term, I want to thank all staff working in education for their continued dedication and resilience. It is through the hard work of all of you that we have ensured, and will continue to ensure pupils and students get the learning that they deserve. We must continue to look forward and not forget how far we have come in our fight against this virus.

“The very best way we can continue to protect ourselves and our families is by getting the booster, or second jab if you are aged 12-15 – as soon as possible. I urge anyone who hasn’t done this to do so now.”

Proportionate safety measures will also remain in schools, colleges and universities to help reduce the transmission of the virus, including increased ventilation and good hygiene, with older students and staff wearing face coverings.

All early years settings, schools, colleges, and universities are advised to continue to follow the latest guidance set out by the department which is kept regularly under review.

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