Updated: Covid Testing Rolled Out Across Guildford Education Partnership Schools

Published on: 9 Jan, 2021
Updated on: 12 Jan, 2021

This story was updated on Monday, January 11, 2021, with extra information supplied and a correction to the original press release issued

By David Rose

Staff and those pupils currently attending the secondary schools, who are members of the Guildford Education Partnership (GEP), have this past week been given the fast turn around Covid lateral flow tests.

Lateral flow testing involves a swab of the nose and throat to collect a sample, which is then inserted into a tube of liquid for a short time. Drops of liquid are added to the test strip and after about half an hour a result will be shown.

Picture from George Abbot School’s Twitter feed showing the set up for the Covid testing.

In a statement from GEP it said it has instituted a rigorous testing programme at its secondary schools to “remain Covid-secure, protecting not only the staff and students, but all of their loved ones at home as well.”

At George Abbot School in Burpham, more than 120 tests were processed within 24 hours between Tuesday and Wednesday, January 5 and 6, all of which came back negative.

At Kings College in Park Barn, 87 tests were carried out all of which were negative, and at Fullbrook Academy, that is actually in New Haw, of 186 tests, 98 tests were provided for students and 88 for staff.

The headteacher of George Abbot School, Kate Carriett, said: “We take the safety of our community very seriously, and our ability to test our pupils and staff is a vital aspect of ensuring that our school remains a safe haven for those who continue to come through our doors.

“Our students have showed great maturity in taking their tests and we are very proud of them for their continued resilience during what we know is a truly challenging time.”

Information for how the tests are carried out, as published on George Abbot School’s website.

The chief executive of GEP, Jack Mayhew, added: “We are both proud and grateful to be able to offer efficient testing to our staff and students every week.

“We all know that keeping everyone safe is the top priority, and we are doing our part to stop the spread while continuing to welcome vulnerable students into school and those from key worker families.”