Return to Parents

Attendance and Absence

Should my child still go to school if they test positive for Covid?

No.  From 1 April, anyone with a positive COVID-19 test result will be advised to try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days, which is when they are most infectious. For children and young people aged 18 and under, the advice will be three days this is after the day of testing.

www.gov.uk/guidance/people-with-symptoms-of-a-respiratory-infection-including-covid-19#Children

We have infection prevention and control measures in place that will help to manage the spread of infection:

  • Ensuring all eligible groups are enabled and supported to take up the offer of national vaccination programmes.
  • Ensuring occupied spaces are well-ventilated and let fresh air in.
  • Reinforcing good hygiene practices such as hand washing and cleaning.


The NHS gives the following advice on how long children should stay off school if they’re unwell.

Coronavirus (symptoms
or a positive
test)
Follow current Government and NHS guidance on isolation and testing in England.

For children and young people aged 18 and under, the advice will be three days this is after the day of testing.

Vomiting or diarrhoea 48 hours after the symptoms have stopped
Chickenpox When all the spots have crusted over – usually  at least five days after they first appeared
Impetigo 48 hours after starting prescription medication, or when the patches have crusted over if they aren’t taking medication
Scarlet fever 24 hours after starting antibiotics, or two weeks after the symptoms start, if they aren’t taking medication
Hand, foot and mouth As long as your child is feeling unwell – there’s no need to wait until the blisters heal
Measles At least four days after the rash develops
Scabies 24 hours after the first treatment
Shingles When the last blister has scabbed – usually 10 to 14 days after they first appear
Flu Five days

There’s no need for your child to stay off school with these conditions, unless they’re feeling unwell but please ensure they are receiving treatment :