1 October 2021

Dear Parents/Carers

COVID Cases in Hazel Class

We have been made aware that there have been positive cases of COVID confirmed within Hazel class.  Your child has been identified as a direct contact. Following an increase in positive COVID cases amongst pupils and staff, we have been in close collaboration with Sandwell Education and Public Health as it is apparent that we need to implement more robust measures to protect the school community.  These measures have been agreed by all parties, including the Governing Board.

Public Health have advised us that all direct contacts in Hazel should stay away from school until Monday 4 October, but they do not have to self-isolate.  Pupils should take a PCR test and if these tests are negative, they can return to school on Monday 4 October.

We are aware that a number of pupils in Hazel were on Transport Route 3 and have already done a PCR Test.  However, Public Health have advised that because they would have had contact with the pupil testing positive on Monday 27 September, any PCR tests done early this week may not have picked up any COVID infection.

You can arrange a PCR test via this link  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/get-tested-for-coronavirus/.  When the online form asks for the reason for taking a test, please choose the option “I’ve been told to get a test by my local council, health protection team or healthcare professional”.

If your child develops any of the following symptoms at any point during their isolation, please arrange another PCR test:

  • new continuous cough and/or
  • high temperature and/or
  • a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia)
  • headaches
  • aches and pains
  • feeling very tired for no good reason
  • sore throat
  • runny nose
  • sneezing
  • tummy ache/upset tummy in children.

If your child’s PCR test comes back positive, please ring the School on 0121 561 6884.   We would be grateful if you could send a copy of all test results to headteacher@westminster.sandwell.sch.uk.

If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the School.

Yours faithfully

 

O M Flowers
Head Teacher