We know that some of you are feeling anxious about the possible consequences of the Covid-19 virus and your work within schools, we hope these questions and answers will help you feel more confident. Please call us if you want to know more.
It is important that you access information only through reliable and credible sources, 4myschools will only use government advice published on the link below. We do not want to make a drama out of this crisis and sticking to the facts will help everyone remain calm.
Click here for educational settings guidance
Am I able to order Lateral flow test to use at home before a booking?
Yes, anyone working in a school environment can order free lateral flow tests or collect them from their local hub.
Do I need to engage with Test and Trace if I order a lateral flow test?
The idea is that you complete the test and report the finding through the Test and Trace App
Do I need to inform 4myschools if I have a positive test?
Yes, you must inform 4myschools if you have a positive lateral flow test, we will then inform the school(s) you have worked in. Please make yourself unavailable for work for the specified time given from PHE on your Updatedge App
Do I need to inform 4myschools if I have a negative test result?
No, you do not need to inform 4myschools but if you are involved in regular testing with a school you may need to use their link provided and the Test and Trace facility.
Should I take a face mask or visor to every school including Primary Schools?
Yes, it is advisable to have a mask even in primary schools as you may be required to wear it in certain areas in large schools.
Should I take a mask or visor to Secondary Schools?
Currently, secondary school staff are wearing face masks unless social distancing is maintained, or you are exempt. Some secondary schools are providing PPE however this differs from school to school.
Do I need to take my own hand sanitiser to a school?
Schools are providing plenty of hand cleaning facilities however we would recommend you always have your own hand sanitiser.
Will I be provided with PPE?
Most supply staff are taking their own face masks or visors and hand gel with them to school and we are told there are plenty of spares if needed. Schools have worked very hard to make their environments safe for students and school staff.
Preventing spread of infection
There are general principles everyone should follow to help prevent the spread of the virus including:
- Wash your hands often – with soap and water or use hand sanitiser if handwashing facilities are not available. We recommend that you wash your hands:
- Before leaving home
- On arrival at a school
- After using the toilet
- After breaks and sporting activities
- Before eating any food, including snacks
- Before leaving a school
- Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in a bin.
- Catch it, Bin it, Kill it
- Staying at home if you feel unwell
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoiding close contact with people who are unwell
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces
- Calling NHS 111 if you are worried about your symptoms or those of a friend or relative. Do not go directly to your GP or other healthcare environments.
Please use current social distancing advise wherever possible.
Please note:
If you have been advised to self-isolate or believe that you may have been exposed to the virus please inform 4myschools immediately (we will then manage any follow up communication with schools, if applicable)
Covid-19 Stay at Home Guidance
All our teachers and support staff should continue to work in schools (unless advised not to by public health officials)
For any more questions or information, get in touch with us.
