11 March 2021

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I hope everyone is well and looking forward to the full resumption of school next Monday.  We have consulted with Public Health on the guidelines on how to manage symptoms and the potential impact on siblings-this will become increasingly relevant next week.

If a household member has any of the Covid-19 symptoms (common, sometimes or rare) then all household numbers should restrict their movements (not attend school) pending a G.P. assessment.  This assessment is free and it is vital to use it in these circumstances. 

If the G.P. deems that no test is required, then the siblings can return to school (the child with symptoms needs to be symptom free for 48 hours before returning, to avoid the spread of any other bugs in the classroom).  If a test is required, then siblings continue to restrict movement until the result is confirmed.  We appreciate that this is potentially very inconvenient but it is necessary in order to keep such a crowded environment safe and it is the advice of Public Health. 

The symptoms of Covid-19 are:

Common: Fever or chills, a new cough, shortness of breath, loss or change in sense of smell or taste, fatigue, aches and pains.

Sometimes: Sore throat, headaches, runny or stuffy nose. 

Rare: Feeling sick or vomiting, diarrhea.

If your child has any of the symptoms above, you should not send them or their siblings to school pending a consultation with your G.P.    If your child develops any of these symptoms while is school, we will follow our procedures around isolation and ask that they and their siblings are collected.

We appreciate the school community’s help and co-operation in keeping everybody safe.

Go raibh maith agaibh,

____________________________

Peter Jennings

Principal