Parent Bulletin No. 36
Dear Parent/Carer
As you may well be aware, the last fortnight has seen a rise in cases of Covid 19 in the North Wales areas with the Delta variant becoming the dominant strain in new cases. Here at Argoed there have been a number of cases within Year 7 resulting in that year group having to self-isolate. We would advise that unwell pupils (all years) go for a PCR test if they have any of the extended symptoms of Covid. If any pupils have difficulty booking a PCR test they should explain that they have been instructed by a Contact Tracer to do so. Asymptomatic pupils (all years) we would advise take their LFTs; report through and upload any positives
At school, we continue to follow guidance to help reduce the transmission of the virus and it’s important that outside of school all staff, children and their families continue to follow Welsh Government coronavirus guidance. Where cases do emerge, it is crucial that those asked to isolate do so. Isolation works to reduce the transmission of the virus and you will be asked to isolate for up to 10 days by Public Health Wales. Where you are asked to isolate this should mean that you remain at home during this period. During this period, you should not go outdoors to exercise, to visit shops, family or friends, or to other public spaces. Please do not invite people to your house or mix with others from your school even those within the school group who may also be isolating.
At the end of the period of isolation you should only return to school if you are and any other members of your household are free of any Covid-related symptoms. These are:
- A new persistent cough
- Fever and/or loss of taste or smell
Together with the recently identified symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Myalgia (muscle ache or pain)
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Vomiting or diarrhoea.
If these symptoms develop you should seek a PCR test as soon as possible. In addition to isolation, the use of Lateral Flow Tests will also help in identifying asymptomatic cases.
Any pupils having had a PCR test, school must receive a copy of the result as soon as possible.
All staff are encouraged to take the tests twice a week and this offer has also been extended to all Secondary aged pupils. The more people who undertake these tests the greater opportunity to reduce potential transmission of the virus and anyone not currently taking part in these tests are encouraged to do so. Testing kits are regularly distributed to pupils who wish to take them and the school office holds stock. This school year has presented significant challenges to us all and I hope that we can continue to work together to minimise the spread of the virus.
Centre Determined Grades and Appeals
Any students who queried their grades will receive their Learner Decision Records on Monday. This will help inform their decision as to whether or not to appeal the awarded grade. Further information can be found on our website under the section titles GCSE Arrangements 2021.
Parent Governor Vacancy
Thank you to those parents who have expressed an interest in this vacancy. We will be holding a ballot from Tuesday June 29th and votes must be returned by Monday July 5th. Information on the candidates along with ballot forms will be emailed out in the usual way.
Year 8 Parents Evening
The Year 8 Parents Evening will be held virtually this Tuesday from 3:30 – 6:00pm. Appointments can be made via the school website. There will be an event for parents of Year 7 pupils the following week at the same time.
Have a pleasant weekend everyone.
Yours faithfully
Mr P Smith
Headteacher