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Summary of new rules
For some time, it has been increasingly felt how much children and students have lost not only due to lockdowns, but the continued isolation with school bubbles and close contact self-isolation rules. The Department for Education figures show that in the autumn term (2020), some 33 million days of school were missed by pupils observing Covid isolation rules. More recently, the latest official statistics for England show the number of pupils out and self-isolating due to Covid hit a record high of 641,000 pupils and only 28,000 of these had a confirmed case of Covid-19. The recent announcements have now declared end dates to some rules, so we have provided a summary of key dates with rule changes.
The following is a list of key dates with rule changes:
19.7.21:
- The Covid testing regime for pupils will be transferred to the NHS track and trace system.
- Use of bubbles will end.
16.8.21:
- Under 18s will not have to isolate unless they themselves have tested positive for Covid.
September 2021
- All schools will be asked to offer pupils two Covid tests at the beginning of the autumn term as a one-off event.
For consideration from the 19.7.21:
- Wearing a mask will be a personal choice, however, advice states to wear a mask in indoor crowded places when you come into contact with people you do not usually meet, e.g. On public transport, supermarkets, airports, but this will no longer be mandatory.
- Good hand hygiene
- Cleaning routines
Holidays Abroad rules
As we approach the summer holidays and easing of rules, many are planning holidays abroad so here is a summary of current rules, but these can change quickly so keep checking the government website.
In general, you need to take a Covid test within 48hours before you travel and have negative result; complete a passenger locator form; book and pay for a Covid test on day 2 and 8 of your return. Any positive result anywhere means quarantining/self-isolating for at least 10 days. Rules can change quickly, and countries can change from amber to red; keep up to date and keep checking rules. Remember these are the rules for returning to England and there will a separate set of requirements set out by the country to which you are travelling and you will need to be keep up to date about these too.
Green countries: a negative test needed to enter, no self-isolation required on return, but you still need to book and pay for a Covid test on day 2 on your return to England. Green list areas include the Balearic Islands, Iceland, Gibraltar, Australia and New Zealand.
Amber countries: from the 19.7.21, the government is not advising against travel to amber listed countries and those adults who have been double jabbed do not have to self-isolate or quarantine on return. Children under 4 are exempt from taking a Covid test on day 2 and 8. Amber list countries as of July 9th include France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany and USA.
Red countries: advice is not to travel there.