Secondary pupils reminded to test twice weekly

Secondary school pupils are being reminded to test twice weekly to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 this winter.

The government advice, which comes as schools reopen after the half term break, also applies to students at UCM.

Anyone with symptoms is asked to stay at home and arrange for PCR test.

Those between the ages of 12 and 17 are also being reminded they can now register for their first dose of vaccine.

Education Minister, Julie Edge said keeping students in the classroom over the coming months is a "government priority".

She added: "Young people have missed a lot of time in the classroom since the beginning of the pandemic and there is no substitute for face-to-face learning.

"Vaccines are our best defence against COVID-19. 

"I encourage all those eligible to get vaccinated and everyone to test regularly.

"This will help to detect cases early and keep students in school," she continued.