Covid-19 tests for secondary school pupils in parts of London, Kent and Essex

Mass testing will be rolled out to secondary school children in the worst-affected areas of London, Kent and Essex, the health secretary has said.

Matt Hancock said "by far" the fastest rise in coronavirus infection rates in these areas was in 11 to 18-year-olds.

This age group in these areas should be tested regardless of symptoms, he said.

"We need to do everything to stop the spread in school-age children now," Mr Hancock said, adding that more details will be set out on Friday.

It comes after Londoners were urged to "stick by the rules" this week amid fears the capital - in tier two - may be put under tier--three restrictions following a rise in Covid-19 cases.

Meanwhile, all secondary schools and further education colleges in Wales will move classes online from Monday, Welsh education minister Kirsty Williams has announced.

07/12/23Ashford school to make students lock their phones in pouches

A school in Kent is planning to make students put their mobile phones in a locked pouch during the day. The John Wallis Academy in Ashford will introduce the measure in the new year. Principal Damian McBeath explained that he hoped the rule would limit disruptions in the school and help with safeguarding. Mr McBeath said he thought the academy would be the first school in Kent to use the pouches.

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