Covid-19 update: January 2022

We hope students are continuing to enjoy their courses and their return to college. This short communication will bring you up to date with the latest developments related to Covid-19 and how we are responding to this. 

Reported cases of Covid-19 in the College have slightly increased this week but at this point in time, there is no sign of transmission taking place on our sites.

Thank you for continuing to wear your face coverings when you are inside the College. This measure is helping to reduce the risk of transmission which usually happens when indoors and people are close together. Ultimately, wearing a face covering is reducing the risk that you will catch Covid-19, which would require you to self-isolate and prevent you from continuing your studies in college. It is also reducing the risk to both other students and staff, including your teachers.

If you are exempt from wearing a face covering, you will need to talk to your teacher who will ask you to complete a short form. You will then be issued with a green ID badge holder which allows us to clearly identify you.

Reminder of the testing and reporting process

Please continue to test yourself at home twice weekly with a lateral flow device - kits are still available from each of our reception areas. The government now advises regular testing even if you have had Covid-19 within the last 90 days. 

If you test positive via a lateral flow test but do not have any symptoms, you will not need an additional PCR test but you must follow the guidance on self-isolation.

If you develop any Covid-19 symptoms (including those of the Omicron variant - a sore throat, runny nose and a headache) and have a positive lateral flow test, you must take a PCR test and follow the guidance on self-isolation. 

Anyone testing positive with a lateral flow device must self-isolate and report their result to NHS Test and Trace. To enable us to keep track of cases within the College and quickly take any required action, please also email covid19.absence@gbmc.ac.uk, your tutor, and complete this form.

Thank you for ensuring you are keeping up to date with the latest development.