All pupils and staff from Falkirk High school are to be tested from Friday 4th June as a precaution following the detection of the new ‘Delta’ Covid-19 variant in a number of staff and pupils.

The mobile test centre will be located at the school until Tuesday 8th June 2021 and is open between 10am and 5pm each day. No appointment is necessary, although all pupils under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Remote learning will also be introduced for Falkirk High pupils from Friday 4 June until Friday 11 June.

Household members of pupils and staff from the school are being encouraged to get tested at a separate unit located at Abbotsford House, David’s Loan, Bainsford where capacity has been increased for PCR Covid-19 tests. Tests at this location should be booked via NHS Inform or by calling 0300 303 2713.

The decision to move to remote learning and carry out enhanced testing has been made following detailed discussions between Falkirk Council, NHS Forth Valley, Public Health Scotland and the Scottish Government as part of a series of actions to try to prevent the new Delta variant from spreading more widely and resulting in the need for more prolonged or additional control measures. Almost all senior pupils have completed their SQA assessments, however there are still a small number who are self-isolating, and the school is making plans to support them.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: “We’re putting in the mobile testing unit to ensure that both staff and pupils can get results quickly. The decision has also been made to move Falkirk High to remote learning was not taken lightly however we recognise the concerns of pupils, parents and staff.

“Testing remains an important part of preventing the Covid-19 virus from spreading. We would encourage everyone connected with the school to get a PCR test as soon as possible.”

Dr Henry Prempeh, Public Health Consultant, NHS Forth Valley, said: “Taking action now will help prevent further spread of Covid-19 which is why we are asking all pupils and staff, along with members of their households to get tested over the next few days.”

“This is really important to help us identify any additional positive cases as many people with Covid-19 do not have any symptoms.”

Further information on Covid-19 is available on the NHS Inform website.