Final Checks Academy CIC

COVID-19 Policy

Date Reviewed: September 2024
Next Review Date: September 2025 

1. Policy Overview

Final Checks Academy CIC is committed to maintaining an up-to-date COVID-19 policy to ensure the health and safety of all learners and staff. All learners and staff members are tested weekly using lateral flow tests. We encourage everyone to regularly consult the official government website for the latest guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Lateral flow tests can be ordered here:
https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests

As of Thursday 20th January, the government announced that masks are no longer mandatory in schools and further education settings.

2. Preventing the Spread of Infection

To reduce the risk of spreading respiratory viruses, all individuals should:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap is unavailable.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who is unwell.
  • Stay home if feeling unwell and avoid attending work or the academy.
  • Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue and dispose of it immediately.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces regularly.
  • Contact NHS 111 if symptoms worsen or for medical advice; do not visit a GP or healthcare facility without prior consultation.

3. Travel and Self-Isolation Guidance

Category 1 Countries/Areas:
Includes Wuhan city and Hubei province (China), Iran, Daegu or Cheongdo (South Korea), and certain Italian towns under containment measures (from 19 February 2020 onwards).

If you or your children have returned from these areas within the past 14 days:

  • Self-isolate for 10 days after leaving the area. Fully vaccinated individuals may reduce isolation to 5 days with negative test results.
  • Contact NHS 111 immediately if unwell or in an emergency call 999.

Category 2 Countries/Areas:
Includes Cambodia, China (excluding Wuhan/Hubei), Hong Kong, northern Italy (from 19 February 2020), Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea (excluding Daegu/Cheongdo), Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

If you or your children have returned from these areas within the past 14 days and are well:

  • No need to avoid contact with others or change activities.
  • If symptoms develop, stay indoors, avoid contact, and contact NHS 111 immediately.

4. Symptoms to Monitor

Watch for:

  • Cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fever (38°C or higher)

If symptoms develop, avoid contact with others, stay home, and seek medical advice via NHS 111.

5. General Hygiene and Safety Measures

  • Do not travel while sick.
  • Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing; dispose of tissues properly.
  • Wash hands regularly and thoroughly.

6. Support and Contact

For any concerns or questions, please contact the academy:

  • Phone: 01708 59644
  • Email: info@final-checks.com

7. Guidance for Home Isolation

If advised to self-isolate:

  • Stay at home except for medical care. Avoid work, school, public areas, and public transport.
  • Arrange for groceries and medications to be delivered with contactless drop-off.
  • Stay in a well-ventilated room separate from others; use a separate bathroom if possible.
  • Wear a facemask if in the same room with others or when visiting healthcare providers.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues; dispose of tissues safely and wash hands immediately.
  • Avoid sharing household items such as dishes, towels, and bedding.
  • Wash laundry thoroughly; use a dishwasher or wash by hand with detergent and hot water.
  • Do not have visitors unless essential and approved by medical contact.
  • Limit contact with pets and wash hands before and after contact.
  • Dispose of waste safely in sealed bags and follow instructions if COVID-19 positive.
  • Monitor symptoms and seek medical help if condition worsens.

8. Negative Test Results and Returning to Normal Activities

  • If tested negative after travel to Category 1 areas, continue to self-isolate for 14 days from return.
  • If tested negative after travel to Category 2 areas, self-isolate until symptoms resolve or 14 days have passed, whichever is sooner.
  • If exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case, remain in isolation for 14 days regardless of test results.
  • If symptoms worsen during isolation, contact NHS 111 for advice.

9. Summary

Final Checks Academy CIC is committed to safeguarding the health of our community by following government guidance and promoting responsible behaviours. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation in maintaining a safe learning and working environment.