Students returning to Ashby School this week will receive three lateral flow tests during the first two weeks back.

Ivanhoe College will also have a phased return to the classroom and has sent a detailed letter to parents telling them how the procedure will work.

School across the country re-open today as part of the Government's roadmap out of lockdown.

Ashby School and Ivanhoe College, like many others, is taking steps to ensure all pupils stay safe and the return to classrooms is being phased.

A recent letter to parents from Head Teacher Geoff Staniforth said: "You will be aware that students will be returning to school from 8 March.

"As part of this process, they will have three lateral flow tests during the first two weeks so we can identify anyone who may be carrying the virus but does not have any symptoms.

"This is particularly important for our students. Nationally, the virus is now most common in younger people and North West Leicestershire is now one of the highest areas for infection rates.

"By testing all the students. we can try to avoid the situation we had last term where large numbers of students were having to isolate as they had been close contacts.

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"The return to school will be phased, but we hope to have all students tested and back to normal lessons by Thursday, 11 March.

"Mask wearing will be compulsory at all times when inside any of the building.

"This is including in lessons. The recommendation is a double layer mask. Students who have a medical exemption will not need to wear a mask and will have a card to show.

"I hope your son or daughter is looking forward to coming back to school and we can all start to get back to a normal routine."