Families Get Free Twice-Weekly COVID Tests as Schools Reopen
From 8 March, families with children at primary, secondary, and college levels can test themselves at home twice a week. This includes support and childcare bubbles. The move is a key part of England’s plan to safely ease lockdown as schools open and more socialising resumes later this month.
Why Testing Matters as Kids Head Back
- Testing will help catch COVID-19 cases fast, stopping outbreaks in schools.
- Secondary and college students get three tests at school before switching to home testing twice weekly.
- Primary kids won’t be tested regularly without symptoms due to low transmission but must get tested if unwell.
- Adults in school communities—bus drivers, after-school club leaders—also qualify for free testing twice a week.
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “One in three people with COVID-19 don’t show symptoms. Regular targeted testing keeps more positive cases out of schools and colleges.” He emphasised how testing, along with the vaccine rollout, is critical for safely reopening society and keeping schools and workplaces open.
Education Chief and Health Experts Back Testing Push
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson added: “Bringing all children back to school is vital for their wellbeing and education recovery. Family testing adds another safety layer, reassuring parents and staff.”
Professor Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at Public Health England, urged families to take up testing, calling it “quick, painless and lifesaving”. She highlighted testing’s role in spotting hidden cases and breaking chains of transmission before outbreaks happen.
How to Get Your Tests and What You Need to Know
- Households with school and college children can collect free lateral flow tests starting 1 March.
- Tests can be picked up at local sites, workplaces, or ordered online for home delivery.
- Positive lateral flow results require confirmation via a PCR test.
- Testing remains voluntary but is strongly encouraged to help keep infection rates down.
Testing is already widespread, with millions done in schools and workplaces, including NHS and social care staff. Local authorities are fully on board with community testing to reach vulnerable groups and small businesses.
Schools won’t be responsible for distributing test kits or managing home testing processes. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should book a test online or call 119 immediately.
