End of school bubbles and tests to replace isolation

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has told parliament of government plans for schools as the country moves to step 4 of England's roadmap out of lockdown (expected 19 July), saying that key restrictions will come to an end.

Stagger times for schools and colleges will no longer be necessary - although they can continue until the end of summer term if desired, and social distancing will no longer be needed. Adults who have been fully vaccinated will also not have to self isolate if they are in contact of a positive case, providing they test negative.

From 16 August, children and young people under the age of 18 will no longer have to self-isolate if they are contacted by NHS Test and Trace as having been near to someone with coronavirus. Instead they will be advised to take a PCR test. Children must self-isolate if they have symptoms of Covid or a positive test result.

There will be no restrictions on in-person teaching and learning in universities unless students are advised to isolate or are affected by local outbreaks.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "I am incredibly grateful to everyone working in education and childcare for their tireless work to make the best of what has been a very challenging situation.

"While the pandemic is not over, we are moving into a new phase of managing Covid, from strict rules and towards personal responsibility. The measures we will have after summer strike the right balance as we learn to live with the virus so children can get on with their lives and education in the best possible way."