Closed petition Test all schoolchildren in England weekly for Covid-19

Closed on 8 March 2021

To reopen schools safely, we ask the government to introduce weekly Covid testing of pupils. The Children’s Commissioner for England and the Royal Society's DELVE group have said routine testing is an essential, cost-effective way to prevent transmission and keep our communities safe.

Asymptomatic cases account for 40% of community Covid transmission, and possibly more among school-age children. In September, many children will spend the day in 'bubbles' of up to 240 children with no social distancing. Without regular testing, many will contract the virus unknowingly, putting their loved ones at risk. Families, especially those with vulnerable members, are having to face the anxiety of sending children into a school environment.