SOUTH Wilts Grammar School has been chosen as one of only four schools in the country to participate in the final trials of a new mass testing programme for Covid-19. 

In a letter to parents last week, headteacher Michele Chilcott said the test the school is being asked to trial is specifically designed for schools. 

It is designed to see how well the test works within a school environment, how easy it is to use and how effectively it can be tested across large numbers of people in a short space of time.

The school say the test is non-invasive and is already proven to be safe, and will say within minutes if an individual is carrying the virus that causes COVID-19, even if they are not showing any symptoms.

The first round of the trial was due to take place this week.

In the letter, Michele added: "Taking part in this trial is voluntary for both students and staff. To participate in the trial individual consent will be required. Those under 16 will need parental consent and those over 16 years of age can provide their own consent.

"I believe that those who do choose to participate will see the benefit in terms of added certainty and reassurance as we head into the half term holiday.

"I myself will be participating. We are very pleased to have been invited to participate in this important research which could ultimately improve all of our lives by allowing COVID-19 cases to be more quickly identified and, in that way, play a vital role in how we combat COVID-19."