So far so good as over 2,000 students go through college's new Covid test system
Like clockwork - the college test 'centre' - Credit: South Devon College
South Devon College completed over 2,000 ‘rapid’ Covid tests of pupils in their first week back since the Lockdown.
The college has developed a testing facility with a dedicated team of staff to guide and support students.
The staff have reported an overwhelmingly positive experience despite the unusual circumstances.
One said: “It’s also so rewarding that the students appreciate what we’re doing and showing them how to test themselves too. It’s gone really well so far.”
Smiling - one the 'testers' - Credit: South Devon College
Another said: "We expected to come in to seeing teenagers that were frustrated by the process but found they have been polite and complied without fault. With this continued attitude, we will see the end of the pandemic sooner rather than later.”
Students also praised the process with comments such as 'it was rapid' and 'not as scary' as they thought.
Kelly Sooben, Vice Principal - People and Resources, said: "The testing facility has run exceptionally smoothly. We recruited 50 new members of staff that are dedicated to the running of this facility, 40 of which are needed on each day for it to run.
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“Up until lunchtime on Thursday March 11, we have seen 2321 students tested since Monday March 8 , the day of reopening. Even better, none of those students tested positive.
Helpful advice - Credit: South Devon College
“The facility is a great development of our already existing smaller scale testing centre that we put in place for students that needed to be on-site during the lockdown that begun in January.
"With 15 swabbing bays, we now have capacity to complete 180 tests an hour, equivalent to over 1,000 a day. We are testing students three times and giving guidance before we issue them with home testing kits to complete future tests regularly from home as well.
“Huge credit is due for our students that have taken the whole process in their stride, but this would not be possible without our dedicated staff. It is very much a collective effort. It's truly inspiring to see and the college are proud of everyone involved.”
