School pupils who test positive for Covid in a 'rapid test' will have to isolate with their families for 10 days, a minister has said - even if a non-rapid test comes back negative a few days later.
Children's Minister Vicky Ford gave the crucial update today as millions of secondary pupils begin taking "lateral flow" tests to return to class.
Her comments could raise concerns that thousands of families will have to isolate due to what is effectively a "false alarm".
It comes as secondary pupils begin a staggered return to schools from today, with tests and masks in the classroom. Secondary pupils in England are being asked to take three rapid tests under supervision at school in the next fortnight.