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Information about the coronavirus (Covid-19)

This page collates and signposts to appropriate lesson plans, posters, educator training, guidance and other relevant resources, to support education and childcare settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Information about the virus

COVID-19 is a new type of coronavirus that causes illness in people by affecting their lungs and therefore their breathing.

The most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are a new, continuous cough, a high temperature (over 37.8 degrees) or loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia).

For most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild infection. However, sometimes it can be severe or in some cases, fatal.

It can be spread from person to person by coughing, sneezing or touching surfaces or areas of skin that have been contaminated by the virus.

Fortunately, vaccinations have been discovered that can reduce the chances of you catching and spreading coronavirus, and reduce the risk of serious illness and death caused by the virus. Further information regarding who is eligible for the vaccine and how they can be booked can be found found on the NHS COVID-19 Vaccination Page.

How to avoid catching or spreading microbes

Do:

  • stay at home (self isolate) if you or someone in your household has any of the main coronavirus symptoms
  • wash your hands with soap and water often, for at least 20 seconds
  • use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available
  • cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
  • put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
  • clean objects and surfaces you touch often (such as door handles, kettles and phones) using your regular cleaning products
  • keep windows open in shared spaces, as much as possible

Don't:

  • Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
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'My Back to School Bubble' e-Storybook

The storybook 'My Back to School Bubble' has been created with the input from a network of teachers, parents and public health professionals and aims to help children understand the new protective measures that may be in place at their school, in an age-appropriate way.

The e-Book is a joint venture with NABU, a global non-profit organisation who are passionate about creating stories for children, that are inclusive for all. 'My Back to School Bubble' adds to NABU's existing collection of stories addressing COVID-19, this time exploring the changing school environment.

Relevant lesson plans

KS1 Hand hygiene

KS1 Respiratory hygiene

KS2 Hand hygiene

KS2 Respiratory hygiene

KS3 Hand hygiene

KS3 Respiratory hygiene

Posters

Hand hygiene poster
Respiratory hygiene poster