Q. What can I do to help?

Help your childminder, nursery, pre-school group, school or out-of-school club by making sure that they have your up-to-date contact details - your address, phone numbers (home, work and mobile) and e-mail details as appropriate. They will need to get in touch if there is a case of swine flu confirmed among the children or staff and they suspect that children may be at risk.

On attendance & school closures

Q. Should I send my child to school or nursery if they show signs of any flu-like illness?

If your child is unwell and you are concerned about their health you should first contact NHS24 (08454 242424) or your local GP by phone for advice. Also tell the school or nursery.

Q. What if a pupil or staff member at the school is suspected of having or being tested for the swine flu virus, or is known to have it?

If this happens, the education and health authorities will liaise very closely and decide what is the appropriate action to take - which may involve temporary closure. Parents and pupils will be kept advised.

Q. What are my rights as a parent to keep my child off school or nursery if I am concerned?

If your child is at school and the school remains open, your normal responsibility to send your child to school still applies. Contact the school though and discuss your concerns with them.

Q. Who decides when schools should close; and in what circumstances?

Some schools and childcare services may have to close in order to help stop the virus spreading.  That would be a local decision taken by the authority or school or employer, but one very much based on local or national health advice.

Q. Would alternative arrangements be made for childcare if schools or nurseries are closed?

No, because the principal purpose of such closures would be to minimise the spread of infection by closing places where children come together in groups.

On the SQA examinations

Q. Are the exams going ahead as planned?

It is very much business as usual. The exams have already started and run through until 12 June. Candidates who will be taking their examinations over the next few weeks should continue to study as normal for them.

Q. What will happen if schools have to close during exam times?

The SQA, the Scottish Government, local authorities and others are all monitoring the situation closely. Contingency plans are already in place and are being kept under ongoing review in the light of the changing situation. They are designed to minimise disruption to the examination process for all candidates. Parents and candidates will be kept advised.

Q. What if my child is ill and unable to sit an examination?

The SQA has well-established procedures for candidates who are prevented by illness or other circumstances from taking their examinations. The copy of “Your Exams 2009”, which all candidates have been provided with, explains the procedures. It can also be found on the SQA website www.sqa.org.uk

Q. Would my child’s results be affected?

The SQA's priority would be to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and not disadvantaged and that their work would be assessed and appropriate qualifications awarded.

Scottish Government

6 May 2009