Teachers are the fifth group in line for priority coronavirus testing, health secretary Matt Hancock revealed today. 

Speaking in the House of Commons, he outlined the need for “prioritisation” of Covid-19 testing kits as demand was outstripping supply.

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Mr Hancock told MPs: “We need to prioritise the tests on those who need the most to save lives, protect the most vulnerable and make sure our health and care services and our schools can operate safely.

Coronavirus: School staff prioritised for tests

“Today we’ve published our list of where tests are being prioritised, setting out how we will make sure tests are allocated where they’re needed most.

“First, to support acute clinical care.

“Second, to support and protect people in care homes.

“Third, NHS staff, including GPs and pharmacists.

“Fourth, targeted testing for outbreak management and surveillance studies.

“Fifth, testing for teaching staff with symptoms, so we can keep schools and classes open.

“And then the general public when they have symptoms, prioritising those in areas of high incidence.”

Mr Hancock confirmed that those who were clinically vulnerable would be prioritised for tests, along with care homes and NHS staff.

“The testing capacity we have is valuable. And we must together prioritise it for the people who need it the most,” he added.