04 June 2020

We are all in this together

Article by Mr Michael Timms

We are all in this together

We are all in this together

As we prepare to transition back to onsite learning it is important to ensure that all families are aware of some of the new guidelines and protocols that have been put in place to protect the safety of everyone onsite. The attached document outlines an extensive list of procedures and expectations in relation to COVID-19; I would encourage families to ensure they familiarise themselves with this document.

There are a few points from this document that I would like to highlight:

Students Feeling Unwell

At Home:

- Do not send your son/daughter to school if they are showing any flu like symptoms or are generally feeling unwell. Parents contact the School, as per normal, to advise that their child is not able to attend.

At School:

- If a student is unwell at school:

* they are to inform their teacher IMMEDIATELY

* go to Front Reception where the student will be taken to the designated first aid room. The Reception staff will phone home and parents will have to arrange for the student to be collected from school.

*If a student or staff member is tested for Covid-19 it is recommended for the safety of others that they remain home until they have received their test results.

Yard

- The College has created specific areas for year levels at recess and lunch, to further reduce the likelihood of large numbers of students in one area.

- Students are required to bring to school every day their own:

o Water bottles (to be filled up at taps around the school). Water fountains will be closed.

o Lunch and snacks (to reduce the need to go to the canteen)

Physical Distancing

- Students are encouraged to maintain physical distance from others where possible and are not to engage in physical contact when greeting staff or other students

- Physical activity is encouraged at recess and lunch, however students should maintain physical distancing where possible. No physical contact should occur during sport played at recess and lunch, e.g. no tackling

Hygiene Practices

- Students should cover their mouth and nose when coughing, sneeze with a tissue, or cough/sneeze into thier elbow

- Students should use the Sanitiser units FREQUENTLY throughout the day that have been installed in every classroom in the school and in corridors

As we move our attention to having all students back onsite, it is important to highlight the steps that the College will take if there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 of one of staff or student’s. As part of our proactive approach the College has established an extensive Outbreak (Covid-19) Management Strategy that ensures we are ready if there is a confirmed case within our College. The following are some of the steps included in the strategy:

- College would go into Lockdown

- A mapping exercise would be utilised to determine level of infection throughout the College.

- Isolation would occur of staff and students who have possibly been infected.

- Full evacuation of the College could occur, utilising the local bus company.

- School closure (min 24hrs).

- Cleaning company to perform deep clean of infected sites and general clean of the College.

- Parents notified of College reopening.

This is an important strategy and will assist the College greatly if the need arises.

A final reminder that all students should arrive on Tuesday June 9 in full winter uniform. The Bellarine Uniform shop is now operating under normal opening hours, if you require any specific items.

I am sure there will be mixed emotions for some of our students and families when all pupils return to onsite learning next week. I am hopeful all students will make a smooth transition back and I look forward to continue working with all our young people and families.

Kind regards

Michael Timms Deputy Principal [Students]

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