Implementation of Phase 1 Return to School

Implementation of Phase 1 Return to School

Dear Parents and Carers,

I wish to thank you again for the support you have shown over these difficult times. In line with Department of Education guidelines there is to be a phased return to school model from Monday 11 May.

Ensuring our school is a safe place to work and learn is paramount. The Phase 1 return model allows us the opportunity to test our health and safety procedures with increased numbers of students and staff on site.

We are limited to 15 students in classrooms during Phase 1. I ask again that unless it is absolutely necessary that you please continue to keep your student at home except for their allocated day so that we can provide adequate supervision in line with Department guidelines and our staffing capabilities. 

In Phase 1 all classes are continuing online Remote Learning. Whether at school or at home, students in Years 7 to 10 will be engaging in the online work in class time following the simplified timetable of 3 sessions each day. On their designated day, students can seek clarification and assistance in class time directly from a supervising teacher. Students will be expected to hand in work given out as hard copies if they have not already done so.

Year 12 continues to be our priority. For Senior students there will be more explicit teaching but work will still be available online for students unable to attend. Seniors will also be able to access practical activities as needed.

Expectations

The safety of students and staff is a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the numbers of students and staff increases on our site there are some expectations that everyone needs to follow:

•  Our normal code of student behaviour will be applied, especially concerning the health and safety of others.

•  If a student is unwell they are to stay at home. Any student showing cold or flu like symptoms must be picked up from school. They will not be able to remain in our school clinic.

• Engage in regular handwashing especially before eating at breaks. Spray sanitiser will be available in all classrooms.

• Remain 1.5m apart wherever possible. Classrooms will be limited to 15 students.

• Do not share drinks, food or equipment. Students must bring their own equipment (pens, pencils, calculators etc) as these items will not be provided by staff. Students will use the same Laptop/Chromebook/Computer at school during Phase 1 and these devices will be cleaned at the end of each day.

Uniform: Students are expected to be in full school uniform on the days they attend.

Canteen: The canteen will be operating with a limited menu at recess and lunch only. Lunch can be ordered before school or at recess. Cashless payments are preferred. Breakfast Club will not be operating at this time.

Library: The library will be closed at recess and lunch to ALL students to enable cleaning to occur.

Sport/Excursions: There will be no sporting activities or excursions until further notice.

Q and A

Do I have to send my child back to school or do I have the option to continue Remote Learning?

The Government and Department of Education are encouraging students to return according to each school’s Phase 1 Plan. We believe it is in the interests of students’ learning and wellbeing, however, it is not compulsory to attend school at this time. Roll marking will still occur in the online platform.

Can I change my child’s day of attending school?

Generally NO, to enable us to manage a complex and challenging variation of routine and supervision.

I have been sending my child to school full time as I am an essential worker. Can I continue to do this?

Yes – this has always been an option, however, if this pushes a 7 - 10 class over 15 students then they will be supervised in a different location.

At Macksville High School our return schedule will be:

Student Return Days from May 11

Monday            Year 7 and 12

Tuesday            Years 11 and 12

Wednesday      Year 8 (Years 11 and 12 – option - Library with Senior Mentor Teacher)

Thursday          Years 10 and 12

Friday                Years 9, 11 and 12

If we all adhere to the expectations and procedures outlined above we can be confident in ensuring everyone’s safety during this phased return to school. The situation remains fluid and is still dependent upon Department of Education and Government information. I will continue to endeavour to make our school a safe and healthy place for staff and students.

Please take care.

Erica Lyne

Principal