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Dear Families,
Thank-you to all families for your continued suppport and understanding as we navigate our way towards the 'new normal'. It would be fair to say that the landscape in which we are operating as a school is incredibly complex. This is compounded by the fact that restrictions and safety measures are adjusted on a regular basis.
As a school operated by the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL) significant guidance is being provided to us in line with the Department of Health and Education. Our primary focus is to ensure a healthy and safe school environment so that we can remain open for face to face learning. As educators we also have a strong focus on uninterrupted learning and teaching time in light of the disruptions experienced through 2020. Although we are back at school for face to face learning, it is important that families remember that it won't be a 'normal' Term 4 at St. Patrick's.
School photos will be going ahead later in the term. Advice at this stage is that no group photos will be taken, with only individual and sibling photos available. The date for this is Monday 16th November and information about ordering photos will be sent home in due course.
We are mindful of our year 6 students who are commencing their final term of primary school. In particular, how we acknowledge and celebrate this important milestone. It is still unclear how this will look and we will keep families informed as the term progresses.
Transition dates for students enrolled in Foundation for 2021 are being finalised. Families can expect to receive confirmation of these dates early next week.
Thank-you to our SRC for organising the footy colours day today. There was much excitement (and some friendly banter) amongst the students this morning as they compared team colours. The kicking competition at lunchtime was a highlight.
Have a great weekend.
Nick
If a child becomes unwell at school with any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, we will contact families for the child to go home.
If your child has any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, please seek medical advice.
When a child is tested for COVID-19 the child cannot return to school until a negative result is confirmed.
If at any point you are unsure, please don’t hesitate to contact us for clarification.
We know the above requirements may pose as a challenge for families, however the health and safety of students and staff is of the utmost importance.
Student absences can be reported via the website Absentee Form
Physical Distancing will see adjustments to:
- school gatherings (eg Assembly, Gospel, morning line up)
- student line up
- drop off and pick up routines
- staffroom arrangements
Hygiene
- increased environmental cleaning with an emphasis on high touch surfaces
- regular washing of hands
- students bring a water bottle for refilling
Quick Response to signs or symptoms
- students and staff who are unwell with any COVID symptoms ~ stay home and get tested
- children with symptoms (even the mildest) will go home
Symptoms include fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose and/or loss of sense of smell. In certain circumstances headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also be considered.
Face Coverings/Masks
- worn by all adults
- children may choose to
Temperature Testing
- student temperatures will be checked each morning on entry to the school grounds.
- a student who has a reading of 37.5 or higher will be isolated and parents will be contacted to pick the child up.
School Access
- only students, staff and authorised visitors will be permitted onsite
Friday 23rd October - Statewide Public Holiday
Monday 2nd November - School Closure Day
Tuesday 3rd November - Melbourne Cup Public Holiday
Monday 16th November - School Photos
tbc - Grade 6 Graduation
Wednesday 16th December - Final day for students (3.30pm finish)
NB: dates are available from the school calendar on the website St Patrick's Public Calendar