Dear Parents and Caregivers,
I believe that after a change in Premier and the Return to School Roadmap, the NSW Government’s path out of lockdown and return to face-to-face teaching is now settled.
At 9.00 am Thursday morning, Premier Perrottet announced changes to the published return to school schedule. Pending changes to the Public Health Order and any guidelines applicable to our LGA, the new schedule will be:
Stage 1: 18 October 2021
Beginners, Kindergarten, Year 1, and Year 11
Stage 2: 25 October 2021
All other year groups (Yr 12 are already participating in revision and masterclasses)
Schools have the flexibility to determine their own schedule for the staged return so please realise this schedule varies slightly to the Department of Education. We have chosen to reintroduce Yr 11 onsite in the first stage of return. Our return is supported by a COVID-19 Safe Plan.
Next week, 11-15 October, remains a week for students of authorised workers only, and it is necessary for our community to adhere to this plan wherever possible.
Please be assured that the College has conducted a rigorous risk assessment and management processes to reduce the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak at the College. These strategies include the Department of Education’s Health endorsed guidelines, and other strategies including:
– Physical distancing and separation of cohorts where possible
– Mask wearing (I understand that further discussions are underway on the wearing of masks in schools and as soon as this is clarified, you will be notified)
– The adequate provision of hand sanitiser and soap
– Enhanced cleaning schedules
– Ventilation
– Ensuring that staff and students do not attend the school with symptoms of COVID-19
This revised return to school schedule does not impact on the requirement for all school staff to be double vaccinated by 8 November 2021 as required by the Public Health Order. From the 18 October, all staff will have at least one level of vaccination. Please contact us if you have a concern about this or would like further information.
Please see below specific details for both the Primary and Secondary Schools. I trust this helps you plan for the next three weeks.
Primary Return to School Schedule
Stage 1: Monday 18 October – Beginners, Kindergarten and Year 1
Stage 2: Monday 25 October – All other year groups
Primary Aged Children and Masks
The mandatory wearing of masks for Primary aged students is not a requirement, rather a recommendation. Further information may follow pending NSW Health Advice.
Primary School Morning Drop-Off
8:20am onwards, Kiss ‘n Drop Zone. Parents to remain in cars where practicable; Physical distancing and adult wearing of masks required.
Afternoon Pick-Up
2:30pm, Kiss ‘n Drop Zone. Parents to remain in cars where practicable; Physical distancing and adult wearing of masks required.
Secondary School Return Schedule
Stage 1: Monday 18 October – Year 11 and Year 12
Stage 2: Monday 25 October – All other year groups
Year 12 students will continue to be prioritised as they prepare to complete their final year of schooling, undertake focused study sessions, and transition to further education, training and work.
While at school, appropriate face masks are required indoors and outdoors for all students in Year 7 and above. Students and staff travelling to and from school by public transport must follow NSW Health Advice, including mask wearing.
Thank you for your unwavering support at this time and may God bless you and this extra family time that you’ve been able to experience.
“But we will trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Psalm 20:7
Regards,
________________________________
Sharon Sopher
Principal
Belmont Christian College
Phone: (02) 49228300
Email: college@bcc.nsw.edu.au
Web: www.bcc.nsw.edu.au
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Street: 65 John Fisher Road, Belmont NSW 2280
Post: PO Box 492, Belmont NSW 2280