Morning all
I do hope that despite all the lockdown precautions you have been able to have some downtime these holidays and are able to continue to do so over the next week.
As announced by the Prime Minister yesterday we will not be returning to on-site learning for the beginning of Term 4. I know this will be disappointing for many of you, but rest assured we are still here to support you with Distance Learning for as long as is required and will be looking forward to having you back on site when Alert levels allow.
Two further announcements were made by the Prime Minister yesterday. These include mandatory testing of all school staff before returning to work onsite and mandatory vaccinations for staff. Please see further information below about these and other aspects for Term 4.
Distance Learning for start to Term 4
From next Monday 18 October all students will continue with distance learning with information about what is required on our Learn at Home spreadsheet and via google communication from your teachers: Please make sure you click on the Term 4 tabs at the bottom of the spreadsheet to see the appropriate tasks.
Onsite supervision
At level three we will be providing supervision to those students in Years 9 and 10 who have no other supervision options. Mrs Wolfgram will be in touch directly with those students who this applies to, in order to confirm your attendance next week.
NCEA
We are expecting further information from NZQA about NCEA and any further changes in this area. We will of course pass this on to you all as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, we are here to help – your teachers and Mentors will be in touch from next week. They can help you with assessments and completing the credits you need this year.
Mandatory testing for staff
All staff will be required to return a negative COVID-19 test before returning to work onsite. There is no requirement for students to get tested, however, if you have been at a location of interest, or have any COVID-19 symptoms then you should call Healthline and follow their advice about being tested.
Mandatory vaccination for staff
Secondly, all staff in schools will be required to be fully vaccinated by the 1st of January next year. We are currently working through this with our staff to ensure we meet our obligations in this area.
Vaccinations for students
Finally – the best thing that all members of our community can do in order for us to get back to onsite learning is to get vaccinated! There are multiple ways to do this, including Super Saturday this weekend.
I will be in touch again as we get further information from the government and the Ministry of Education. In the meantime, please stay safe and well and enjoy the remainder of the holiday break.
Ng mihi
Louise