Dave Layzell MP, Member for Upper Hunter today noted that students in Upper Hunter start their first day of Term 3 today under strict COVID restrictions.
Mr Layzell said the schools are prepared and ready to keep students safe as they return to school.
“Unfortunately, we have all been through this before, but it means we know what to expect and how to get ready,” Mr Layzell said.
“Teachers have been preparing since last week and schools had carried out preparation checks last term to ensure they can implement the necessary health restrictions.
“Schools are safe places and the NSW Government is supporting them throughout the pandemic.
“I want to thank parents, students, staff and the wider school community in advance for cooperating with the NSW health regulations.”
For the first week of Term 3, students will be back at school for face to face learning in regional areas, however:
Schools will restrict non-essential visitors at school sites, including parents
Adjustments will be made to some activities, such as choir and band
Masks will be recommended for all staff in all school settings, and students from Year 7 upwards.
More hygiene and safety supplies are also being sent to schools across NSW so they can operate in a COVID safe way throughout the Term.
An additional 9.3 million masks will be sent to schools across the State by the end of next week.
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said she was confident schools will continue managing the pandemic well, and that our teachers remain committed to putting the education of their students first.
“We need to work together to keep our community safe – wearing masks and checking in with the Service NSW QR code is the most effective way to assist NSW Health to protect the community through contact tracing,” Ms Mitchell said.
Mr Layzell continued, saying essential early childhood education and care services, including before and after school care, will remain open to families throughout the ongoing restrictions in NSW.
“These educators are some of the unsung local heroes, and do their part to help maintain stronger, safer communities,” Mr Layzell said.
“We are asking parents and carers to wear a mask during drop off and pick up, and whilst always doing drop off safely to also do it as quickly as possible with minimal contact,” Mr Layzell concluded.
More information on the restrictions at schools outside Greater Sydney restrictions is available at: https://education.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/advice-for-families/schools-outside-of-greater-sydney1
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