Dealing with the uncertainty of Covid -19 in 2022

As we all start to settle into the new school year, there is an ever present feeling of uncertainty about what’s being called ‘living the new normal with Covid -19.’

The last 2 years have been challenging for most of us, because being creatures of habit, we are most comfortable when we are settled and have structure and routine in our lives.

Covid – 19 has changed the way we are living and is having an impact on your school environment.

It might be helpful to clarify some of the concerns l am hearing from, teachers, student and parents in the hope that it will alleviate some of the stress and anxiety we are experiencing.

What is a close contact?

There are now 2 types of definitions for a close contact –

1. Household or House-like Contact – this is when you have spent more than 4 hours with someone who has Covid – 19 inside a house, accommodation or care facility. For information on the steps to follow you can go to www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au

2. ALL OTHER CONTACTS – this is the one that related to schools, this is when someone who has Covid-19 has informed you that you are their social contact, or a workplace or education facility has informed you that you are a contact.

In this case staff and students at school are strongly recommended to use a RAT – (Rapid Antigen Test), twice a week during school weeks.

I would like to reassure all students that the school is following all the government requirements to keep everyone as safe as possible and to keep your school open to minimise the amount of disruption to your school year. Back to School Plans can be found at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/back-to-school-plan

COVIDsafe measures are in place (Ventilation, Vaccination, Vital COVIDsafe steps).

The teaching staff at your school are here to support your mental, physical and social wellbeing, so please reach out and talk to someone if you are anxious or worried about how Covid -19 will affect your school year.

If you found you are impacted by Covid -19 and need to be away from school, remember that there are many supports being put in place to help, if you are finding it difficult tutoring and other assistance can be arranged so you can manage your education.

Here are some helpful tips:

The teachers are available and can respond to a range of student health and wellbeing needs.

Please contact your teacher and/or school Principal to talk about how to get some support.

The 24/7 Coronavirus Hotline 1800 675 398 is open 24 hours 7 Days a week for support and information.

Robyn Lyons

SchoolTV Special Report- Understanding Adolesence

Adolescence is the transitional stage of development that is usually associated with the teenage years. In 2018, the Australian Curriculum Assessment Authority, redefined adolescence as affecting young people aged between 10-24 years. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.

It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition https://edenhope.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence

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