Assistant Principal's Report 

Dear parents and carers,

The Victorian Government has announced further easing of restrictions under COVID-Safe Settings, effective from 11.59pm, Thursday 24 June 2021. 

On the advice of the Victorian Chief Health Officer, the easing of restrictions in regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne will remain in place for at least two weeks. 

Key changes in the easing of restrictions include:

1. Density limits:

• In regional Victoria, a density limit of 1 person per 2 square metres applies to staff areas, such as staff lunchrooms, and areas accessed by the public, such as reception areas.
• In metropolitan Melbourne, a density limit of 1 person per 4 square metres still applies to these areas.

1. Face-masks:

Importantly, over the school holiday period there has been no change to the face mask advice, which will continue to apply to all Outside School Hours Care holiday-programs. 

• Secondary school students aged 12 or older must carry a face mask at all times and wear a face mask indoors when at school, including when attending an Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) program, unless a lawful exception applies.  Face masks are recommended to be worn outdoors where physical distancing of 1.5m cannot be maintained. 
• Children under 12 years of age and students at primary school are not required to wear face masks when at school, or when attending an OSHC program. 
• Face masks are mandatory for all school students aged 12 or older on public transport and when in taxis or ride share vehicles.  This includes travelling to and from school on public transport or in a vehicle with others not from your household. 
• Visitors and parents must also observe face-mask requirements. 

A reminder that parents, carers, and visitors can enter school grounds; however, they must adhere to density limits and check in using the QR codes. 

Thank you for a wonderful term and have a safe and happy holiday. 

Statement of Commitment to Child safety 

South Oakleigh College is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. This will be the primary focus of our care and decision-making.

South Oakleigh College has a zero tolerance for child abuse.  We are committed to providing a child-safe environment where all young people are safe and feel safe, and their voices are heard about the decisions that affect their lives.  Our child-safe policies, procedures, strategies and practices will be inclusive of the needs of all children, with cultural and particular awareness and sensitivity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, children from linguistically diverse backgrounds, children with disabilities.

Every member of the South Oakleigh Community has a responsibility to understand the important and specific role they play, individually and collectively, to ensure that the wellbeing of all children and young people is at the forefront of all they do and every decision they make.  If you believe that a child is at immediate risk of abuse, phone 000 straight away.

Mark Picone 

Assistant Principal