EHPS Contact

COVIDSafe Guidelines

The current COVIDSafe guidelines for our school community are defined in the School Operations Guidelines provided for all Victorian government schools by the Department of Education & Training (DET). We seek your support and cooperation to ensure that our school and the wider community remain as safe as possible as we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

Advice for Parents

 

Tests

Rapid Antigen Tests have been provided for every student and staff member over this first week of term. It is recommended to do a RAT twice a week on school days. 

Nasal Swab Technique
How to do a RAT nasal swab on children

 

Which COVID test do I need to take? When should I get a rapid antigen test?

Most people should get a rapid antigen test as their first option, particularly if you have symptoms or are a contact of someone who has COVID-19.

  • If you have symptoms or are a household or household-like contact who must get tested, and you can't access a rapid antigen test, you can get a PCR test.
  • You can use a rapid antigen test if you want to quickly check if you may have COVID-19, for example, before attending a crowded event, social gathering or visiting vulnerable people
  • Rapid antigen tests may be used as part of an established surveillance program such as one organised by your school or your employer

When should I get a standard PCR test?

  • If you have symptoms or are a contact of someone who has COVID-19, and you can't access a rapid antigen test, you can get a PCR test.
    • If you do not have symptoms and you are not a contact, and you test positive on a rapid antigen test, we recommend you get a PCR test to confirm that result. We do not recommend this if you have symptoms, or you are a contact.
  • If required for other reasons and you have been directly advised.

Where do I get a rapid antigen test?

  • You will be able to purchase a test kit from supermarkets, pharmacies or online from selected suppliers.
  • The Victorian Government is also in the process of purchasing additional rapid antigen tests which will be made available free of charge in coming weeks.

Face Masks

Face masks are compulsory for all adults onsite and Years 3 to 6 students. Teachers are exempted only when teaching in the classroom; face masks must be worn at all other times.

 

Ventilation and Cleaning

The school has received air purifiers from the Department of Education & Training. These have been installed around the school.

Classrooms and office areas will be naturally ventilated as much as possible during the school day. 

 

Arrival & Departure at School

Each year level have specific locations designated on the school boundary for arrival and departure. Families with two or more students at EHPS are to arrive and depart from the location for the youngest sibling at school on that day. To assist with social distancing, the following departure arrangements apply:

  • Prep & Year 1 - depart at 3.20pm
  • Years 2 to 6 - depart at 3.30pm.

Delivery of Items to Students at School

We encourage you to ensure that your child has everything they require for school before they leave home each day. However, sometimes it is necessary to deliver items to school. Parents delivering items (e.g. lunch, water bottle, hat) must phone from the front gate in Essex Road to inform the Office that an item is to be delivered, and then come to the Office door but not enter reception, and wait for our staff (usually Cassy or Jo) to collect the item. If you enter reception, you will be required to sign into the Visitor's Register and for contact tracing (QR Code or manual register), including providing confirmation of your COVID-19 vaccination (preferably certification on your smart phone).