COVID Update

COVIDSafe Behaviours

Key behaviours required for reducing coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission risk include staying home when unwell, performing regular hand hygiene, and where possible pursuing strategies to support physical distancing. 

Face masks are recommended when 1.5m physical distancing cannot be maintained.

The College will integrate these messages into everyday learning and practice, through role-modelling and formal and informal learning opportunities. Students and staff should continue to be vigilant and remain home if unwell. 

Further information can be found on the Department of Education Website.

Hand hygiene remains one of the critical measures to reduce coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission. Hands should be cleaned with an alcohol-based hand sanitiser or washed with soap and water for 20 seconds. 

Students are encouraged to cough or sneeze into their elbow or a tissue. 

Physical distancing will be encouraged where possible and density limits implemented in office spaces and areas generally accessed by the public, such as reception. Congestion within the school and at entry points will be avoided where feasible by adjusting drop-off and pick-up processes, signage and one-way flow of individuals in more confined spaces such as locker bays and the canteen.

Stay home when unwell

The most important action school communities can take to reduce the risk of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19), is to ensure that any unwell students remain at home and get tested, even with the mildest of symptoms.

Practice good hygiene

All staff, students and visitors to schools should undertake regular hand hygiene, particularly on arrival to school, before and after eating, after blowing their nose, coughing, sneezing or using the toilet. 

Sharing of food is not recommended. 

Use non-contact greetings (not shaking hands, hugging or kissing).

Face masks in schools 

As per the directions of the Victorian Chief Health Officer, the following actions are mandatory.

• Face masks to be worn by individuals aged 12 years and older when on public transport and school buses – unless you have a lawful exemption.
• Individuals aged 12 years and older must always carry a face mask.
• The same exemptions to the wearing of face masks apply in schools as when people are out in the community. This includes students who are aged 12 years and older and are unable to wear a face mask due to the nature of their disability. This also includes students or staff who have a medical condition, such as problems with their breathing, a serious skin condition on the face, a disability or a mental health condition.

Face masks are recommended for use by staff and students when physical distancing of 1.5m cannot be maintained. A face mask must cover the nose and mouth. Face shields, scarves or bandanas do not meet these requirements.

Face masks and hot weather 

It is important to follow the Victorian Chief Health Officer’s directions on wearing face masks, and there are steps that can be taken to improve comfort during warmer weather: 

• Keep hydrated with water.
• Use a single-use mask, or a reusable face mask made from 100 per cent cotton, for increased breathability.
• Wash your reusable mask frequently to maintain effectiveness and bring a spare so you can change your mask if it gets damp or wet.
• Take mask breaks throughout the day, when you’re in settings that do not require them to be worn.