BRPS iNewsletter

COVID-19 Update

Department of Education Guidelines

Department of Education - Updated COVID Guidelines

In support of previous communication regarding a rise in winter illnesses among staff and students, including COVID-19, the following is updated guidance from the Department of Education around keeping our school safe and operational. 

  • Rapid antigen testing. It is recommended that rapid antigen tests (RATs) are used by students and staff:
    • If you have symptoms of COVID-19 infection, no matter how mild
    • If you are a household or close contact of someone who has COVID-19
    • If you are a social contact of someone who has COVID-19. 
    • The Department of Health recommends that all Victorians should report their positive RAT result to the Department of Health online, or by calling 1800 675 398.
    • Students (or their parents/carers) should also report a positive result to their school, either through the COVID Test portal or by phone or written notification.
    • We still have plenty of RATs available if you need any for your child or any member of your household. Please contact the office if you would like a box or 2.
  • Face masks
    • Staff and students who wish to wear a face mask will be supported to do so, and we have face masks available for staff, students and visitors.
    • The Department of Health recommends that masks should be worn by a person who is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 when leaving home. 
  • Management of suspected cases of COVID-19 in schools
    • A ‘suspected’ case means a person who displays any COVID-19 symptoms who has not yet tested positive for COVID-19. 
    • The staff member, student or visitor who is symptomatic should be recommended to undergo testing for COVID-19. Parents of students who are symptomatic should be asked to collect their child from school and to keep them home until they are no longer symptomatic.
  • Management of confirmed cases at school
    • Students who report a positive result are recommended to isolate for a minimum of 5 days and not attend school until their symptoms have resolved. 
    • There is no longer a requirement for principals to inform the school community of a positive case associated with the school.