A Message from the Principal

Lachlan Foott

Dear Parents/Carers,

We find ourselves in the middle of the sixth week of remote learning and beginning to think about the return to onsite learning. For the parents of Prep, Year 1 and 2 students, the return is imminent, but for parents of Year 3 to Year 6 students, it is still three weeks away. As students return to onsite learning, we must have confidence in the cautious approach of the Victorian Chief Health Officer and Premier Daniel Andrews. The schools are only now reopening, because the health experts have deemed it safe to do so.

As the day for the return to school gets closer for your child, you may notice a change in their behaviour or they may express anxiety or fear about returning to school. Take the time to sit down for a deliberate conversation and reassure them that the decision to return to school is based on expert medical advice. Reassure them that they are safe at school and our school is doing everything it can to ensure ongoing safety. Reassure them that it is normal to have some mixed emotions about it, but ultimately it is in their best interests to return to school to learn and see their friends. We have included a tip sheet from Minds That Matter Psychology for parents to refer to when having these conversations with your children. If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please contact your class teacher or our Wellbeing Leader, Anthea Georgiou (ageorgiou@sahighett.catholic.edu.au). We have engaged Minds That Matter Psychology to offer onsite social and emotion support to those students and families who need it. Again, contact Anthea if you wish to explore this option.

There have been a number of protocols set by the health authorities and delivered by Catholic Education Melbourne, which we must adhere to. We are able to adapt these protocols to suit our school context and are fortunate that our student numbers make the implementation of these protocols quite simple. As a Principal, there is nothing more important to me than the health and safety of our students and staff.

Please refer to the CareMonkey letter sent out today to the school community for details on how we will continue to implement health, safety and hygiene practices to keep your children and our staff safe.

Stay well and stay safe.

Lachie

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