24 March 2020
Dear Parents/Carers,
I am aware there is confusion in the Australian community around messages from the various levels of government. I write to provide clarification for you in relation to Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.
Current Health Advice
The current health advice does not recommend or require school closures at this time. The Minister for Education in the ACT has stated that schools are safe places for students and staff and that schools are open for all students that need to attend school. We will continue to closely monitor health advice to ensure both student and staff safety.
You may wish to access the national health advice as follows:
https://www.health.gov.au/news/australian-health-protection-principal-committee-ahppc-coronavirus-covid-19-statement-on-22-march-2020
Catholic Education, Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn
Our position is as follows:
- In line with the NSW and ACT Governments, Catholic Education strongly encourages parents to keep their children home if they are able. If you do decide to keep your child/children at home, please notify the school in writing. Thank you to the many parent who have already sent us this notification.
- Our Catholic schools will remain open to students until the end of Term 1, Thursday, 9 April. This is to support parents and carers, particularly those providing essential services at this time, who are unable to provide care for their children. Students will be supervised at school and participate in a remote learning program. There will be no formal classes.
- At this time, low or minimal attendance of students at schools will support teachers to prepare for remote learning for all students. We are committed to providing students with quality learning opportunities as we prepare to offer a single program of learning that may be accessed in school or remotely. This will develop with time. No student will be disadvantaged by the current changes.
- Catholic Education in Canberra and Goulburn is prioritising the safety and wellbeing of students, staff and families.
I encourage you to visit the COVID-19 Information and Updates resource page on the CE website which contains current information, resources and useful links. This page is updated regularly.
I understand the concerns in our school community during this challenging time. I hope this letter clarifies some of the confusion for you. I ask for your continued patience and cooperation as we work through the current issues.
Please email the College office is you have any questions.
Best wishes
Stephanie O'Meara