Schools safe for new year

Virus protocols in place

SCHOOL returns for Tasmanian students this week, with a sense of optimism that 2021 will be relatively free from the disruptions that plagued last year’s learning.

Private and Catholic schoolkids go back from Tuesday while most public students return from Wednesday, including more than 4000 who are starting kindergarten, more than 4000 starting high school and more than 4000 starting Year 11.

“We are pleased to welcome back students across all sectors of education in Tasmania, along with our dedicated teachers, principals, leaders and school staff,” Education Minister Jeremy Rockliff said.

“Last year certainly saw many unexpected challenges, but our school communities showed incredible resilience to overcome the unusual circumstances presented by COVID-19.”

From term one, arrangements are in place at public schools allowing parents and carers to visit for meetings, events, presentations, assemblies and volunteering.

A department spokeswoman said that included carers dropping off and collecting children from classrooms.

“Venue density and physical distancing of adults on school sites is required in line with Public Health advice and, on this basis, parents and carers are requested to limit their time spent on school grounds,” the department said.

Cleaning and sanitiser stations will remain in place on campus and schools will keep a record of all adult visitors.

This year another nine Tasmanian schools are offering Year 11 and 12 classes as part of the government’s extension program, which is now running in 56 schools.

Those starting the extension this year are Brooks, Cosgrove, Montrose Bay, Queechy, Riverside and Exeter high schools, Bothwell District High School, Woodbridge School and the school in the Ashley Youth Detention Centre.

Mr Rockliff has previously said he looks forward to receiving a proposal from Taroona High School soon to extend to Years 11 and 12.

Katrina Brazendale of Bothwell, whose son is starting Year 8 at the local district high school, said the extension to Year 12 was a great opportunity for the community.

“I think it’s really positive for the rural community, particularly given a lot of students travel in to Bothwell from places like Miena,” she said.