Dear Parents and guardians I hope the pupils have all had a lovely break. Here is a synopsis of the changes from next week.
- 1. The Government has accepted the recommendations of the NPHET to remove remaining restrictions relating to mask-wearing and physical distancing in schools. If members of staff or students wish to continue wearing face masks or coverings, they may do so.
- 2. There will be continued use of good infection prevention and control measures such as hand washing, respiratory hygiene, and ventilation .
- 3. Staying at home (if you have symptoms is still advised) because one of the key messages to manage the risks of COVID-19 so that we do everything practical to avoid the introduction of COVID-19 into the school.
- 4. Critical components of the collective response in relation to COVID-19 continue to apply including self-isolation if symptomatic (even if fully vaccinated/boosted) or if having a positive COVID-19 test. …..
- 5. We will now resume all normal school routines and normal teaching and learning activities.
- 6.School will continue to purchase of PPE, including hand sanitiser.
- 7.Cleaning and Hygiene in schools will continue.
- 8.Physical distancing is no longer required nor do we need to maintain class pods and bubbles. This will facilitate a return to all types of teaching. sports, singing and music and inter schools activities.
- 9.Staggered breaks, are no longer necessary.
- 10. Re: visitors to schools/Parent teacher meetings: we can revert to the normal arrangements for visitors. Please make an appointment through the school office if you need an appointment with your child's teacher.
- 11. Antigen testing arrangements for children in primary schools and special classes will continue with the current processes to support the provision of antigen tests to primary schools, special schools and childcare settings. Participation in antigen testing a voluntary, therefore it is not necessary for parents to share information with the school about whether they have requested antigen tests and nor to confirm negative antigen tests. However we really appreciate if you inform us and assure you it is in absolute confidentiality.
- 12. Children who are well should continue to come to school whether they participate in antigen testing or not. Best wishes Elaine
