May 12 – College update on COVID-19

Dear Parents, Guardians and Carers of St Patrick’s College,

RE: Return to on-site learning

The last few weeks of flexible and remote learning have been challenging for everyone in education. It has been a difficult period as we have all adjusted to new ways of learning and teaching.

We are now grateful to hear some confirmation around the State Government’s planned, staggered return to on-site learning.

As it has done so throughout the COVID-19 crisis, St Patrick’s College will continue to abide by the State Government’s advice. This is in the interests of the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff.

As such, we can now plan for our Year 11 and Year 12 students to return to school for on-site learning on Tuesday, May 26 and for Years 7 – 10 to return on Tuesday, June 9. We are seeking further clarification around boys in Year 10 currently studying VCE Unit 1 and 2 subjects, VET and VCAL subjects.

Remote and flexible learning will continue being offered for Years 11 and 12 until May 26, and for Years 7-10 until June 9. Students who currently meet the criteria for on-site learning will continue to be accommodated. All parents are reminded that students must remain at home whenever they are displaying any cold or flu-like symptoms.

All students will be expected to wear full winter uniform, including appropriate hair styles, when they return to class.

In line with State Government advice, Monday, May 25 will be a student free day to allow our teaching staff time to prepare for the return of students.

St Patrick’s College will require all its staff and students to comply with strict social distancing regulations as outlined by the State Government and the Victorian Chief Medical Officer and will be enforcing these restrictions.

We acknowledge too that the State Government is also recommending stricter measures around parent access to the College and around gatherings at drop-off and pick-up. The College will also be enforcing these measures. We expect parents to remain in their vehicles at all drop-off and pick-up times. We appreciate everyone’s co-operation in these matters.

We understand that there are still many unanswered questions about exactly how and when all transition back to school will be managed, so the College will provide regular ongoing information as decisions are made.

I wanted to take this opportunity on behalf of the school and our teaching staff, to offer my thanks for the support you have provided during this transition.

I have been inspired by the commitment and energy shown by parents and teachers in educating our students, and this is reflected in the innovative and creative ways we have come together to ensure continuity of education.

St Patrick’s College and its staff are here for you and, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us as we are available to help during this challenging period.

We really can’t wait to welcome our students back to St Patrick’s College!

Yours sincerely

Stephen Hill

Acting Principal