July 21 – College update on COVID-19 and masks

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

In line with Victorian State Government restrictions, and following advice from the Catholic Education Office (Ballarat), we write to confirm that students who commute to St Patrick’s College from Melbourne municipalities and the Mitchell Shire will be required to wear a face mask or facial covering to and from school, commencing Thursday, July 23, 2020.

Following their temperature being checked upon arrival at school the students will be permitted to remove their mask.

At this stage, parents are required to supply masks for their sons. However, the College’s preference is that masks be a block colour (preferably navy blue or black) and must not feature offensive wording or designs.

The State Government has not yet mandated that students from areas outside Melbourne or the Mitchell Shire must wear masks, but it is actively encouraged.

St Patrick’s College supports all students and staff who choose to adopt the practice of wearing a face mask during this time.

The Department of Health and Human Services website has advice about face coverings, including:

• different types that can be used
• how to make your own
• how to safely wear
• how to safely remove.

The Department’s coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, call 1800 338 663.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding during these challenging times.

Mr Stephen Hill

Acting Principal