Tēnā koutou kātoa
As of midnight Sunday 14 February we have returned to Alert Level 2 for 72 hours. The media release from Health this afternoon lists contact tracing locations of interest for Auckland and Taranaki, and everyone who has been to one of these locations in the specified times or is displaying COVID-19 symptoms is being asked to self-isolate and call Healthline to arrange a test. This is a reminder of the practices at Alert Level 2 at Wellington East Girls’ College.
It is safe for students and staff to be onsite. Although there is no requirement for social distancing within schools, students are advised to keep outside of each other's “moist breath zone” wherever possible. We will be continuing to reinforce good hygiene practices and cleaning protocols to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
There is no requirement for students to wear masks at school, however, they may choose to wear one if it makes them feel more comfortable.
Anyone who is sick or waiting for the result of a COVID-19 test result must stay at home until they receive the result.
If your child has symptoms whilst at school they will be taken to Hauora and you will be contacted to come and collect them.
Some children who are vulnerable to illness may choose to stay at home. If you are unsure of your child's health status and how this may be impacted then please consult with your GP.
For any student not attending school, please let us know as soon as possible on the day of absence by either emailing absence@wegc.school.nz or by calling the absence line (04)385 8514.
Contact tracing is a priority and all staff and students are encouraged to use the government COVID-19 Tracer App.
QR codes are displayed at reception for all parents and visitors to our site.
Teachers will be updating their Google Classroom with resources from their classes to allow students who are unable to attend to stay engaged with their learning. However, as staff will primarily be teaching face to face, online learning will not be as comprehensive as during lockdown.
We want to ensure that every student has a device for learning in case there should be a change in Alert Levels. Could you please contact Ms Joyes sarah.joyes@wegc.school.nz if your child does not have a device for learning.
There are no limits to the size of gatherings within the school community (students and staff) at this level. There are limits to events that involve the wider school community and these are limited to 100 people. As a consequence we have decided to postpone tomorrow’s Leadership Assembly and also the Whānau Tutahi and Pasifika Parents’ meetings that were due to be held this week.
This will be closed on Monday to allow staff to set up a contactless service. Please make sure students bring their own lunch and morning tea for tomorrow
I know that many of you will have questions about Sport. We will be in touch with more details when we are aware of how WEGC Sport will be impacted.
Under Alert Level 2 Metlink’s school services will run to the usual timetable and routes.
Students may sit together and all seats can be filled. Students will also be permitted to stand.
Students will be expected to use hand sanitiser when boarding.
There is no requirement for students to wear masks on school buses but they may be expected to wear them on public buses.
Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the school. Students may wish to bring their own hand sanitiser/wipes to school. However, the best way to prevent contraction or transmission of infectious diseases is through:
These are the most effective ways of keeping healthy and it is important to remind students of these practices too.
This is something we have managed well together as a community in the past. I know that there will be some emerging anxiety for our young people, however, our school community is resilient and sensible. We are prepared and we will be fine. Please be in touch if you have any questions or concerns.
Ngā mihi nui
Gael Ashworth
Principal