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Covid Update
 

A message from the Principal

Burnside High School —

Tēnā koutou katoa Kia kaha, kia mau, kia haere tonu: Stay strong, hold fast, keep on course.

This afternoon, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced that all of New Zealand stays at Alert Level 4 until midnight on Friday 27 August, with a review on that day. This means that Burnside High School will remain closed for all staff and students until at least Friday 27 August, unless we are advised otherwise.

This extension will give health officials time to gather data regarding the possible spread of the Delta variant across the country; and to give our leaders the information they need to make further decisions.

Now that we have more certainty around the rest of the week, our first challenge is to get over any feelings of disappointment. As with any setback, while we may feel a little deflated initially, we can quickly readjust our thinking in order to hold a positive mindset. Emotion is a key motivator. Yes, our normal routines are disturbed, so we find ways to create a different routine. Our efforts should focus on maintaining our mental health. We need to take one moment at a time; as it is not helpful jumping ahead and worrying about what might be. Ask yourself: how do I want to feel during the next four days of lockdown – and make plans from there.

With the continued closure of school, students will engage with their learning remotely. Thank you to everyone who has started this already, and to whānau for your support and encouragement in this. Remember that we have specialists who can assist with internet connection and devices, so please do contact the Divisional Dean if you need assistance. As always, we will keep you informed through messages and announcements on the BHS website and Facebook page, via Schoology, and emails. Please check these regularly.

Our thoughts and good wishes go out to our colleagues and peers at the many Auckland schools with positive cases.

Please be gentle with yourself and each other. Things will work out well!

Ngā mihi nui

Phil Holstein

Principal