He mihi aroha ki a koutou,

Like many of you, I was pleased to hear that school, and life in general, will be returning to a more familiar pattern when the country moves to Level 2.

The Ministries of Health and Education yesterday made it very clear that under level 2 it was safe for staff and students to return to school with precautions. While there are a number of challenges to be overcome before returning to school, we have received clear guidance from the Ministry of Education about what is expected of us and our community upon return under Level 2.

The key messages we have received from the Ministry of Education so far are:

• reduce the risk of someone getting infected in the first place

• ensure we can identify and contact anyone who becomes infected

• understand that Level 2 is not business as usual.

Our planning will take into account all recommendations and directives from the Ministry of Education as well as working through any unique challenges that we may face as a college.

At this stage, the earliest school will be returning is Monday, 18 May. If the government decides to extend Level 3, this date is likely to change. Distance learning will continue until we move to Level 2.

We are looking forward to welcoming our staff and students back to school and we are confident that with your support, we will be able to keep everyone safe.

I will be sending out a much more detailed update for families next week once we have clarity around the country’s move out of Level 3. Until then, stay safe and do not hesitate to get in contact with us if you have questions about your child’s learning.

Ngā mihi nui,

Alastair Sinton
Principal