Kia ora koutou We are fortunate that today the weather in Christchurch has been so beautiful, and has, I hope, lifted your spirits as we work our way through the latest Covid-19 challenges.

After each announcement from the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Education sends information to schools and guidance on the actions we need to take within the current Alert Level. At each step, the Ministry guides schools on how best to support Home Learning, and provides up to date advice from the Ministry of Health. We find this really helpful as there are many complexities to running a school remotely. Public Health messages included in our updates are taken directly from the Ministry of Education briefings, so they are reliable and accurate.

All education facilities remain closed during Alert Level 4. We have had enquiries about when school will reopen, and whether there will be provision for essential workers’ children. Until the government announces a change to Alert Level 4 we are not able to open for instruction for any children, and there are strict rules for staff about going on site to collect resources. Today’s announcement from the Prime Minister means Alert Level 4 will continue for the whole of New Zealand until at least 11:59pm, on Friday 27 August.

All homes and whānau will be managing the Alert Levels to suit their needs, including work commitments. There may be times when llife becomes complicated so if you need support reach out. As parents / caregivers looking after our children, as well as working, can be demanding. The Unite against Covid-19 website has helpful information to assist you Keep children safe and reassured.

Home Learning Programme:

All teachers have been enjoying connecting with their classes through Meets this week. They have commented on how well the children have focussed and participated. Using a combination of whole class and group Meets is working well, adding to the confidence children have with speaking and using technology protocols. Great job everyone- tino pai!  Just a little reminder that while children are on their Meets, things going on in the background in your living rooms, can be seen, and heard, on their screens eg. people getting dressed. We want to avoid any embarrassment for you and our teachers so keep this in mind.

There is a lot we an all do to protect our whānau and community from COVID-19 including:

 Everyone must continue to stay home in their bubble Wash your hands regularly, especially when you have been      out in public

 Stay home if you are feeling unwell and seek advice about whether you need to get a test

 Wear a face covering when out and about, and you MUST wear a face covering in any businesses or services which are open at Alert Level 4 (unless you have specifically been exempted from doing so, which includes anyone aged under 12)

 Keep a two-metre distance from people outside your household bubble

 Check in using the NZ COVID Tracer App wherever you go or keep a manual record (a reminder the App only stores information on your own phone – no one else will know who it is that checked in, or when).

Finally, if you are finding difficult to access food and essential items such as medicine. This link How to access essential items may help.

Noho ora mai – stay safe

Sue Elley

Tumuaki – Principal