Cases of COVID-19 are increasing in most parts of the country, and we are also seeing high numbers of other winter illnesses.

For the start of Term 3, 2022, the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health strongly recommend that all schools and kura amend their mask policy for the first four weeks of term to require mask wearing in all indoor settings (where it will not have a significant impact on teaching and learning – see below) for students in Years 4 and above.

As we (Board and Staff) have followed the MOH and MOE advice since the beginning of the pandemic we will continue to do so. For the first four weeks of the term, we will be requiring mask wearing in all indoor settings for students in Years 4 and above.

This recommendation does not include any situation where mask wearing might not be practicable, such as while eating and drinking, playing certain musical instruments, indoor sport, where it will have a significant impact on teaching and learning (for example, students with particular learning needs), certain activities such as singing or drama performance on stage, and PE. In these situations, particular attention will be paid to ensuring there is good ventilation during the activity, and physical distancing where practicable.

Wearing masks can reduce new cases of the virus by as much as 53%. It works alongside other measures including vaccination, good ventilation, staying home when sick, and hand washing and other hygiene measures, to protect our students and staff. 

Mask exemption

A new mask exemption process was implemented in early June 2022. Information on this can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website.
Who does not need to wear a face mask – Unite Against COVID-19

We know that that some of our tamariki/ākonga have been exempt from wearing a mask. If they have an exemption card or a letter from their health provider, or we have agreed that mask wearing is not practicable for them, we will support them to not wear a mask. 

Please make sure that tamariki/ākonga come to school ready to wear masks. Students should bring masks from home. There will be a limited supply of masks for students who are unable to bring one from home.

Thank you for your support in protecting our school community.

Noho ora mai

Jo Earl

Tumuaki