Thursday, 23 April, 2020
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Despite the highly unusual circumstances we find ourselves in, I trust that you are all having an enjoyable break with some well-deserved rest and relaxation.
As we finished the end of Term 1, it was unclear as to what the plans for Term 2 would be as we were waiting on advice from the NSW Government and Department of Education.
As you would be aware, the NSW Premier and Minister for Education conducted a media briefing where they announced the plans for learning in NSW public schools for this coming term. I participated in a state wide briefing of Principals yesterday with Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education where the plans were discussed further.
The following information is important for all our families:
The Premier has announced the transition back to the classroom model for Term 2. NSW Public School students will gradually transition back to school, one day per week, beginning in Week 3 (Monday 11 May).
The beginning of next term sees Monday 27 April and Tuesday 28 April as School Development Days to allow for additional planning and professional learning for staff.
Wednesday 29th April will be the first day for students of essential workers to return to school. Online learning will also begin on that day.
Please note, teachers will not be available to interact with students on Tuesday 28 April due to the additional School Development Day. Teachers will begin communicating with all students from Wednesday 29 April.
As you would appreciate, the complexity of our school with almost 300 students and 32 staff, requires careful consideration before a finalised plan can be issued. There are an enormous number of factors to take into consideration to ensure that this is successful. Next week, I will work with our school leadership team and staff to complete the organisation for Edensor Park Public School's Phase One managed return for students.
The website https://education.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/advice-for-families has been updated and has further information that will be useful to you.
Further details will be sent out as soon as possible to give families enough time to make arrangements regarding plans for student return from Week 3, Monday 11th May.
This term will certainly bring challenges for all stakeholders in education. Please be assured we are doing our very best to support our students, their families and our staff. I am confident that with such a wonderful staff, supportive families and the best school community around, we will work through these challenges successfully together. I will continue to update all families on a regular basis. Please do not hesitate to contact the front office should you have any questions or need additional information.
I wish you all a happy and safe end to the school holidays.
Take care,
Matthew Santucci
Principal
Edensor Park Public School
