By Juliano Oliveira
Queensland children will be returning to school from May 11 in three different stages, has announced the State’s Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
The first stage encompasses Kindy, Prep, Years 1, 11 and 12 returning to school on May 11. Second, on May 15, the Government will assess state-wide response to easing of restrictions. Finally, on May 25, remaining students in remaining grades will be able to return to school.
“These are the children who are at the most important junctures of schooling – the beginning and the end of their educational journey,” the Premier said.
Education Minister Grace Grace said the government’s plan has been endorsed by the independent and Catholic school sector as well as principals and teachers alike.
“Most of all, we have listened to Queensland parents who have done such an incredible job for their children supporting them through home learning,” the Minister said.
“When students begin to return to school, our schools remain safe and hygienic environments for the teachers and staff who will be in the workplace.”
Social distancing measures to protect adults at schools will include:
- Staff and students who are unwell must not attend school
- All adults must maintain social distancing of 1.5 metres
- Adults must not gather in groups in and around school grounds, car parks, school gates and outside classrooms
- Parents should use stop, drop and go options rather than walking children into school grounds
- Strict personal hygiene protocols, including the cleaning of high touch surfaces such as desks and door handles, will remain in place.