For the latest advice from the Department of Education re COVID-19, visit:

The basics 2023

Students, staff and visitors should only attend school when they are fully symptom-free.

Schools are operating with a number of ‘COVID-smart measures’ that have been developed with NSW Health to minimise transmission of the coronavirus and keep schools open.

These key measures include:

  • it is strongly recommended that all eligible students and staff, including volunteers, be fully vaccinated for Covid-19
  • maximising ventilation
  • encouraging regular hand washing and continuing enhanced cleaning of schools
  • assessing high risk activities and applying appropriate safeguards.

MASKS

Masks may be required for people returning from having COVID and other groups – see here for details.
Watch our video and download printed tips on teaching ethics while wearing a mask >>

Vaccination

  • The Department of Education strongly recommends all eligible students and staff be fully vaccinated, including booster vaccinations as they become available to different groups
  • No one is to attend school if unwell, even with mild symptoms – get tested immediately for COVID-19 if you become symptomatic
  • As from 1 August 2022, unvaccinated staff and volunteers can return to schools.

Distancing

You should try to maintain distance where possible and to make sure doors and windows are open for good ventilation, where possible.

Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

  • If you have any Covid-like symptoms, stay home and test. Even if your RAT is negative, stay home while you have any symptoms.
  • If you have no symptoms, it is up to you whether you take a RAT before attending to teach ethics.
  • If as a volunteer you want to take a test, bear in mind that they are not mandatory or protective and that your personal protection comes through vaccination, masking, hand hygiene and following the distancing protocols..

Please contact your coordinator or the Primary Ethics Helpdesk if you need support or further information.