It is increasingly difficult to class anything as unusual in the life and times of this pandemic, but once again our return to the school year has been riddled with new procedures. Masks are now the accessory item of choice, and must be worn whenever staff and students are indoors. We are currently unable to meet as large, mixed-cohort groups, meaning that we have not been able to meet as a College or House community since 2022 began. Camps and retreats have been postponed, which has been particularly difficult for our Year 7’s who find this time of bonding integral to their initiation as new high schoolers. We also have our RAT distribution program in full swing, which has been an enormous job for our administrative staff and we thank them for this.
As expected, our students have met these additional procedures and challenges with their notable resilience. The majority of students have accepted the new Covid rules and recognize that we are all in this together. Students who forget their mask are now asked to pay $1 for a replacement, however this money will go towards Caritas, a non-for-profit organization that the College supports.
Though our students have adapted to this new way of school life well, it is important that we continue the conversation about why they need to do things like wear masks and take Rapid Antigen Tests. When I am forced to ask a student to put his mask back on, I try to use this as an educational opportunity, so that the student is no longer just a passive follower of rules, but an active participant in keeping his school community safe.
No matter how well we do this, some children will find these measures harder than others. We understand that, but we believe that honest education and practice will help the vast majority of children. Below are some child friendly explanations that you can share with your student or son, to greater their understanding of all of this.
Why does everyone wear masks in public?
The mask is a way to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Everyone is being asked to take steps to prevent spreading the virus from person to person.
What do masks do?
Masks, or facial coverings, are mainly to prevent the person wearing the mask from generating droplets from breathing, coughing, sneezing, etc. It is these droplets that can carry a virus from one person to another.
Why is handwashing important?
Along with vaccines, handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of virus, along with social distancing and wearing a mask. Be sure you are washing or cleaning your hands when transitioning between locations, such as coming back inside your home or before re-entering your car after shopping. Keep hand sanitizer with you.
Preparing your child for a Rapid Antigen Test
As with vaccination, the key to performing the test successfully is preparing the child well and explaining what will happen, to give them some control over the situation and to minimise anxiety. Explain to your child that they will need to do a RA test two mornings per week for a few weeks, it will not be forever. Explain that all of their friends will be doing them as well, and that if the test is negative they can go to school. If you are conducting a nasal swab with your child, explain to them that it will not hurt but it may be a bit uncomfortable for a few seconds.
Ashleigh Kerin
Head of Clancy House (Acting)