New COVID-safe guidelines have been put into place for the beginning of the 2021 school year:
Parents and carers of children in Kindergarten, and Year 1,2 and 7 were able to enter school grounds on the first day of the new school year, as part of the updated return-to-school guidelines.
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the main update to the guidelines is that parents and carers of children in Kindergarten, and Year 1,2 and 7 were able to enter school grounds on the first day to drop off their children in a COVID-safe way.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the first day of school is incredibly important, especially for those children starting Kindergarten.
“The first day of school is incredibly exciting for students and parents, I am thrilled the NSW Government has been able to work with the community and NSW Health to deliver a result that means parents and carers can be part of this important day,” Mrs Tuckerman said.
“Parents and carers will need to follow current COVID restrictions and avoid mingling outside the school gates.”
Schools provided relevant information to families about the processes for their school before the first day.
Parents, staff and students are not required to wear face masks at school.
Parents are asked to avoid coming on to school ground unless the visit complies with the current school guidelines, such as volunteering at the school canteen or visiting the uniform shop.
Schools can plan for sporting carnivals, excursions and overnight camps, and special events such as concerts, with a COVID Safety Plan in place.
Material and support for planning are available for schools at https://education.nsw.gov.au/covid19/advice-for-families
