As a School community, we continue to closely monitor the development of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and remain vigilant about the potential risk to our community. Undoubtedly, the wellbeing of the community remains our highest priority and I understand your worry and unease of this rapidly changing situation. In light of this, some adjustments to School programs are being made to ensure the wellbeing of all students in the Junior School.

Year 4 Camp Rescheduled

The Year 4 Camp has been postponed until 12-14 October. While disappointing for the girls now, we anticipate the knowledge that they will attend camp later in the year will bring a measure of cheer.

Planning for Students at Home

The care and wellbeing of our students is always foremost in our thoughts, and it was this consideration that led to the decision to close the School for the last week of Term 1. The staff have worked incredibly hard to develop educational programs for the students, with parents of girls in Years Prep-3 accessing work through the Parent Portal and students in Years 4-6 accessing work through their Student Portal. Work will be uploaded daily and in task numbers for each day.

To assist parents with their preparations for students at home in Week 9 of this term, I have put together a list of things you might like to consider when out shopping.

• Check your printer cartridge for printing off worksheets
• A ream of paper
• Check pencils and colours, rubber and ruler, scissors
• 3 x dice
• 3 x tennis balls
• Pack of cards
• Power-board if a number of children are needing to charge devices
• Glue stick

Staff have endeavoured to make the activities as interesting as possible. We realise sitting in front of their devices all day can be challenging. Additionally, we understand that how families undertake the work set may be different depending on family priorities, so we are pleased to accept student’s work when you are able to submit it.

We plan to make daily contact with the girls (Years 4-6) and their parents (Years Prep-3) to ensure that they are adapting and that things are running smoothly. Staff will be able to assist in any way possible.

To assist community members, the School has created an Information Page available on the School Portal to provide up to date information about COVID-19 https://myportal.stcatherines.net.au/homepage/23788. Please ensure you have the St Catherines School App on your phone to receive instant notifications on updates to this Information Page.

I would like to thank you very much for your ongoing support during these unprecedented events. I understand this a challenging time for all.