We look forward to welcoming all girls back to Barbreck. We recognise that some parents and their daughters are understandably concerned and want to ensure their continued good health.

Shortly, a Return to Barbreck: Parent Information Booklet will be sent to you. It outlines how the Junior School has planned for the girls’ return and the many measures we have put in place to minimise the risk of COVID-19. We hope that the information assists to allay many of your concerns. While the measures contained within the Information Booklet may seem quite extensive, we would rather err on the side of caution and ease restrictions as the situation begins to lessen across the state. We are working with the best interests of the girls and staff as our highest priority, and we are working hard to maintain their continued good health.

When you receive the Information Booklet, we encourage all parents to read it carefully and to be aware of the processes and procedures which are set out. We encourage everyone to support us to ensure they are implemented well.

With the girls’ return, we feel sad that we are unable to greet them as we normally would do. We are concerned some girls may find this challenging, and we encourage all parents to explain to their daughters before their return to Barbreck that we unable to hug them nor are they able to hug anyone or their friends. I know this may be difficult but it is in everyone’s best interests.

The start dates for Barbreck girls is as follows:

Monday 25 May is a Pupil Free Day for staff planning and preparation.

We are fortunate that the building has a number of spare classrooms and open areas so we are able to accommodate social distancing with desk placements across all classes, with some spilling into the room next door, while the library and auditorium will accommodate a class each. Our spacious grounds will also facilitate us to separate Year Levels during meal times across large areas, enabling social distancing.

It is my hope that there will soon be a day when we can return to something resembling normal, when we can mill around the forecourt, chat and have laughs together, hug the girls, give them a high 5 and watch as they skip arm in arm down the drive.

That day is determined on all of us being vigilant, adhering to the current processes and procedures, watching out for each other and realising that everyone’s safety and well-being is paramount.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any queries or concern you may have.

Our Barbreck staff are just as eager to return to School and have put together a special message for our students.