Queensland’s back to school plan revealed with mask mandate in place

Queensland’s long-awaited back-to-school plan has been revealed a week ahead of the reopening of classrooms. SEE ALL THE NEW REQUIREMENTS

Students can expect mandatory masks and no more assemblies when they return to class on February 7, under the state’s new back-to-school plan.

Education Minister Grace Grace made the announcement on Sunday, saying the government was following a “comprehensive” plan.

“We have a full week to implement, largely, what has been implemented in schools over the last two years,” she said.

It’s set to include mandatory masks for teachers and high school students, while those in years three to six will be strongly encouraged to wear them.

Teachers can remove their masks when speaking, and high school students can remove them when seated or able to socially distance.

For the first four weeks, school camps, excursions, assemblies and large gatherings will be suspended and visitation will be limited on school grounds.

Parents will be asked to avoid going into schools as much as possible, with the exception of parents and carers of vulnerable students and students up to year 1.

Ms Grace said there was a supply of over 750,000 Rapid Antigen Tests that will be put aside for staff and students both at schools and at testing clinics over the next four weeks.

If a student develops symptoms at schools, parents will have to collect their child, take home a RAT and administer it at home.

When there’s an active case, staff and families will be told and, in the case of an outbreak, the Public Health Unit will instruct whether or not the school should close, however Ms Grace said this would be a “last resort”.

Unvaccinated parents will still be allowed onto school grounds and children won’t require mandatory vaccinations, although it is encouraged according to the Minister.

Under the vaccine mandate for school staff, Queensland now has 98 per cent of staff fully vaccinated with Ms Grace saying there were also 5000 relief teachers on hand in case of an emergency.

Education Minister Grace Grace. Picture: NCA NewsWire / John Gass

Ventilation will be improved in all classrooms through fans, airconditioning and having outdoor classes where possible.

Positive cases won’t be allowed back to school, and if a student or staff member becomes a close contact they should also quarantine as per the state guidelines.

Ms Grace said the plan was a “common sense” approach to returning to school.

“Queensland has a very good track record with keeping schools safe.”