NT kids head back to school for Term 2, with the expectation being all students attend

THE Territory is the first jurisdiction in the nation to have its schools get back to business as usual, with Term 2 starting today.

Hayden Smith, 6, from Driver Primary School is looking forward to getting back to school for Term 2, 2020. Picture: Che Chorley

• Education Minister Selena Uibo confirms NT students are expected to attend school in Term 2

THE Territory is the first jurisdiction in the nation to have its schools get back to business as usual.

Term 2 starts today and unlike all other jurisdictions in Australia where attendance will not be compulsory, the expectation is that all NT students physically attend school.

The NT Education Department is firm that advice from the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee is schools are safe to remain open and if students don’t attend a please explain will be asked of their parents.

NT Education Department chief executive, Karen Weston, said being at school and early childhood education and care centres was the best way forward.

“We have been listening to our teachers and school communities and new guidelines released on Friday provide clarity about Term 2 and support our students to return to learning in schools,” Ms Weston said.

“We want the best possible education outcomes for Territory students and physically being at school and early childhood education and care centres, is the best way for students and young children to continue to learn and develop.

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“These times are unprecedented, and we will continue to work together with our school communities, educators and families to ensure that young Territorians are supported in their learning.

“In instances where families elect not to send their child to school, the child must be learning from home, and they must notify their child’s school.”

The Education Department says schools will work with students and families who are unwell or have explained absences to support their learning.

It says in instances where families elect not to send their child to school, the child must be learning from home, and they must notify their child’s school.

Health Minister Natasha Fyles said she was happy to send her children back to school.

“It is really important that parents listen to the health advice and our classrooms are safe,” she said.

“I am very much looking forward to my children returning to school and being back with their friends.

“Teachers are looking forward to welcoming students back. Senior school teachers are concerned for their pupils in their final year and are looking forward to being back teaching them.”

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NT Education said it wants to reassure parents that schools will continue to practise and promote good hygiene, and physical distancing in line with advice.