Children of vulnerable households or essential workers return to school

Children from vulnerable home situations have returned to school with staff numbers restricted to essentials only, ahead of online learning for senior students next week. DETAILS HERE

Children of essential workers and vulnerable households return to school this week, with Darling Downs facilities restricting the number of teachers available.

Oakey State High School said only those children were “to be supervised – not taught – by a limited number of staff”.

“Oakey High very much appreciates the efforts of parents and carers in making arrangements that support the health and wellbeing of not only their children but the essential workers in our school community,” the school said.

Year 11 and 12 students resume online learning from January 31, with remaining students resuming face-to-face learning from February 7.

“This is the first time most of us in Queensland are experiencing widespread community transmission of Covid-19, and it’s challenging for everyone,” Queensland Education Minister Grace Grace (pictured) said.

“However, school staff – like the wider workforce – are likely to be significantly impacted by the number of Covid cases, so directed remote learning won’t be offered at this stage other than for Years 11 and 12.

“Staff who are able to work will be carrying out a range of duties, just as they would on other student free days.

“Parents and carers can decide what their children do over these two weeks.”

With the increased risk of Covid-19 exposure, the Queensland Teachers Union executive team will meet to consider the raft of strategies to keep members and students safe, according to QTU president Cresta Richardson.