Dear Parents
it was just a matter of time before we became part of the national and global statistics with a COVID infection. However, we are one of many schools that have been effected by the pandemic with a recorded infection and there is no cause for alarm. I did contact the Department of Health as is the procedure and we have followed the guidelines in addressing the incident. As I mentioned in the WhatsApp message, we have close school two days early and will reopen on the 6th July
Strategic – Pupil Numbers
We have introduced a phased return to school and currently there are four grades still to rejoin the school. We have welcomed back an average of 34% of our total enrolment and just under 50% of the enrolment that can return, which is within our expectations. This number remains fluid and we monitor it on a daily basis. With the expectation of possible further infections, future predictions of returning numbers are at best uncertain. We will, however, continue with online support.
Calendar
Please note the we have updated the 2020 School calendar. This is available on the website or ion the following link – Update School Calendar June 2020
Academics General
We find ourselves in the very unusual position of not being able to issue June progress reports. For obvious reasons this is not possible. However, we will be running Examinations in September and again in November for all learners. Please impress upon your child/children, the importance of either attending class or fully participating in the online program.
High School / Primary School split, new timetable and next cohort return
As part of our COVID response and reopening strategy, the High School / Primary School will be split. This is in order to maintain a safe social distancing at all times. We will provide the new timetables when we open on 6 July. I will circulate a separate communication to Grades 1, 4 ,5, 8 and 9 parents with the details regarding the rotation of these grades.
We will also welcome back our Grade 1 learners
Online feedback
Many thanks to those who responded to the online survey. Your responses have shed light and given direction for the continued development of this option for the next 6 months and indeed for 2021.
Operational issues
The adoption of our COVID protocols has initiated a number of operational changes which have had unforeseen yet very positive consequences. Learners no longer wear a formal uniform, there are no hairstyle restrictions and with the high school and primary school split we have discarded the school bell. These changes have created a quite calm and harmonious teaching and learning environment and will remain until further notice.
Finance
Our financial position remains stable but precarious and we face massive challenges ahead of us. We are not unresponsive to entering into discussions with families who are traditionally good payers and are currently facing financial barriers. and should you fall into this bracket please contact Mrs Lubbe at the school to discuss a possible payment plan.
Staffing
Mrs Le Roux and Mrs Pretorius are away on maternity leave and we are delighted to welcome Mrs Louise Nel and Mrs Esmari Voges to a staff as locum teachers during his time.
Foundation Phase
To efficiently manage the social distancing protocols in the Foundation Phase, we have undertaken minor renovations to the rented property adjacent to the current building which can safely accommodate all our Grade R learners. All our projects remain on hold for the immediate future
The Online Teaching and Learning Project 2021
We are actively developing a separate online teaching and learning program for 2021 which will offer a full academic program with a blended approach. We will open this for enrolment in due course. There will be a different price point and very clear conditions of enrolment. However, it is certainly the way forward and will provide quality academic access to a wider group of learners.
Conclusion
Lastly, we, as a staff and you as parents, have all been working incredibly hard during the last three months. We have a very short break but please use it to rest and not think about school for the next 10 days. There is a huge mountain to climb when we return but for now, take a well-earned break.
Warmest regards
