News

2022 01 25 Covid-19 Update / Operating under the ‘Red Traffic Light’

COVID-19 Update                                                                                                                            Wednesday 26 January 2022

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Whanau,

Welcome to Middleton Grange School for 2022, especially if you are new to our school family.  I wish you God’s richest blessing for the year ahead as we seek to serve Him together and grow as His children.  We look forward to seeing your children at school next week and please be assured we are doing everything possible to ensure your children’s safety with regards to Covid-19.  A lot has changed in the last week so please read the following information carefully.

As you will be aware, New Zealand moved to the RED stage of the Traffic Light System (CPF) from 11:59pm on Sunday 23 January, following news that the Omicron variant has spread into our communities.

Please note the following key information on what school life will be like at Middleton Grange School under the ‘RED’ setting of the Traffic Light System when children return to school next week:

  • Middleton Grange School will be OPEN for on-site learning for ALL students and staff.
  • Proof of vaccination will not be required of students for Curriculum related activities.
  • Face masks must be worn (please supply your own and have spares in your bag):
    • For ALL students in Years 4 to Year 13 – when indoorsg., in classrooms/hallways/locker bays
    • Surgical grade masks must be worn for ALL staff (teaching and supporting the provision of education) – when indoorsg., in classrooms/hallways/locker bays/shared office spaces
    • On school and public transport for ALL students YEAR 4 and above.
  • Playgrounds and drinking fountains will still be able to be used, with appropriate distancing and hygiene
  • Where possible/practicable – students will be seated at separate classroom desks (1m apart).
  • Physical education classes can take place, but hygiene practices will need to be observed
  • Non curriculum related events will be limited and will only proceed if a vaccination certificate is required. g., School Sport Canterbury Management Committee have made the decision that all students entering Schools Sport Canterbury delivered or sanctioned events and competitions will be required to be fully vaccinated.
  • Large activities indoors with students, including assemblies, prize givings, singing and performances will not be permitted. Classrooms need to be kept well ventilated at all times (windows & doors open where possible).
  • Parents and caregivers should do drop offs and pick-ups from outside the school grounds where possible.
  • All visitors, including parents and caregivers, that do come on site must wear face coverings when on the school grounds.
  • Non-essential visitors are not allowed on site

The Government are advising all 5–11-year-olds to get their first vaccine jab ASAP and all those eligible for their booster jab (if received 2nd vaccine jab at least 4 months ago) to get it ASAP, as this will further support protection against the Omicron variant and potential serious sickness.

Note:  If you are sick – stay home and get tested.  If you have cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms, or are waiting for any Covid-19 test results – stay home.  Call your doctor, or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice about getting tested.

Further information will be provided to you as we receive updates from the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Ministry of Health (MOH). 

Preparing for COVID-19

You can also prepare for COVID-19, making sure you and your household have a plan and know what to do. This will mean your whānau and community can help each other if needed. Find out more here:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV)

In Christ

Mike Vannoort

Principal/Tumuaki