Released 22/03/2020
ACT schools, government and non-government, will begin pupil-free days from Tuesday 24 March through to the school holidays despite statements from the Prime Minister.
This decision is consistent with the approach being adopted by NSW and Victoria.
Moving to pupil free days now will provide schools and teachers with time to prepare for a range of learning delivery options, including online, similar to how distance education is provided in remote areas.
During this period, schools will remain open for school staff to prepare for alternative delivery of education.
The ACT school system is prepared to transition to alternative teaching models from term 2. Government schools are well placed for this shift, after the government invested significantly in devices for students and digital capability over recent years.
The ACT Education Directorate will provide options for school-age children whose parents and carers need to continue delivering essential services for Canberra during this period. The government is also making arrangements to allow vulnerable children to attend school in person. Further details of these arrangements will be provided tomorrow, Monday 23 March.
The ACT’s approach will continue to be informed by advice from the Chief Health Officer. For this reason, Lyneham High School will be closed on Monday 23 March to allow for enable the school and health officials to work through a contact and containment strategy after a COVID-19 case arising connected to the school.
School principals will be providing more information to school communities as this fast-moving situation develops.
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases