Schools welcome hygienists

Every school can boost safety for teachers by accessing federal funding for soap, hand sanitiser and specialised cleaning.

The Diocese of Broken Bay has already employed 44 casual hygienists to work in all schools across the diocese. After undertaking training, they work four hours per day, during school hours, five days a week, carrying out extensive cleaning to eliminate the potential for a COVID-19 outbreak in schools.

On 14 May, the Federal Government offered funding to both the independent and Catholic school sectors to support COVID-19 hygiene measures. This funding was contingent upon schools planning to have at least half of their students back in the classroom by 1 June. The funding could be used for “soap, hand sanitiser or extra cleaning”.

On 28 May, Education Minister Dan Tehan said that of the 2738 non government schools throughout Australia, 96 per cent had signed up for their share of the $9.3 million on offer.

Members say they feel safe and valued, and they appreciate the measures undertaken to ensure safe working environments during the pandemic.

Some of the hygienists in Broken Bay are new casual employees, while others are existing employees who may have worked in the canteen or as after-hours cleaners in schools. Normal school cleaning will also continue.

Members and principals have reported that the measures taken by the Broken Bay diocese have made a substantial impact on staff and parents in schools. Members say they feel safe and valued, and they appreciate the measures undertaken by the diocese to ensure safe working environments during the pandemic.

They have been engaged until at least the end of Term 2.

Megan Bruce
Oganiser