Welcome back to a new school year. I trust you all had a restful and eventful break, whether you were fortunate enough to get away for a good holiday or just enjoyed time with family and friends ready for the mystery of 2022.
The return to school will be again difficult for both staff and students with Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) twice a week for all, wearing of masks and other conditions that will be in place to hopefully keep everyone safe from the spread of COVID-19.
Employers/systems should be providing personal protective equipment to all staff, including masks and hand sanitiser. Social distancing requirements should be in place, along with adequate recess and lunch breaks.
If anyone feels their safety of the safety of students is in question please contact your IEU Organiser to arrange for a Chapter meeting to be held in your school so your concerns can be addressed.
Sub Branch meetings are fast approaching so please check the date of your meeting on the IEU website and encourage colleagues to attend. This round of Sub Branch meetings will be held via Zoom so you don’t have to travel.
We'll be holding our March Council face-to-face, and hope we can keep meeting in person throughout 2022.
Congratulations to teachers of Year 12 in 2021 for steering their students through two very stressful and disrupted senior years. I'm sure the results in the HSC were a true record of the hard work and dedication of both students and staff. Well done to all.
Enjoy Term 1 and I am very confident you will be prepared for whatever is thrown your way as we navigate the pandemic. Stay safe and well, best wishes, and keep up the good work.