COVID-19 Information

At The Friends’ School, the safety, health and welfare of our students, staff, parents and community members remain our highest priority.

We ask our school community to show compassion and kindness towards those nearby as well as others in our society, while also caring for their own health. We also ask people to proactively remain connected to others in the community to provide support and care for one another.

Here you will find information and guidance about The Friends’ School’s response to the current outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

As the pandemic continues to evolve, it is always important to stay informed of the latest information and updates on the Tasmanian State Government’s COVID-19 landing page

The Friends' School COVID-19 Safety Measures

The School continues to ensure a safe environment for staff and students. These measures have been put in place in line with the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) guidelines and we seek your support in adhering to these procedures.

Please carefully review and read over the ‘Feeling Unwell, Stay at Home Flow Chart’ and the The Friends’ School COVID-19 Risk Reduction Measures

 

If you require further information on COVID-19 Government measures, including testing requirements, please visit www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au

For School-related COVID-19 concerns, please contact Mark Natoli | Risk and Compliance Manager.

COVID-19 Case Notification

To simplify the School’s Public Health data reporting requirements please use this new eForm from the commencement of Term Two to notify The Friends’ School of a positive COVID-19 case. The relevant School office will receive a copy of this form. There is no need to call or email through student absenteeism. Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation during this time.

Visiting Protocols

Friends Early Learning (FEL) – Parents/Guardians/Carers

  • Parents/Guardians/Carers can drop off and pick up their children in Friends Early Learning, maintaining appropriate physical distancing at all times.
  • All FEL Parents/Guardians/Carers are required to continue using the Centre’s registration and pick-up process, which will register their visit.   
  • All visitors in attendance at school events are required to follow COVID-19 protocols regarding physical distancing and health measures, including mask wearing where applicable. 

K-12 School Campuses, The Farrall Centre, Friends Health & Fitness, School Shop, Bell Street Grounds and Rowing Sheds – all visitors, parents/guardians/carers, staff, volunteers and contractors

  • Parents/Guardians/Carers can drop off and pick up students on both campuses in designated areas, maintaining appropriate physical distancing at all times
  • Any visitor (except staff or students) entering the School, for reasons other than for pick-up or drop-off of their child at the School, is also required to sign in using the electronic platform available at their nearest reception point.  These are located at the Main Reception and High School Office (Commercial Rd Campus), along with the Morris Office and Clemes Office (Argyle St Campus). The school electronic sign-in platform is for evacuation and child safeguarding purposes.
  • Parents and Guardians are also reminded to contact a teacher or Head of School via email or phone if they wish to arrange an on-campus meeting.
  • All visitors in attendance at school events are required to follow COVID-19 safety measures.

 

Support for Community Mental Health

The School Psychologists have put together a referral and resource webpage to support students with the current COVID-19 issue and more general health concerns.

 

A Tasmanian Lifeline

Lifeline Tasmania has set up a new service for Tasmanians, specifically to deal with the need for information, advice and support due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. Lifeline’s 13 11 14 crisis line continues to be available for those with significant and ongoing mental health issues, including those having suicidal thoughts.

 

Headspace

Headspace has also provided a valuable resource for families with information and tips to support the balance of online schooling and working from home.