What?
On 23 January 2022, the Victorian Government announced its back to school plan for 2022. A major part of keeping schools open for face-to-face learning is rapid antigen testing (RAT), which will be in place for at least the first four weeks of Term 1.
How?
The Victorian Government has promised to deliver more than 14 million rapid antigen tests to all government, independent and Catholic schools and early childhood education and care services. For the first week of Term 1, 6.6 million tests will be delivered.
Schools are not required to collect proof of negative rapid antigen tests. The introduction of rapid antigen testing for schools and early childcare is a recommendation only – not a mandate. Schools will be responsible for distribution of tests to families.
Who?
The Victorian Government is strongly recommending surveillance rapid antigen testing for all:
- primary and secondary school students;
- primary and secondary school staff; and
- early childhood education and care staff.
Children under 5 are not part of the rapid antigen testing recommendation.
When?
These students and staff are recommended to RAT test twice-weekly at home before school or childcare.
For students and staff at specialist schools, the recommendation is to test five days each week due to the higher risk of severe illness for medically vulnerable children.
Other COVIDSafe measures
Other COVIDSafe measures will also continue to be implemented, including ventilation through air purifiers and shade sales to increase useable outdoor spaces. The Victorian Government has promised to deliver 51,000 air purifiers to government and low-fee non-government schools for the first day of Term 1, and schools are encouraged to hold lessons outdoors where appropriate.
Masks will continue to feature in classrooms for students in Grade 3 and above. As in 2021, teachers will be required to wear masks at all times when not actively teaching or communicating with students. Masks will be available in schools, provided by the Victorian Government.
How we can help
Moores is happy to assist in creating a Return to School Plan, RAT policy and related communications for staff, students and parents and help you deal with dispute management.
Contact us
Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information and assistance.
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