I want to say a big thank you to those who have embraced the learning from home regime again under our current COVID lockdown restrictions. I acknowledge that it is potentially harder this time as we are following on from a three week break which was mostly lockdown too, so you and the children have probably had enough of each other.

The Government has not been specific about the reason a family might send their child to school – it is left up to you and to us to work that out, but I am thankful that you are all doing that wisely. We recognise that everyone’s circumstances are different, and we remain more than happy to have your child on site if you deem that necessary.

Given that we are all hoping the lockdown will be lifted at the end of next week, some modifications have been made to the home learning, especially for Primary. If however, we do enter a longer period of lockdown, we will make some adjustments to ensure students do not fall behind. This is very difficult the younger they are of course. Thanks for your patience and co-operation as we work our way through this.

With construction workers also under lockdown and recognising that a number of our families are in this industry, if you are feeling the financial pinch, please contact our Bursar, Ros Black, and she will be happy to work something out for you. This applies to any family who might be suffering financial hardship at this time.

We have also posted on our website a range of resources to help families cope with the current situation, so please browse those as I am sure you will find them helpful.

https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/community/parent-support-information/parent-and-family-wellbeing-resources

I know there are moves afoot to try to get the Central Coast excluded from being considered part of the current Greater Sydney area during the pandemic and we are all hopeful this might be the case. Until then, it is important we play our part in following the lockdown orders.

We got through last time, and we will do so again now. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you are finding this overwhelming, as we stand ready to support you in any way we can.

Phillip Nash

Principal