The Chartwell-based school for learners with special needs education, Unity College said the school had decided to switch to online learning platforms until 15 February when schools reopened.
This was after the Department of Basic Education announced changes to this year’s school calendar due to the rising number of Covid-19 infections countrywide.
Intermediate phase teacher at Unity College, Ann Alexander said the school had prepared itself to meet all Covid-19 regulations as required by the department. She explained, “After more than a six-week break time apart, Unity College was beyond excited to welcome back familiar faces and newcomers to their Unity family on Wednesday the 13 January.
“Due to the announcement by the Minister of Basic Education that schools close until 15 February, that excitement would have to shift to focusing on online classes.”
She added, “With all 2020 Covid-19 protocol adaptations in place, including being a low density school, the pupils have embraced all Covid-19 protocols with ease for the second time.
“Wearing masks and shields, sanitising on a regular basis, having temperatures taken
three times a day and social distancing have become part of their daily routine.”
She also added that routine, which their learners thrived on, also helped them to build confidence in themselves and the face to face interaction strengthened the emotional and social component of just being a child. “To support our new normal, the classrooms have been designed with desks one and a half metres apart, sanitiser and warm water are available throughout the day.”
She concluded, “With our Senior Phase pupils, the teachers move to the different classrooms and pupils stay in one class. Shield masks are worn at all times. Breaks are staggered and extra-mural activities take place before the end of each day in small groups to enable the pupils to integrate and enjoy sport and cultural activities.”
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