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Businesses, organisations, schools, and individuals continue the efforts in curbing the spread of COVID-19. A pandemic which has taken the world by storm.
As of June 10, South Africa recorded a total of 55 421 confirmed cases. One of these confirmed cases is a local teacher, stationed at St Dominics Newcastle.
On Friday, June 5, when staff were reporting for duty, the teacher in question reported that he had a cough and a sore throat.He was immediately put into isolation and did not breach the point of safety within the school. Once the children were all in class, he was sent home.
The teacher then quarantined himself and went for the relevant testing for COVID-19. He received his results on June 10. During the entire process, from when he entered the school premises until the moment he left, the school assures he did not enter any part of the school where the virus could be spread.
Despite the teacher testing positive, St Dominics Newcastle prides itself on taking the relative steps to protects its learners and staff.
When the Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, announced schools would be reopening, St Dominics Newcastle immediately implemented a series of standard operating procedures. These included procedures handed down from Curro Holdings, under the guidelines implemented by the Government.
Six screening stations were established at the school. These screening stations are set up to cover all the phases within the school, protecting learners and staff alike.
Furthermore, the school was deep-cleaned and sanitised. Each class set up with markers to ensure learners have enough distance between themselves and their classmates.
Head of the High School, Needha Hurrichand explains all staff members, from maintenance staff to the kitchen staff and teachers also underwent COVID-19 training. This training was spearheaded by TRIVS Medical Services.
“We have also had three inspections from outside parties to ensure the school was fully prepared,” explains Shirley McGhee, Head of the Primary School section.
These inspections were conducted by the Department of Health, Department of Education and the Provincial Department of Education. All three departments agreed St Dominics Newcastle was fully prepared and deemed it safe for learners and staff to return.
During school hours, all staff and learners wear their face masks, adhere to social distancing and sanitise on a regular basis.
Mrs McGhee adds there are also teams of teachers which are allocated to specific duties. These teams cover children’s movements from the moment they step onto the school premises right up until they leave. This is to ensure all regulations and safety measures are adhered to.
Furthermore, after each day, the school is deep-cleaned and sanitised. This includes cleaning all buildings, furniture, classrooms, and bathrooms.
“It must be stressed; we are facing a pandemic. We have to keep safe, wear our masks and sanitise on a regular basis,” emphasises Mrs McGhee.
As countries around the globe combat COVID-19, St Dominics Newcastle remains proactive. Ensuring the safety of its learners and staff always come first.
