COVID-19 (coronavirus) latest advice

It’s vital that all staff familiarise themselves with and follow the advice outlined below. We are committed to providing you with regular updates so you are as informed as possible. Visit www.sa.gov.au/covid-19 for the most up to date information from South Australian government agencies about COVID-19.

Physical distancing at work

All employees must continue to follow the density and physical distancing guidelines outlined by SA Health:

• no more than 1 person per 2 square metres in an enclosed space
• maintain a minimum social distance of 1.5 metres.

There are no caps on the number of people in 1 room, however the above physical distancing and room density requirements must be followed by adults (for example in staff meetings).

Term 3

From the beginning of term 3, the following activities can go ahead as long as SA Health advice (physical distancing and room density requirements) are strictly followed by all adults:

• parents, volunteers, departmental support and other service providers can enter school and preschool grounds. All external service providers and volunteers must complete the COVID-19 site access form (PDF, 263.5 KB) (PDF, 263.5 KB) on entry
• school assemblies (no maximum capacity)
• class photos
• all intrastate camps and excursions (see more information on the camps and excursions page)
• some interstate camps and trips, in line with border restrictions (see more information on the camps and excursions page)
• all school sport competitions, sports days and carnivals, including inter-school competitions (use of shower facilities is not permitted)
• inter-school choirs, bands and other performing art activities
• school formals, socials and discos
• playgroups and occasional care
• larger face-to-face professional learning activities
• visits to nursing homes and aged care facilities.

The above list of activities can recommence at the discretion of the school principal or preschool director.

Requirements that remain in place

• It’s important that students and staff stay home if they are unwell.
• Physical contact (even between students) must be limited. Non-physical greetings should be encouraged.
• Daily student attendance reporting for all schools must continue to be reported by 4pm each day, and weekly for preschools.
• The general public should not access school playgrounds or play equipment.
• Parents must continue to physical distance, including at school pick up and drop off.

AHPPC advice about social distancing in schools

The AHPPC does not believe that the following is appropriate or practical in classrooms or corridors:

• maintaining 1.5m between students
• the ‘venue density rule’ of no more than 1 person per 2 square metres.

Read more about social distancing and preventing illness in schools.

School drop-off and pick-up

Parents should maintain the 1.5m physical distance between themselves and other adults (parents and teachers) at all times, including school drop off and pick up. Schools may need to gently remind parents using their app or newsletter, or by placing appropriate markers or signage at the school gate.