We have been meeting at school this week to interpret the latest recommendations and requirements from local and educational authorities, to determine when certain students can and should return to school, and to make provision for these students in a way that is safe for them and for our teachers.
LIK remains closed until further notice, with a very small group of children in the building on Notbetreuung terms since their parent have vital occupations.
Primary has an even smaller group of such children, and although we expect more Notbetreuung youngsters next week, Primary remains closed. Distance learning at all levels will therefore resume on Monday April 27.
We plan to reopen Secondary partially on Monday 4 May. This is in the spirit of the recommendations handed to state schools by the authorities, although we await clearer indications from them. We want to invite back to school, on an adjusted timetable, the students who are preparing for, or would have undergone, examination sessions: Grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. We consider this a duty to these older students, to ensure that they are back on track as quickly as possible.
No student or colleague considered for any medical reason to be at high risk during the current pandemic will be expected to return to school. We will put in place the best possible hygiene and disinfection instructions and resources, and the timetable for this partial return will maximise physical distancing. The timetable will also reflect the need for younger Secondary students to continue with distance learning. While we are realistic that this first stage towards normality will be challenging, we are determined to make it safe and efficient.
We are here as ever to answer everyone’s questions whenever they have them.
Stay healthy!
David Smith