As with all schools and similar institutions, we are doing everything we can to maintain 'physical' school and keep boys on the right academic trajectory, enjoying their friends and school. Aitchison's extraordinary commitment to protocols and testing both RAT and PCR has made this possible. In this current Omicron surge, our greatest challenge is with unvaccinated boys and almost all of these are in Junior School. The decision to move junior boys to online learning has been a precautionary and logical measure.While all staff are vaccinated, we have teaching staff absences too. It is simply unavoidable in a pandemic that infection spreads (symptomatically and asymptomatically) and this puts pressure on resources from time to time. It is a timely reminder of the sacrifice and professionalism of Aitchison staff who also have concerns for their families. Fortunately, the symptoms of Omicron seem to be milder, but it is nonetheless highly contagious and very difficult to control. Being vaccinated not only helps our resistance, but it significantly reduces the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of hospitalization. The point of my letter is as follows:All our boarders of appropriate age are double vaccinated. All appropriately aged day boys must now also prove they are double vaccinated to participate in physical school. Day boys unable to show evidence of their double vaccination (via mobile phone or hard copy) will not be permitted to attend class and will be sent home. Boys who arrive at school knowingly unvaccinated will face disciplinary measures. Exceptions to the rule may only be approved by our College doctors. In this instance, a boy must first visit our doctor before attending school.  We have given families ample time in which to meet this requirement.Naturally, the continuation of normal school is subject to government decisions.