Dear Parents,

Return to School Term 2 Important Change from Previous Announcement

A return to school on Monday, January 11 will now see an extension of the timetables adopted in Term 1. This reverses what was previously announced. I apologise for this late change of mind, but several key factors make this necessary. This means that each school will continue to operate on alternate day cycles for January and most likely February or until Senior classes end by March. The arrival of a more infectious strain of the virus also means that a return to a tried and successful routine is eminently sensible. I would like nothing more than younger boys attending school each day, but the small number of additional hours added by a split daily system does not justify the potential risks. As I have repeatedly announced, we simply have to remain flexible and we have done so in arriving at this amended decision. Keeping school  open remains our priority. Now is not the right time to alter our approach. 

In summary, I am also obliged to point out the following:

1. Courses will continue to keep pace with Cambridge expectations at each year level. School attendance is the most effective way to meet these expectations, but we will also bolster this with online classes. Heads of School will individualize this approach subject to age groups. 

2. Heads of School will advise accordingly on their individual portals all timetable and cycle attendance details. Please read these carefully. We cannot work timetables to suit individuals. 

3. Heads of School (Junior and Prep) will provide Half Yearly indicative grades in the absence of a formal Half Yearly examination this year in these schools. We need this time to cover course materials. Assessment criteria will be explained based on covered work and assignments. We hope to hold formal examinations in May/June.  

4. All boys will be promoted at the end of the school year other than those currently on extended academic probation who are required to meet very basic expectations. Boys on probation who decline to submit work will be placing their seats in jeopardy. 

5. Buses will be operating as per Term 1. 

6. Boys who defer boarding will NOT be allowed to return to the boarding system in Term 2. We must minimize irregular 'comings and goings.' Accordingly, boarders should be in houses within three days of the recommencement unless permission is granted by the Principal. Senior boarders who opt out of boarding in Term 2 will sit their Mocks as day boys. Fees will be adjusted for those who defer. 

7. Boarders will be allowed to take Spring Break this year. 

8. All existing protocols will remain in force.

 

Warm regards,

 

Michael Thomson M.A., Dip. Ed., M.A.C.E
Principal