Head of School Message

Dear Parents and Guardians

When schools were closed in March it was with the purpose of contributing to the national imperative of containing community transmissions of COVID-19. During this last week, draft documents from the Department of Education, have been leaked into the public domain leading to much speculation around the reopening of schools and the recovery plans that will be implemented.

It is important to note that any information that is being circulated is pure speculation.

What I do know is that, at some point, a date will be announced as to when Springfield may reopen. When this date arrives, it will not be a simple matter of unlocking the gates and running a normal school day. We remain mindful of our responsibility to contain community transmissions and strict health and hygiene protocols will be in place to mitigate risk to all on campus as well as to our extended community.

These protocols will include, but are not limited to:

• the use of infrared forehead thermometers to measure the temperature of each person requiring access to the campus
• mandatory wearing of face masks/screens
• use of hand sanitizer prior to entering any venue on campus
• arrangement of desks in classrooms that ensure safe distances between individuals
• no large gatherings of people e.g. assemblies
• continued education and reminders relating to hand-washing routines and safe coughing and sneezing practices

To facilitate our planning, Springfield has prepared a Health and Hygiene Protocol however, we await guidelines from both the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) and the Departments of Health and Education before ratifying and publishing this information.

We are aware that there are pupils and members of staff who, owing to pre-existing conditions, may choose to continue to self-isolate. When school reopens, we anticipate running classroom-based lessons in tandem with the distance learning that is currently in place. In this way, we will be able to accommodate the needs of all. If rolling lockdowns are implemented, Springfield’s remote academic offering will continue.

I am neither a doctor nor a risk assessment specialist, but I am committed to providing a learning environment that is safe for all. With this in mind, I welcome input from members of the Springfield community who have expertise in these fields. Please email me at pmullan@springfieldconvent.co.za should you wish to contribute suggestions of best practice.

I emailed the Senior School pupils, asking for their feedback on distance learning, and was struck by two aspects that were common to almost all responses. Firstly, the responses were positive and resonated an upbeat tone. The girls were able to recognize both their difficulties and their triumphs. This has led to a depth of learning about themselves and their learning styles. Secondly, the girls applauded the efforts, skills and support offered by their teachers during this time. I am so proud of them for adopting such a healthy perspective and for their acknowledgement and appreciation of others.

Keep well and stay safe.

Penny Mullan

Head of School