Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery has announced today that school camps can recommence from the beginning of Term 2 (Tuesday April 26), based on the latest health advice.
School camps were postponed or cancelled under the high COVID-19 caseload settings introduced on advice from the Chief Health Officer on February 8, 2022, to keep schools and childcare settings operating safely.
Today's announcement is welcome news for school communities, with camps being a highly valuable part of student education, skills building and wellbeing, and forming part of the curriculum in areas such as outdoor education, health and physical education, the arts, and leadership.
To support the safe return of school camps, the Department of Education has developed risk assessments and guidelines for schools to use which have been prepared based on advice from the Chief Health Officer. This includes the requirement for schools to be provided with a copy of the camp provider's COVID-19 Safety Plan, which must meet the Guidelines for School Camp Providers prepared in accordance with the Chief Health Officer's advice.
School plans will require schools to provide Rapid Antigen Tests and make isolation arrangements for anyone that shows COVID-19-like symptoms, who tests positive or is identified as a close contact, as well as continue supporting regular hygiene practices, physically distancing where possible and cohorting student groups.
On February 11, 2022, Minister Ellery announced a $3 million assistance package for school camp providers directly impacted by schools postponing or cancelling camps due to the additional health measures in place. This assistance has been extended until May 6, 2022, to provide support while camps get back up and running.
A $500,000 incentive fund is also available to provide opportunities for public school students to participate in day trips and incursions.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"School camps are an important opportunity for students to step outside of their usual environment, push their boundaries with new experiences, and develop a range of social skills.
"While it was disappointing that camps could not go ahead under the high caseload settings, it was necessary for the safety of school staff and students, and for continuity of learning.
"Now with school camps returning, there will be additional COVID-19 safety measures in place to protect staff and students.
"Camp providers will need to meet the Chief Health Officer's requirements (many will already meet these), have safety plans, and schools will need take additional steps to ensure the necessary precautions are taken."
