Canberra schools are preparing for the possibility of a sudden switch to remote learning if the NSW COVID-19 outbreak extends to the territory.
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Teachers and students have been briefed on what to expect if they returned to remote learning and have been asked to take home their laptops and essential equipment each day.
An ACT government spokeswoman said based on the current situation there was no need to move to remote learning, but if the Chief Health Officer were to deem it necessary public schools would be ready.
"The Education Directorate has communicated regularly with schools throughout the pandemic about operating safely and effectively in a COVID-19 environment, including around potential future moves to remote learning," the spokeswoman said.
"This includes discussing with schools the need for continuity of learning and actively thinking about ways to transition current lesson plans into the online space if required."
The directorate has had regular discussions with the Catholic and independent schools sectors, unions and the ACT Council of Parents and Citizens Associations.
Following a review of the 2020 remote learning period, the directorate decided that if there were to be a lockdown in the ACT the children of parents who could not work from home and vulnerable children would be able to attend their usual school, rather than the hub school system used previously.
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Extra technology support would be available to any families who needed it.
St Mary MacKillop College principal Michael Lee said his school had positive feedback from last year's remote learning period.
"We're hoping we don't go into lockdown but if we do we're confident we can do a good job," he said.
"I'm really impressed with the robust nature of the students, their lack of panic, their generosity about this and I'm really grateful for our parents that are supportive of it, and I'm sure many Canberra principals would say the same."
CIT has a blended approach to teaching as it monitors the COVID-19 situation. A spokeswoman said CIT students under stay-at-home orders have been studying remotely.
"CIT will continue to use its innovative and flexible approaches to adapt and respond to this complex situation."
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