While much of the state has been shut down due to strict COVID-19 restrictions, one community is working harder than ever.
Hamlyn Views School, a special developmental school located in Geelong, has continued to help a younger generation that needs it most.
Assistant principal Michele Marcu said it had been an enormous effort by staff, families and students to keep everything running smoothly.
“Our staff have been absolutely fantastic, they’ve put their personal concerns aside and just done what needs to be done to make this period as smooth for the children as possible,” she said.
“Given the nature of a special school, there’s the need for close contact, whether that be changing nappies, feeding … things like that.
“Given some of our students fall in to the most vulnerable category, there was a few fears around what would happen if a staff member or someone passed the virus on to them.”
With the second wave hitting, the school has managed to perfect its COVIDSafe plan.
“The most vulnerable students are staying at home and we’re able to link up with them electronically so we can all keep in touch.
“For those still here, it’s business in a little bit of a different manner.”
Students were initially a little taken aback by seeing their teachers donning face masks and the introduction of distancing measures, but the school has found some creative ways around that.
“We’ve just tried to make everything as fun and easy as possible for them … at the start it was a bit of an adjustment, but most of the students have adapted really well,” Ms Marcu said.
While things may be going well, the ever present fear of the virus hangs heavy on the shoulders of those in charge.
But Ms Marcu credited the school’s staff with going above and beyond what’s normally expected.
“I guess there’s a lot of people doing much more than what would normally be required, but our staff have really done that.
“They’ve put personal fears and to some extent health fears aside, rolled up their sleeves and helped make this as easy as they can for all our children.
“It’s been absolutely amazing to see the power of work they’ve put in during these difficult times and the fact we’re still open with happy students is proof that they’ve done a tremendous job. I can’t thank them enough.”
Ms Marcu said the wider community had also played a helping hand.
“The parents have also been really supportive and helped make this period as easy as possible on the kids, so I’d also like to single them out for special thanks.”
