16 Mar Practicing evidence-based prevention
The UNE Discovery Voyager bookings in Term 2 of the 2020 school year ARE NOT AFFECTED at this point in time by the advice to prevent spread of the coronoavirus in Australia. Due to the ever-changing nature of the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and advice to Australians, we are observing safe practice in everything we do at the university. Our team are minimising group work, practicing social distancing, increasing hygienic behaviours, cleaning and sanitisation and putting in place contingencies for travel to schools around northern NSW.
We understand the value of science in these uncertain times, including evidence-based prevention practices in order to play our part in flattening the curve.
Putting in place measures early to prevent the spread of the virus is crucial to reducing the number of cases, and subsequent impact on the already overloaded health care system. Prioritising the health of communities goes a long way to reducing the longevity and overall effect of COVID-19.
We will monitor the advice and data on COVID-19 and be in touch with schools in mid-April about the go ahead of Term 2 Voyager bookings. We’ll work with you on a school by school basis, and respect the rules and regulations you and the Department of Education put in place around events on the school grounds.
Our program relies on hands on, real time interactions between students, teachers and our amazing facilitators. In late 2019, we cancelled numerous school visits due to bushfires, and prioritised getting to these schools in early 2020. Indeed, in early March the team visited schools in Grafton, Corindi, McLean and Coutt’s Crossing. We will follow this example this year too if need be. Rest assured the Discovery Voyager team will get to you in 2020.
In the meantime, please stay safe from the spread of viruses. Put preventative measures in place early, and remember that this is a great opportunity for everyone in the school to learn more about viruses and their spread.