Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs for Staff

Frequently asked questions

Staff wellbeing

• Does the school have a COVIDSafe plan in the event that there is a suspected COVID case at School?

  A review of the School’s emergency management plan has been undertaken and the Senior Executive is comfortable that we are prepared in the event of a potential COVID-19 case.

  As required by the Victorian Government, the School has a COVIDSafe plan which outlines the steps we have taken in order to protect our staff, students and visitors during the return to onsite learning. This plan also contains the steps the Headmaster/Senior Executive would take should there be a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 at BGS.

• I am classified as a vulnerable individual. What options will I have if there is an outbreak in my local area?

  Should there be a COVID19 outbreak in your area, and you are deemed to be a vulnerable worker, please contact your Head of School, the Chief Operating Officer or Director of Human Resources. Together we will discuss options to ensure you are supported and feel safe within your working environment.

• I think I need to speak with a counsellor. Who can I call?

  If you feel like you would benefit from some additional support, you can contact the School’s Employee Assistance Program. This service, provided by Converge International, offers confidential telephone and consulting counselling services 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. They can also be contacted on 1300 687 327.

  Alternatively, we have compiled a list of helplines, websites and other community related services available to provide support during these unprecedented times.   

• Further resources

  A range of fact sheets are available to assist with managing your wellbeing when working remotely, returning onsite or when navigating the challenges of life in general. 

  Please note: additional resources will be added periodically to the Staff drive under BGS Intranet / My Employment / Wellbeing. You can access this by locating the S Drive on your computer.

  Coping with stress during COVID-19 (PDF)

  Strategies for managing stress (PDF)

  6 Tips to protect your hands during handwashing (PDF)

  Tips for remote working for professional support staff (PDF)

  How to wear a face mask (PDF)

   

   

Work related queries

• What are the protocols I need to be aware of when onsite teaching/working recommences?

  The School has established a comprehensive list of protocols to support a safe and supportive return to working onsite. These have been distributed via email and can be found here. All staff are asked to familiarise themselves with these protocols prior to returning onsite.

• I’m a teacher at BGS. Last year I only needed to be onsite when I was teaching or had other responsibilities to attend to. Is this still the case?

  Academic staff who do not have teaching/pastoral commitments at either end of the day are encouraged to come in later/leave early. You should only be onsite when you are performing duties that require you to attend onsite. Further information will be communicated by your Head of School or the Headmaster as the Government Guidelines change.

• I am a Professional Support Staff member. When will I be able to return to working onsite?
  • At this stage, the advice is that staff who can work from home should do so. The School is closely monitoring Government advice and will advise when this is able to be changed. 
• What do I do if I am sick and cannot work?

  If you are unwell, you are required to follow the usual process of notifying your manager or DOBs, providing work etc. A leave form, and accompanying medical certificate (if longer than two days absence) will also be required.

Other

• Who should I speak with if I have further questions?

  Further questions should be directed to your Head of School, Chief Operating Officer or Human Resources. It might also be helpful to review the comprehensive return to work protocols.

  Please contact Human Resources if you require a copy of these protocols.