The 5 symptoms that mean your child should stay home from school...

There are many illnesses at this time of the year and we ask that you keep your child/ren home from school if they have any illness symptoms or feel unwell.  This will keep everybody safe. It is a decision every parent faces regularly, whether or not to keep a sick child home from school.

Here are symptoms that mean your child should stay home:

1. Fever - this is a sign of infection and while giving them medicine might bring the fever down, it won't stop them from being contagious.

2. Vomiting or diarrhea - it is unfair all around - to the child and the school - to send a child with vomiting or diarrhea no matter how well they might look to you. Please allow at least 24 hours and check with your doctor for advice.  Some viruses can be contagious for an extra day or so.

3. Bad pain - if your child has any pain that is more than mild, keep them home and check with your doctor.

4. Cough/Flu - this too is a sign of infection and medicine won't stop them from being contagious to others.

5. Illness Medication - If your child has an illness that is being treated with antibiotics, they often need a minimum of at least 24 hours of treatment before  returning to school. Medication should be administered by parents at home. 

6. Injuries - please note a medical clearance is required for your child to be at school if they have had or have an injury.

While it is important for children not to be absent from school, it is also important for them to be well enough to learn and not share contagious illnesses for others to get sick.  It is best to seek medical advice and allow your child time to rest and recover.  Please always notify the school and where possible provide a medical certificate when they are well enough to return.

Please do not bring your child to school if uncertain and "See how they go. Let the teacher know" as children usually tell the teacher and the school will contact you. As a school we need to consider your child's wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. When it comes to your child's health and the health of students and staff, it is better to be safe than sorry.

An explanation is required on Compass or provide the medical certificate to the class teacher. All absences must be explained and recorded. Thank you for your support.