COVID-19 Vaccination – 14 September Update 1

Dear Parents/Guardians,

I write to you this evening with an update regarding the recent vaccination blitz made accessible to students 16 years and older who are completing VCE Unit 3/4 or VCAL subjects. Due to the strong and positive response to available vaccines, the blitz has been extended until Sunday 19 September.

Similarly, the Pfizer vaccine is now available to all young people 12 years and older. Should you wish to take advantage of this opportunity, more information can be found here.

I would again like to reiterate that, although vaccinations are not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged, and stands as the best way to protect the community and our loved ones. Should you wish to book your or your child’s vaccination, this booking link includes instructions as well as the booking portal.

I am aware that there have been some questions around consent and accessing vaccines. To this, my only response can be to inform you of what the Victorian Department of Health is advising, which is:

Students aged 12 to 15 can book their own appointment and may be able to consent to vaccination themselves if the health professional assesses them to be a ‘mature minor’. This means that the health professional determines that they understand the information relevant to the decision to be vaccinated and the effect of that decision.

Where a student is not considered to be a ‘mature minor’, the health professional will seek consent from the student’s parent/guardian.

Parents/guardians can complete a consent form for COVID-19 vaccination for their child to bring to their appointment, or can attend with their child to provide consent in person.

Although this current situation is complex, I do believe there is hope to be found in our increasing vaccination rates.

Remember, anyone presenting with COVID-19 symptoms, whether vaccinated or not, needs to get a COVID-19 test.

I realise this term has not gone to plan. In looking forward to the well-deserved break ahead, I hope you can all find some time for self-care and recuperation.

Stay safe and well.

Kind regards
Rory Kennedy
Principal