In response to the National State of Disaster, as declared by President Ramaphosa in terms of the Disaster Management Act, St John’s College will be closed from Wednesday 18 March until Tuesday 5 May 2020, and all planned events and tours during this time have been cancelled.
The world-wide COVID-19 outbreak we are experiencing is new to everyone - it is unprecedented, it is complex, and it's challenging on so many levels. However, it also represents a remarkable opportunity to illustrate what our St John's College teaching teams are truly capable of.
As a school, we have developed new capabilities and a world-class online learning platform to ensure we're prepared for this time. All teaching and learning will revert to the St John's e-learning platform during this time. Staff are trained and stand ready to connect with classes and students on this remarkable platform.
We encourage our families to continue to reinforce personal hygiene, washing their hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or hand sanitizer as well as adopting social distancing as a key behaviour as we strive to ‘flatten the curve’. Unnecessary travel should be avoided and if you or a family member display any of the COVID-19 symptoms, please seek immediate medical assistance.
Lastly, please continue to rely on credible and accurate information sources regarding COVID-19, such as the NICD and WHO websites, or local healthcare providers. We strongly caution against unverified commentary from the internet and social media platforms.
We understand that St John's College is a community constantly on the move, and appreciate the anxiety felt as we face the unknown. However, we are confident that if we act swiftly, with purpose and collectively, we can limit the effects of COVID-19 on our community and country.
We look forward to your continued support as we navigate this uncertain environment together, protecting ourselves and our communities. Together we will embrace this challenge and ensure the delivery of a St John's educational quality and care that defines us.
Remember the truism: This, too, shall pass!
Sincerely
Mr Stuart West
Executive Headmaster