2 September 2020 Coronavirus Update
As a result of Stage 4 restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne, TAFEs have moved to remote and online learning, except for critical teaching activities that cannot be delivered remotely. Students who are invited to attend campus for study can travel more than 5 kilometres from their home but must adhere to the 8pm – 5am curfew.
Where face-to-face teaching and assessment is required, 1.5 metres physical distancing must be adhered to at all times. Face coverings are also mandatory for people aged 12 and over and you must wear a face covering while at and when travelling to and from TAFE.
Students who are invited to campus must complete a student declaration and undergo entry screening. Students with underlying health conditions or in high risk categories that make them vulnerable should not return to campus. This is in line with the advice provided by the Department of Health and Human Services - COVID 19 information.
Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, will announce on Sunday 6 September what will happen at the end of the six weeks of Stage 4 restrictions. We will pass on any relevant information in regard to how these changes might impact you.
Concierge Team on Campus
The Concierge Team will welcome returning students and conduct temperature checks as part of entry onto the campus. This team consists of Box Hill Institute staff members who have received training to ensure that your health and safety is a top priority. They will also monitor social distancing.
You are asked to arrive 15 mins before class to ensure you can be screened before your scheduled class begins. Once you complete the screening, you will receive a sticker, which indicates your eligibility to be on campus for that day only.
Condition of Entry/Declaration
Condition of entry to campus is subject to adhering to, and following measures to manage the risk of transmission. Students will:
· Stay home if exhibiting even mild symptoms of being unwell
· Agree to daily screening procedures
· Undertake in-class training on managing transmission of COVID-19
· Observe and implement all measures required to ensure the safety of self and others including social distancing and cleaning shared equipment and surfaces between use
Cafés
The cafés at Elgar, Nelson and Lilydale are closed however, the vending machines will be available. Microwaves and drinking fountains are also available on campus.
Libraries
Although the libraries are closed, library staff can be reached by leaving a message on (03) 9286 9283 or by emailing library@boxhill.edu.au. Library staff are working remotely but can still assist you with advice and training on library resources, including the online resources available to you while access to hardcopy resources is not possible.
Apprentices and Trainees
Apprentices and trainees who have been suspended or lost their job completely can register with the Victorian Government's Program for retrenched apprentices and trainees.
You can apply for the new Jobseeker payments if both apply:
· you're not receiving Youth Allowance (Apprentice) payments
· you've lost your job and are not receiving an income due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
If you're seeking Jobseeker payments, you do not need to provide an employment separation certificate. This means that if you have had your apprenticeship suspended – but not terminated – you're still eligible for Jobseeker payments.
If you're looking for alternative employment, you can:
· register with the Victorian Government's Working for Victoria program
· access the Australian Government's Jobs Hub
Advice for International Students
We encourage international students to get the most up-to-date information by:
· visit Study Melbourne
· visit Study in Australia
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) provides information about coronavirus (COVID-19) in many languages.
Student Life
If you require support during this time, please contact Student Life on (03) 9286 9891 or email studentlife@boxhill.edu.au. They can offer advice, support and guidance for students needing assistance.
For International Students, please contact the International Student Wellbeing Officer, Nikki Singh on (03) 9286 9445 or via email at nikita.singh@boxhill.edu.au. If you have questions about your academic progress and would like assistance with your assessments, please contact the International Academic Advisor, Faz Maghami on (03) 9286 9734 or via email at f.maghami@boxhill.edu.au.
Mental Health Assistance
· headspace – https://headspace.org.au/covid-19/.
· Beyond Blue – https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/?utm_campaign=hp_banner.
· Black Dog Institute – https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/coronavirus-resources-for-anxiety-stress/.
· Multilingual Assistance – https://embracementalhealth.org.au/community/multilingual-information.
More information regarding COVID-19 is available on the Department of Education and Training website, which will continue to be updated as the situation evolves.