ADEK: 4-Wk Delay for School Return from Yr 6
The Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Committee for COVID-19 has outlined further measures in coordination with Abu Dhabi's Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). Regular inspections will be carried out to ensure that schools are following the rules.
In a move to ensure adequate monitoring and evaluation of the new precautionary measures for schools, ADEK has announced that whilst students from kindergarten/Foundation Stage to Grade 5/Year 6 may return on the first day of the new academic year, older students will rejoin them four weeks later.
The authorities have also confirmed that no more than 15 students will be permitted per class when schools re-open - this compares with 10 students as announced by the KHDA in Dubai. All sports and extra-curricular activities will remain suspended.
Schools may choose between five re-opening operating models that include: full-day or half-day face-to-face learning, alternating days, alternating weeks or a hybrid model.
Full online learning is also an option for the first term, subject to prior coordination with the school.
COVID-19 testing is mandatory for staff as well as pupils above the age of 12, whilst face masks are mandatory for staff and students above the age of 6 and there will be daily temperature checks. Students and staff will be required to maintain a distance of 1.5 metres, and break times will be staggered to encourage physical distancing.
