Infectious Diseases
Students are required to be absent from school for the duration of any infectious period. Health Department regulations on the exclusion from school for specific infections may be obtained from the office.
The following infections require children to be excluded:
Chickenpox
Influenza
Conjunctivitis
Measles (Measles also require the exclusion of any non-immunised children from school. Immunisation is strongly recommended.)
Mumps
Ringworm
Rubella
School sores
Trachoma
Head Lice - please see below for further information
Medications
Occasionally children are required to take medication while at school. In accordance with Department of Education policy, parents requiring any medion to be administered to their child at school must complete the necessary forms at the Administration Office. No medication, of any kind, should be in the child’s possession.
Allergies
Parents are asked to ensure that all current information regarding allergies is provided promptly to the Administration Office for inclusion in the school records. Parents are asked to ensure they update their child’s health management plan with the Principal regularly. Highgate PS is a ‘nut aware’ environment. This is in response to the growing number of children presenting with severe allergies – eg anaphylaxis.
For any serious conditions, such as anaphylaxis or asthma, parents are required to provide an Action Plan prior to commencement at Highgate PS.
Head Lice
Unfortunately, despite all precautions, head lice infestations do occur in schools. Parents will be advised if their child is found to have head lice. Children may return to school once treatment has occurred and there are no remaining signs of lice. A note is sent out to notify parents of a case of lice in the classroom. Hair that is of shoulder length or longer must be tied up.
Drink bottle
We are aware of how easily children dehydrate at school. All children are asked to have a drink bottle to use, particularly at physical education and sport sessions. Children take their drink bottles into class for their use during the day.
Coldwater fountains are available to the children for filling their water bottles.