Tara Murray
An education advocacy group has welcomed priority vaccine access for VCE students but is calling for more certainty surrounding exams.
The #VCEWhatsThePlanDan group, which is made up for teachers, students and parents, has been vocal in recent weeks calling for certainty for VCE students in regards to vaccines and exams.
The state government announced on Wednesday that every VCE student would be offered a priority Pfizer vaccine in the coming days.
Associate professor Caroline Dowling, who is part of the group, said they wanted the state government to go a step further and make sure students can get their second vaccination within a month of their first.
They said also needed guarantees around exam dates, with nothing announced beyond the GAT on October 5.
“We welcome the announcement of priority vaccination in this regard, something we have been requesting for two weeks,” she said.
“Time is now of the essence.
“Our objective is to make sure, first and foremost, that VCE students get to sit their exams, with as many vaccinated as possible as safely as possible.
“Exams must go ahead – we owe this to the students who have placed their faith in the education system and continued with their studies despite the remarkable challenges.
“If we do not return to COVID-zero by exam time – and we all know that is looking unlikely – what measures is the government planning in order to address risks and allow these students to finish their schooling?
“Students in the north and west of Melbourne, like others around the state, are dealing with enormous stress. It’s no surprise they want to know ‘what’s the plan Dan.”
