Big Fat Smile is closely monitoring the advice provided by both state and federal authorities regarding the Novel Coronavirus.
The health and safety of our children and staff is our top priority. Our 42 centres across New South Wales are taking a proactive approach, based on the advice of the New South Wales Departments of Education and Health.
We will continue to communicate to you regarding COVID-19 as circumstances evolve. Big Fat Smile services are remaining open as we are currently following all of the State and Federal Department of Health guidelines to remaining open and provide quality care.
CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST FAQ FOR EARLY LEARNING & CARE LONG DAY AND FUN CLUBS (CCS ELIGIBLE)
We strongly uphold our current policies, which have been reviewed for increased stringency. If you would like to review them, they are available at your centre. Please be reassured that if there is any risk to families and staff at your service we will advise and update you immediately.
On Sunday 15 March 2020, the Australian government announced new measures to protect the Australian community in its response to the COVID-19 virus. This includes the requirement that all individuals arriving in Australia from an international destination must self-isolate for 14 days. This means that children enrolled in our services, who have travelled overseas, are not able to attend for 14 days.
We continue to receive daily updates and directives from State and Federal government such as the NSW Department of Health, the Early Childhood Education and Care Directorate (our regulator) and Big Fat Smile’s Critical Incident Team to continually assess and update information. Protecting the safety and wellbeing of our children and educators is paramount, and the information we receive daily is essential in our decision-making. Each service follows strict hygiene practices and directors in each of our services will provide updated information to families outlining the specific strategies being used to reduce the spread of infection.
We have also recognised the need to move Early Education online in these trying times. As such, it is with great pride that we present to our families and communities @Home with Big Fat Smile.
@Home with Big Fat Smile aims to build a sense of community by helping families participate in a range of educational, fun and engaging learning experiences at home alongside your child. This will support their learning, development and well-being.
We will continue to update our families, as new information becomes available. Please contact us if you have any questions.
RETURNING TO CHILD CARE SUBSIDY MODEL- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Persons seeking further information are being directed to visit:
- The NSW Health website – infectious disease alerts: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/diseases/Pages/coronavirus.aspx
- The Department of Education, Skills and Employment: https://www.dese.gov.au/news/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov
- The Australian Government Department of Health Factsheet: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert
- The World Health Organisation Website: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
We are providing regular updates to our families, Centre Directors, educators and all workers in line with advice from the relevant authorities.
Feedback on our approach can be directed to: [email protected]
Useful links for families:
Big Fat Smile – COVID-19 FAQs For Families Valid as at 9.06.2020
Australian Government – Treasury
Here’s what we’re doing to help support your family budget
Payments to support households
Translated Information on COVID-19
