The Dutch government has announced a further extension of its Coronavirus control measures until at least 20 May 2020. At the same time, the first cautious steps towards reopening the country are taken by reopening primary schools and day-care centres from 11 May and by reintroducing group sports for children and young people.
We know that the ongoing uncertainty – as well as the lack of access to the school building and workshops – is having a serious impact on our students. The extension of the government’s ‘intelligent lockdown’ is necessary, but it takes a toll on all of us. We continue to find ourselves in an unprecedented situation.
It is not always easy to stay focused and be productive in this unique scenario. We greatly appreciate the effort that has been put into finding new ways of working by all of the staff, heads, coordinators and tutors. Without them, we would be facing an insurmountable challenge.
Even though we are slowly moving in the right direction, it is not the time to become complacent – we must stay at home as much as possible and maintain social distancing to help control the spread of the virus. All events in The Netherlands are now suspended until 1 September and there are still fines for people who do not maintain distancing in public. Please see below for more details on the new rules and a reminder of the existing regulations.
In the week before 20 May, the government will assess the situation again. Our plans to reopen the school in phases remain unchanged with graduating students able to return in June for exams and all other students returning at the start of the next Academic year (for more information please read the previous update). We are very much looking forward to seeing you all back at the Academy.
Please read our updated Q&A on the DAE website to find the latest information on any relevant changes.
Links to previous news articles regarding the Covid-19 virus can be found here:
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #1 (Published: 27-Feb-2020)
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #2 (Published: 09-Mar-2020)
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #3 (Published: 13-Mar-2020)
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #4 (Published: 20-Mar-2020)
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #5 (Published: 26-Mar-2020)
DAE COVID-19 UPDATE #6 (Published: 01-Apr-2020)