Masks are on and it's back to school for many pupils across Central who begin the 2022 school year this week.

Students in Year 4 and up have an extra item to remember as they will be wearing face masks due to the current red traffic light setting.

Dunstan High School principal Reece Goldsmith said he was excited about the year and that his team has hit the ground running.

“We are settling our students so they feel safe and secure.”

On the topic of wearing masks he said there was a high level of acceptance.

“On Wednesday we had all Year 9's and 13's 'masked up' except a couple who forgot but were happy to wear one that was provided.

 “I have always been proud of how Dunstan staff and students – and indeed this community always step up when they need to.

“I am sure if or when things get challenging we will overcome together and have a great year.”

The students of Goldfields Primary school Cromwell started back yesterday with three very excited students in Year 2 and Year 1 eager to get back to see their friends after a long summer break.

Twins Bobby and Adison squeezed both sides by Ava Meiring, who was very excited to be back with her buddies

Maniototo Area School (MAS) principal Joe Ferdinands said they too have begun the year really well.

“We have put in place all the requirements as prescribed by the Ministry to the best of our ability, we are aware of what lies within our control and what lies beyond our control.”

On the first day of school (Feb 1) MAS had almost 96% attendance, Joe said.

“Mask wearing is very good. We give our students a short break between periods so that they can go out into the open, take off their masks and get a breather….we are quite focused on student and staff wellbeing.”

Clyde School principal Steph Kitto said her students were resilient and quick to adapt to change.

“Staff will ensure that there are plenty of opportunities to take their learning outside and we will schedule additional breaks throughout the day to allow students to move outside for some fresh air.”

Along with masks, school stationery was required to gear up children for learning.

Paper Plus team members Sophie Rogers and Myah Turnbull showcase new “Spencil” lunchbox and homework bags which have been popular this year

Manager of Alexandra Paper Plus Sam Robinson said it has been a “really smooth” back to school period.

“Our aim is always to take the stress off parents and make it as easy as possible.”

“We have had plenty of stock to meet demand, and lots of ways for parents to shop. The team have done so well and service for customers has been fast.

“We have all the school lists in store and online, or anyone can drop their list to us and we can get the order sorted.”

Parents and caregivers can give a sigh of relief as they know their children are safe and ready to take on whatever the year ahead has instore.

What we know for sure, is that being resilient and learning how to live with change is a subject that will be part of everyone's curriculum in 2022.

Find more information about the red traffic light setting and how it impacts schools here ( https://www.education.govt.nz/covid-19/advice-for-schoolskura/ )