HUNTER teachers are expecting an increase in positive cases at - and subsequent closures of - schools, as the majority of students return to classrooms this week.
Years two to 11 returned on Monday - apart from at Thornton, Irrawang and Mayfield West public schools, which were closed for cleaning and contact tracing - joining the other grades that went back last week.
Since October 17, seven public schools and one Catholic school in the Hunter have closed after cases in their communities.
Independent Education Union NSW/ACT Newcastle organiser Therese Fitzgibbon said she expected to see more closures now all grades have returned.
"I think it's likely we will see an increase in school closures and given students, particularly primary students, will not be vaccinated, they're still at risk, so I think it's imperative where schools do identify cases that they have to close for the protection of both students and staff," she said.
"Schools are prepared and are aware it's a likelihood."
She said "teachers are definitely anxious" and measures such as cleaning and separating student cohorts were "critically important to ensure staff are feeling supported".
"I think we will start to get a lot of questions as the week goes on, I think people now that they're back in full will start to see issues arising that they may not have predicted in the lead up."
NSW Teachers Federation regional organiser Jack Galvin Waight said closures were an important health and safety measure.
He said members were "understandably anxious" and the region's case numbers were "concerning".
"We welcome schools returning, but there are still many risks and challenges."
He said the union would monitor the situation, safety measures and prioritise the health and safety of school communities.
