Schools in Byron Bay lose a THIRD of staff after dozens of teachers refuse to get a Covid vaccine

A Byron Bay school is losing a third of its staff after anti-vax teachers refused to get the jab in time for classes to return.

From Monday, only vaccinated workers are allowed in NSW schools to ensure all educational facilities are safe for students.

Shearwater Steiner School, a private co-ed school in Mullumbimby, is struggling to fill the void with 40 staff members having to be let go after refusing the jab.

Byron Bay has become Australia’s anti-vax capital, with extremely low rates among residents

‘We have some teachers who have been here for many years, served the school well and really created an incredible environment for learning,’ principal James Goodlet told the ABC.

‘It will be a huge loss for the school.’

The NSW Government mandated ‘all people working at a school or early education and care facility must be fully vaccinated by November 8, 2021. According to the PHO, relevant work includes’.

Mr Goodlet said his school was reeling from the decision, with as many as 40 members of staff including 30 teachers unable to work because they’re unvaccinated.

‘I’ve had to have very difficult conversations with people just to point out the reality of the situation and that’s taken its toll on me personally,’ he said. 

‘To come in with suitably qualified, experienced teachers in Steiner education – that’s a niche market.’

Mullumbimby (pictured) has one of the lowest immunisation rates for children in Australia and has low coronavirus vaccine figures among adults

Mullumbimby has one of the lowest immunisation rates for children in Australia and has low coronavirus vaccine figures among adults.

The area is yet to hit 70 per cent fully vaccinated and less than 80 per cent have at least a single dose.

This is 10 per cent lower than nearby areas, with schools paying the price for the area’s attitude towards the jab.