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October not only brings more freedoms for Victorians but also relief for students, parents and teachers – as schools gradually return to face-to-face learning.

The first cohort to head back into classrooms is Year 12 ahead of Tuesday's general achievement test which is taken prior to the VCE exams.

Victoria's Chief health Officer says isolation protocols will be different under the back to school plans .

In the event of an outbreak the entire school will not be forced to quarantine – instead mask wearing, vaccination status and length of exposure will be considered.

School ventilation is being improved and rapid antigen testing could also become a crucial tool.

The state government has announced more financial support to help students with the transition – $230 million will see the Tutor Learning Program continue into next year.