Principal's News

It was wonderful to see happy and refreshed faces return to Old Orchard last Monday ready to start Term 3. Unfortunately our first week back didn’t end as we hoped and we were once again required to move to remote learning. Whilst this is not our preferred or ideal learning model (we would much rather be all together at school!) we are very proud of the efforts of our students, parents and teachers for their attitudes and approach to such challenging and uncertain times.

The cancellation of our much anticipated house athletics on Friday was a disappointment for our Year 3 – 6 students as they had been eagerly anticipating the event since it had been rescheduled from last term.  At this point we are unsure of what the plan for athletics will be moving forward into the term.  Can I take the opportunity to thank Sam Snow for incredible organisation, enthusiasm and flexibility in working to provide such a rich learning experience for our students.  Other options are currently being investigated and we will inform the school community as we have more idea.

There have been some slight changes to the whole school implementation of remote learning this time based on feedback from various sources.  It is important to acknowledge that the programming and planning that goes on at school cannot possibly be replicated exactly to fit the remote learning model.  Nor can it be expected that the conditions for remote learning are exactly the same from household to household.  We do understand that the program on offer is not perfectly tailored to meet the needs of every family but these are not perfect times.  We are open to further input regarding remote learning so this can be considered and discussed should we have further lockdown periods. We would encourage any feedback to be directed via email to either Rachel Barnes (rachel.barnes@education.vic.gov.au)  or Jen McCann (jennifer.mccann@education.vic.gov.au) rather than directly to class teachers.

We know our students have returned to school incredibly smoothly and happily after past periods of remote learning and we know that this will be the case again.  We have so much to look forward to coming up this term including camps, zoo excursions, book week, the production and we can’t wait to see everyone back at school. 

Keep safe everyone and look after yourselves and your families.

Jen McCann

Acting Principal