From the Principal

After six weeks of remote learning it has been a real joy to see our Foundation, Years 1, 2, 11 and 12 students return to school this week. Our buildings have become alive once more. A number of students commented to me on how much they have missed being at school.  We have heard many stories of success, challenges, the delight of eating when you want and not waiting for the bell and also the stories of gratitude from our families for the wonderful efforts our staff have made.  As Principal, I cannot be any prouder of my colleagues.  Their dedication, flexibility and caring nature has been on display for us all.

 

To our parents, I am so grateful for all you have done throughout this time.  Your story throughout this time, will always be a unique story to your situation.  For some, the time you have had to work alongside your child is one that was fruitful and will always be cherished.  For others, remote learning was a test of all tests.  Between home duties, working from home, trying to accommodate the variety of ages within the household, remote learning was something you may never want to experience ever again.  The difference in experiences is also relevant for the children themselves.  Some students thrived, while others faced their greatest learning challenge yet.  As a College we will certainly make the most of this experience to reflect, explore, adapt and make changes if necessary.  In the coming weeks, we will engage with all members of our community to reflect upon this experience.

 

Please continue to refer to our St Augustine’s College, Kyabram Return to Face-to-Face Teaching Manual to answer any of the questions you have.  This document is a live document that will be updated as necessary.  Any important changes will be sent as a notification to families.  A link to the manual is below:

 

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RrDdsjL27Lyu7ydOv6KvT1TnFO6ZbZIr/edit#heading=h.gjdgxs 

 

This week is National Reconciliation Week. It is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, culture and achievements, and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The theme this year is, “In This Together”, a theme so important for not only Indigenous Australians at this time, but for all Australians.  Our challenge today is to continue to search for places of healing as we sit uncomfortably with the truth of the past and walk together with Indigenous people to find the moments and places of healing.

 

Last Friday, I received correspondence from the VCAA confirming the VCE Examination Schedule for this year. Written examinations will begin on Monday 9th November and conclude on Wednesday 2nd December. Our students will be pleased to hear that they will receive their ATAR score before the end of 2020.

 

Lastly, the recent testing blitz for Victorian school staff has now concluded.  All staff at St Augustine's College that were tested were all clear.  Our cleaning schedule has significantly increased as we undertake all the required measures to ensure the best possible care for all members of our community.  We continue to remind all our community members that if you have any of the symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19), however mild, you should seek advice and get tested.

  • The symptoms to watch out for are:
    • Chills or sweats
    • Fever
    • Sore throat
    • Cough
    • Shortness of breath
    • Runny nose
    • Loss of sense of smell

Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support.

 

Keep safe and keep well.

 

Brayden Stone

Principal