Principal's Report

Dear Families and Friends

Amidst the emerging COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Pandemic we managed to pack Term 1 with a series of exciting whole school events.  Since last writing we have had the Year 12 Formal, the SCSA Swimming & Diving event, the Year 12 Retreat, the Athletics Carnival, the combined Year 9 and Sport & Rec Camp, and the International Women’s Day Assembly.  We are grateful that we have had the opportunity to come together, celebrate, train, compete, pray, reflect, celebrate, explore, challenge ourselves, celebrate again as a community determined to Flourish as Presentation.

However, we find ourselves in unusual times at the writing of this article.  The Term 1 holidays started earlier than expected and whilst our students have been at home, staff have been engaged in preparing for a prolonged period, if required, of remote learning.  As a college, we feel well prepared to support our students in the continuity of learning, ever aware that we need to be flexible and adaptable as new information comes to light.  Please refer to our Guidelines for Remote Learning: 

Many of us, as we see events unfold and watch the news and updates diligently, may have heightened levels of concern and anxiety regarding the many impacts of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Pandemic. In times of uncertainty and fear, these thoughts and feelings are normal and understandable.  Most of us will be able to manage these feelings through being resilient and practising positive coping skills; however, it is also natural that some may feel overwhelmed, distressed or worried.  It is important that we discuss news of the virus with those in our care openly and honestly.  Below, please find some links to some resources which may help:

Resources

A range of key resources, including videos and tips for young people, have been collated to promote ongoing wellbeing and good health across the school community:

• SPECIAL REPORT: Coronavirus – Dr Michael Carr-Gregg developed this video for parents and school staff.
• How to talk to your children about coronavirus – ABC News article
• Worried about your child getting coronavirus? Here’s what you need to know – The Conversation article
• Talking to children about natural disasters, traumatic events, or worries about the future – This Emerging Minds video introduces ways for parents and carers to manage media coverage of traumatic events, and talk to their children about their worries and fears
• Traumatic events, the media and your child – This Emerging Minds fact sheet provides guidance on how to support and reassure children during ongoing media coverage of COVID-19.

Try to maintain a practical and calm approach

While families are the main source of comfort and information, school staff play a key role in supporting and reassuring children and young people. Familiarity, predictability and stability in the school environment enhance children’s sense of safety and capacity to manage emotional responses.  Refer to:

• the Australian Psychological Society’s advice for maintaining positive mental health during the Coronavirus outbreak
• Beyond Blue’s information about mental health in relation to the coronavirus, facts about anxiety, and other practical advice and resources at www.beyondblue.org.au
• the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Melbourne’s keeping healthy and staying safe video with Infectious Diseases Physician Dr Andrew Daley
• Headspace’s information for young people and Tips to maintain a healthy headspace.

From a faith perspective, I wanted to share this with you all:

This health crisis is challenging many of us to make sacrifices in our lives. Some are huge, such as those made by exhausted health care workers around the world, desperately trying to keep patients alive (while avoiding the illness themselves).  Other sacrifices fall more in the category of inconveniences.  It is inconvenient when events are cancelled, schools close, and travel is limited.  It is inconvenient to wash our hands intentionally and regularly. But this kind of sacrifice is at the very centre of our faith. Every time we gather around the Lord’s Table, we celebrate the powerful way Christ showed us how to love others.  He sacrificed everything in self-giving love for us, and he invited us to do the same.  In turn, we die to ourselves—through inconveniences and more—in order to love those around us.  Truly loving others will always cost us something. We may grumble about or resist changing our habits, especially if it’s unclear what’s in it for us.  But we need to remember that many of these actions are more about protecting others. Perhaps the invitation amidst this crisis is to embrace the inconveniences fully, and then move beyond them to seek out the best ways to serve those who are most in need.

Copyright © 2020 GPBS (Gather Proclaim Break Send)

Wishing you and your families a safe holiday and Easter Blessings.

Warm regards

Filina Virgato

Principal