Assistant Principals' Update
Learning and Teaching
Remote Learning
We find ourselves in unfamiliar territory with greater considerations being given to how we, as a College, would support the learning of our students off-campus should a school closure occur due to COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
Let me assure you that the team of teachers here at the College are well prepared and have the resources available to them to make the transition to remote teaching and learning should the situation require this. The students, too, have the tools that would be required for them to continue to engage with their learning in such circumstances.
As part of this preparation, teachers across the College are continuing to develop resources that can deliver learning via non-traditional means, including online learning through SIMON and other platforms. For this to be effective, it is important that students have everything they require to ensure that they can access materials and course content from a non-school location. This could mean anything from a particular text book to their laptop chargers. It is highly unlikely that anything left at school would be accessible if the College was advised to close. Teachers will work with all students to prepare them for this, and we would ask that parents and guardians also have these conversations so that all students are as prepared as possible.
Please be proactive in considering possible suitable work spaces at home, where students can have the appropriate access to online learning and be in a space that is conducive to learning.
Whilst this time of uncertainty can be unsettling, be reassured that the College staff are doing everything within their power to prepare for minimal disruptions to curriculum delivery, to make the transition to off-site learning as seamless as possible and plan for effective communication strategies so that learning may continue. Teachers will be discussing strategies for continued off-site learning with their classes as the opportunity and the need arises.
Creating a Productive Study Space
Organising a comfortable and productive study space is a vital component of successful study at home. With the possibility of remote learning, this is more important than ever.
Manage your Time
Approach each day with a plan. Start your day according to your normal routine to get you in the right frame of mind.
Be Comfortable (but not too comfortable!)
Make sure your desk and chair are at the right height for extended periods of work. You should have a chair that supports correct posture. Lying on the couch or on your bed might seem like a comfortable solution, but it is important that you switch your mindset from one of relaxation, to a mindset that is ready to learn.
Control your Environment
Try to find a place that has natural light, as this will brighten your mood as well as your room. Minimise disruptive noise and distractions by setting up in a quiet space away from the busyness of family.
Turn off your Phone
Phones can be a source of constant interruption when you are trying to learn. Switch your phone to silent, or even keep it in another room if you want to minimise the distraction.
Keep it Positive
Display an inspiring quote, or an image that puts you in a positive frame of mind. Whilst you will be working hard in your study space, it is good practice to make it a place of inspiration, a place where you will want to do your best to achieve your goals.
Take Rest Breaks
It is important to plan your time and reward yourself with rest breaks. This will keep your mind fresh and active and ensure that your study time is more productive.
Parent/Teacher Interviews
We are disappointed to have cancelled the Parent/Teacher Interviews scheduled for the final week this term. Teachers were looking forward to sharing the learning journey of the girls with you.
Student Free Day
Monday 23 March has been changed to a student free day to allow staff to provide feedback to students and parents regarding progress made in learning this term and to make further preparations for the delivery of remote lessons in the event of a school closure.
Jane Ward
Assistant Principal: Learning and Teaching
Image Credit: Student Health 101
Wellbeing and Engagement
Open Evening
Our Open Evening was not just a wonderful showcasing, but also celebration, of our Kilbreda community. For our students, it was an opportunity to demonstrate their school spirit, their leadership skills and their general friendliness and enthusiasm for helping others. They deserve our gratitude and praise. Many students went well beyond their prescribed ‘duty.’
A huge thank you also to our parents/carers who facilitated their daughters’ service on Open Evening.
How to Cope with Stress Related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
It can feel stressful and overwhelming during an event like the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and we can all be affected differently. You might feel overwhelmed by the information, conversations and the increased levels of stress in your community. It can be hard to know what information to trust, especially in a situation where things are changing so quickly.
'Beyond Blue' and 'Headspace' have prepared the following resources to assist you to look after your mental health during this challenging time:
https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/?stage=Live
Child Safe Policies and Practices at the College
Creating and maintaining a child safe organisation and harmonious school environment is the responsibility of all community members. As a school, we are required by law to implement Child Safe Standards to protect children (defined as under 18 years of age) from harm.
The Child Safe Standards issued by the Victorian Education Department requires all Victorian Non-Government Schools to comply with the Ministerial Order from 1 August 2016, as a requirement of registration.
The Child Safe Standards work by:
- Driving changes in organisational culture – embedding child safety in everyday thinking and practice;
- Providing a minimum standard of child safety across all organisations;
- Highlighting that we all have a role to keep children safe from abuse.
At the College, all staff participate annually in professional development programs about the expected standards of behaviour as a staff member, and as a matter of good practice, all employees are required to sign their agreement to adhere to the School’s Child Safety Policy at all times.
The Child Safety Policy is below for your awareness and knowledge.
I have also attached below our School Community Code of Conduct which outlines clear standards of behaviour that are expected of all members of the school community in the school environment, or when attending school events. As such, members of the College community are required to conduct themselves in a manner that respects other members of the community, and engages with all college staff in a respectful manner, consistent with the College Values of hope, hospitality, justice, wonder, compassion and courage.
The Community Code of Conduct is below for your awareness and knowledge.
Stephanie Smyth
Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement