FPS Newsletter

Assistant Principal's Report

Motivation and Engagement

It is hard to know what to write as Lockdown 6 continues – as I type this, we know that the lockdown will not be lifted this Thursday, however we have not yet been given further details around what’s next. In past newsletters, I have shared links to mental health and wellbeing supports available and I will list them again below. Please take the time to look through these links as there are many services out there to support you and your families. 

 

While we will continue to provide teaching and learning opportunities for our students, please know that whatever you are able to achieve is fine. We know that some students will complete all tasks and attend all meetings and others will not complete some tasks and miss meetings – this is okay. You know your child/ren best and if they need to slow down or have a break, let them. 

 

I asked myself what I would like to read in my children’s school newsletter right now, that would help me. I know we are finding it harder and harder to maintain motivation and have run out of ideas to keep the kids entertained. Below are a few ideas I have stumbled across, that may also interest you and your children. 

 

Joe Wicks PE Lessons

During the lockdown in 2020, Joe Wicks started his ‘PE with Joe’ lessons on YouTube to help children stay active while at home. 

 

Kids can take free virtual PE classes using trainer Joe Wicks YouTube video series that helps kids replace gym class with exercise in small spaces.

 

Disneynature – Learn and Discover

Explore Disneynature educational materials for curriculum, lesson plans and fun activities. 

 

For families and students in Years 2 – 6, the activities are aimed to inspire a desire to protect the planet through connections to nature.

Story Time from Space

‘Story Time from Space’ is an investigation that aims to inspire students, educators and families to actively engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs through the excitement of space exploration and literacy. 

 

Together with NASA and the Centre for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), ‘Story Time from Space’ gives teachers and families the necessary materials and knowledge to teach fun, accurate STEM lessons.

 

Organisation and Routine

You may have seen a weekly timetable posted on your child’s Google Classroom. Each year group has their own specific timetable which lists their specialist lessons, optional drop-in sessions and whole class meetings. You may wish to add in your child’s teaching group times and place the timetable in a prominent place to help keep track of their meetings. 

 

Family colour-coded timetable
Family colour-coded timetable

I find it easier to manage my children’s schedules (and my own) if I have them all in view – colour coding things also helps organise our day. Keeping to a routine and providing structure can not only support your child/ren but yourself, during uncertain times. 

 

Finally, if you find you are running out of exercise books, we have plenty at school. Please feel free to come and collect what you need – they are stored in baskets, in year level groups in the front office.

 

Links to Support Services and Advice

Support Resources

~ Sarah Abbott, Assistant Principal