We finished term two full of hope that the worst of 2020 was behind us and that we had taken the first steps on the path back to normal. We certainly did not expect to be plunged back into a second round of remote learning and community lockdown. But this year we've learned to expect the unexpected.

Perhaps the routine and predictability of our normal lives lulls us into thinking that somehow we are in charge of our own destinies, the masters of our own ship. In these uncertain times, our frailty reminds us we are dependant upon a sovereign God. Thankfully, because of God and his great mercy, we also have a living hope through Jesus.

(Virtual) Term Tea

We hope that parents and students will be able to join us this coming Thursday evening (17th) at 5:30 pm for a virtual term tea awards program. We're not able to be together enjoying each other's company and sharing a meal together, but let's still gather together online and celebrate our students and their achievements this term. We hope to have a bit of a special treat to share with everyone so keep your eye on your email inbox. Further details on how to be a part of the virtual term tea will be sent out early this week. If you haven't received anything by Wednesday, check your spam and/or trash folder, or contact the school.

Pray for Mrs Williams

We're sad to say that we are not expecting Mrs Williams to be at school during Term 4. Mrs Williams will need to take time away from school to receive treatment for a serious illness. Please pray for her successful treatment and recovery. Pray also for her husband, Steve, and daughter, Amy, as they face some significant challenges together in the weeks and months ahead.

Remote Learning 1.0 vs Remote Learning 2.0

When we finished Term 1 abruptly and were told to be ready for remote learning in Term 2, we did so with a certain amount of excitement and anticipation. Yes, we knew it would be hard, and it was, but it was also a new and rewarding experience that pushed us out of our comfort zone and forced us to quickly learn and adapt to new things. Fort the most part, students, teachers, and parents embraced the challenge and gave it their all. We were so grateful for that. Yes, we were relieved and rather glad when it was all over, but still happy for having had the opportunity to do things differently.

This term, second time around, it was perhaps a different story. The novelty factor was gone, and we knew from the first time around that teaching and learning is best done face-to-face. For many that sense of excitement had been replaced with 'oh, no, not again.' Our region's specific circumstances make it hard to understand the need for such restrictions, and so, quite understandably, frustration has grown and this current period of remote learning has become a feat of endurance.

Parents, thank you for enduring. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for running with perseverance the race set out before us, keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus. Thank you for your hard work.

Students, thank you for your can-do attitude. Thank you for being so adaptable and so resilient. Thank you for working hard and doing your best.

Teachers, thank you for caring so much about your students. Thank you for going above and beyond in your efforts to make remote learning as effective and meaningful as possible. Thank you for being faithful to your calling.

Student of the Week

Week 8

ABCs

Aleph

Bet

Gimmel

Dalet

Hey