Principal's Report

Dear Parents and Carers

‘May you live in interesting times’

I researched the meaning and source of this quote and found very different origins to this statement. While some say it is a blessing and others a curse. The expression is often used ironically, with the clear implication that 'uninteresting times', of peace and tranquillity, are more life-enhancing than interesting ones. Some say the quote is Chinese in origin but it is more likely that it was introduced in the 20th Century in England. 

Regardless of the origins, I think we can all agree that we are living in interesting times and that not many of us would see this as a blessing. It does; however, provide the opportunity to think and reflect on our world. It makes us think outside our normal sphere and way of doing things. For us, as a learning community, we are constantly thinking of ways we can enhance the learning for all - Faith, Academic, Wellbeing - in a face-to-face environment, and if needed in an online learning environment.

With the unprecedented nature of protective measures taken and to be taken against COVID-19, we need to transition to a learning format that ensures continuity in learning for all our students. We are well placed to offer home-learning opportunities for all students. We have been working collaboratively to design good programs of learning for each year group. The expectations are different depending on the year level and student’s access to technology. Students need to engage with their learning from home. Maintaining a regular routine is key to a successful self-directed learning experience and alleviating anxiety that may result from such a disruption.

For all Students and Parents/Carers, Compass ( https://oconnor-nsw.compass.education) will be the main form of communication. If you do not have access to Compass please contact our front office for instructions. This will be the way we will communicate to you. For students without internet access, learning packages have been supplied. Google Classroom will be used to post lessons. Here is a Parents Guide to Google Classroom.

The best way to stop the spread of disease is good hygiene. Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water every couple of hours is a great way to prevent the spread of disease. This video has a good demonstration https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0EN4wMvkiw&feature=youtu.be

Social Distancing is another way to prevent the spread of disease. This video is another good resource https://www.health.gov.au/resources/videos/coronavirus-video-social-distancing

It was with regret that we cancelled Mary Poppins. I would like to personally thank our staff and students who were involved in Mary Poppins. Rapidly unfolding developments with COVID-19 led to this unforeseeable and heartbreaking decision. The work of staff, in particular, Sarah Watson, Melissa Killen and Melita Roache has been outstanding. The students have been so resilient and I thank them for their understanding. Unfortunately it is not possible to postpone as a number of the cast and crew will not be available later in the year. 

I will leave you with a quote from JRR Tolkein.

What will you do in this time? Will you hoard or will you help? As St Mary of the Cross Mackillop said ‘never see a need without doing something about it’. Please look after yourself, your family, friends and neighbours during this time. If you need support, please contact us. 

What new learning will you undertake this week?

Regina Menz