Principal Introduction

Dear Parents and Carers, 

As we enter another significant lockdown my thoughts are with you and your children. Having three children I understand the challenges of home schooling and the pressures that it can place on family members. We already know that the transition to remote learning is met with varied responses. We have students that have prepared diligently for the exam period and others that are completing end of semester learning tasks and assessments, many students will no doubt be feeling frustrated and anxious about the sudden lock down and transition to remote learning. Others will be concerned about not seeing friends every day and missing out on sport related commitments and potentially finals. 

In recognition of the challenges faced by many students the College has 2 key priorities for the next 7 days:

1. ensuring the continuation of learning and
2. supporting student wellbeing and promoting strategies to support them to THRIVE during this unfortunate period.

Our structure of running a normal timetable and supporting students with video conferencing continues to be at the center of the learning and wellbeing experience during this period of remote learning. I encourage you to work with your student to make sure that they are supported to engage with the structure that the College is providing. This structure of timetabled Zoom-based lessons will ensure regular social contact and opportunity for staff to support student learning and address any challenges that present. If your student is finding it difficult to engage with the learning model in place, please contact your Home Group teacher for support. 

As a College we have a strong focus on supporting students to THRIVE and hope that the following suggestions can help you to keep your child engaged and feeling good over the next 7 days. 

Schooling 

Your child will be set learning tasks online and everything they need is just a few clicks away. You can help your child by setting routine for learning time. 

• Work out a schedule with your child for when they can get stuck into their schoolwork, make sure you factor in breaks, snacks and time to play/relax. Your child is not expected to be glued to a desk from 9am-3:30pm. Their learning routine needs to be manageable for them and your family. Your child’s education will return to normal soon so in the meantime the most important thing is that your child feels calm and supported. 

• If you can, set up a designated space for your child to work from. An ideal space is one with minimal distractions, that has a comfortable table and seat. 

Remember your child’s classroom teacher is there to help you. If you have any questions or need some advice on how to assist your child, please get in touch with them. 

Sleep 

A routine can help support good sleep. Having a regular time that you go to bed and get up in the morning can assist our sleep-wake cycle. It makes it easier to get the rest we need. It will also make the transition back to on-site learning easier. An appropriate routine for sleep, including limited screen time for at least 30-60 minutes prior to schedule sleep can make a world of difference. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-hygiene 

Exercise 

Keeping active is so important for you and your kids. Try to get everyone moving by going for a walk, riding a bike or if the weather isn’t on your side then check out Go Noodle it offers lots of fun movement activities. 

Nutrition 

When we are time poor planning and cooking nutritious meals can be hard. Block out some time to cook, eat and clean up. Get the kids involved as much as possible it will teach them valuable life-skills and take some of the pressure off you. 

Connection 

We are social creatures, but physical distancing is having a huge impact on our ability to feel connected to our family and friends. Get creative and schedule time to connect. This is important for your child as they will be missing the regular contact of their school friends and teachers. Schedule time to call, video chat, message, or write a letter to someone special. Not only will it help you and your child, but it will also be helping the people you reach out to. 

Self-Care 

Finding the time for self-care can be particularly challenging if you are trying to work from home and look after children. In stressful times self-care is often the first thing we tend to let go but it is one of the most important. Even taking a brief moment to do something you enjoy will give your mind a break will boost your mood and lower stress. Why not try:

• Thinking about something you are grateful for 

• Take a few slow, deep breaths 

• Listen to music 

• Walk the dog 

Small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference and help your family to THRIVE during this difficult time. If you or someone you know needs help there are many supports listed on the THRIVE website https://thrive-network.com.au/ . 

We are with you during this time and will support where possible, please make contact as needed. Please continue to follow the advice and stay at home and get tested if you are unwell.

Take care and stay safe, 

Kind regards, 

Dean King-Principal