A message from the Principal

As we settle into the reality that Remote Learning is (almost certainly) here to stay until the end of Term 3, it seems like a good time to take stock, remind ourselves what is important and realistic and even look for some of the positives that we can find in this new way of living and learning.

Firstly, I want to acknowledge the huge challenge that learning from home poses for parents (especially those that are working). Please make this time work for you - if trying to follow everything set by the teachers is too hard then please be kind to yourself and adapt, omit and get creative. Reach out to the teachers for help - we are still here and can help (remotely) by checking in with students 1:1 and providing advice to you or your child.

Please read  what I wrote for the newsletter back in May and please don't worry about your child 'falling behind' academically. We can catch them up once this is all over - our priority at the moment is to stay safe.

Indeed, learning from home can have upsides as well as drawbacks. Many parents who, whilst finding this challenging, have enjoyed the opportunity to be a closer part of their child's schooling and to 'see them in action' as they learn. They have enjoyed spending more time with them instead of spending evenings and weekends shuttling them to footy training, swimming, ballet, basketball, gymnastics and other commitments.

I read a great article this week called 'The Unexpected Benefits of Learning in Lockdown' with a central message that "a break from traditional education structures can be a wonderful thing for a child’s development".

Whilst we strive to be positive, later in the newsletter I have to share the bad news that our 2020 Celebration of the Arts (COTA) will not go ahead and many other popular and important events for the rest of the year are also postponed or cancelled. I know this news will be disappointing and upsetting to many students.

To finish on a brighter note, I wanted to share this photo taken by a parent, Ele Hills on a walk last week. I am sure the rainbow landing on the top of  the SKiPPS bell tower is a symbol of something promising around the corner!

Stay Safe.

Neil Scott, Principal