Senior News
Sarah Whitwam
Senior News
Sarah Whitwam
Well, we are all back unscathed and ignoring the sting of sanitiser on dry hands and the jarring effect of proximity without contact. We are incredibly proud of how well many of the students sustained their focus through the duration of time off campus and how their stamina is keeping them going now, through one of the longest and most demanding terms of their school life to date.
While still not wholly in a position to reflect on the entire year so far, as the cognitive load of all that is behind us and what is ahead impacts the clarity that reflection can bring, I will instead comment on some things I have observed.
The resilience and good humour of our students upon their return to school has brought with it a positive feeling of community.
The routine of cleaning the tables at the beginning of each class has the effect of noticing and committing to our physical environment, and I like to think, just maybe, is a demonstration of altruism, considering not just ourselves but others in our space.
Vitamin D makes a difference to mood – with senior students outside during breaks there is a tangible brightness and energy that space and fresh air can bring.
The Study Centre has remained a place for study which creates a positive environment for students to focus on their learning, in a quiet and clean place without distraction.
I would like to acknowledge the consistent messages from the Student Leadership Team, Narelle, Lucy-Belle, Joseph and Chelsea, throughout remote learning. They started every day with a cheery message to keep everyone’s spirits up when things were feeling very strange. I would also like to thank the sports captains Blake, Charlotte, Andy, Max and everyone else that contributed, they certainly made me smile and happy to be part of the Maffra School Community.
Holiday Study Sessions
Check Compass for links to a variety of holiday study programs (free and various costs associated)
Study programs can make a difference to stress levels by;
SAC Reminder:
Homework Reminder
Simply Make a Start
Homework is not instead of leisure time it is as well as a balanced lifestyle and will set you up for success in VCE and create good habits of organisation and planning beyond school.
VCAL students have been hard hit during remote learning. They have had significant adjustments to make with work placement, Tafe studies and the VCAL program. Many are still in limbo with work placement as restrictions are hindering some of the vocational areas they are working in.
On an impressive note: many students demonstrated sound work ethic during remote learning and persevered while learning many different types of video conferencing and online platforms to continue their work.
They have certainly come back to school ready to work hard to complete their outcomes and planning has begun on projects for the community, for example a mural and outdoor recreational space in the school grounds.
We are optimistic work placement will go ahead for all students next term and request that students provide details for arrangements as soon as possible so we can organise insurance coverage. If a student is struggling to find a placement, let us know.
VCAL and the Senior team are seeking old outdoor furniture donations to be upcycled for school use.