Principal Report

Principal Message Week 7 Term 2

I don’t think any of us were expecting to be remote learning again but here we are. I think after last year we are perhaps less daunted by the process but none the less it is still a challenging time for us all.

I would like to start by thanking the staff for the amazing effort that has gone into preparing for Remote Learning 4.0. This time around we are all, I think, less apprehensive and we have been able to put in place many of the learnings from last year and the short lockdown in term one this year. 

I am confident that we will be able to continue to deliver a high-quality and differentiated program to all our children during this time. Throughout the week there are many more opportunities for children to participate in smaller targeted groups and for more contact between school and home. We acknowledge the significant role you play in your child’s education, and we have learnt through past experience that your partnership has never been more vital.

Without a doubt, it is a very difficult time for everyone and the challenges of working from home whilst supporting your child/children inevitably places a great deal of stress on families. All throughout last year, I maintained the view that wellbeing trumps all and I am reiterating this time round. Because there will be days when things just do not go to plan, when motivation is low, when lethargy sets in, and everyone is just over it. Your family’s wellbeing has to come first. Flexibility and adaptability at this time really are key. Decide on what works for you and your family and know that we support you in this. You are doing an extraordinary job and with the support of one another, I am confident we will get through Remote Learning 4.0.

I am always amazed and inspired by the adaptability and resilience that our children show. Within no time they have adjusted to the remote learning space. I know you are there in the background supporting but I am amazed at the ease with which they have settled into their new routine. I am always honoured to be invited to Zoom sessions. Just seeing all those eager faces and hearing their voices makes it clear why as teachers we value relationships so dearly. Our school is a very different place without all the children, it doesn’t have quite the same heart and soul. It is during morning Zoom sessions, even with the initial chaos, you see the impact of having the time to connect and why it is so vital for our children and their wellbeing. Their excitement and joy during these morning sessions really is a delight to see. Further to this what really stands out to me is the way in which the children are engaging with their learning experiences and the smaller group sessions. The technology, whilst not always hassle-free, certainly allows students to communicate their learning and understandings more creatively and with greater agency. We saw it last time and were floored by the way in which children embraced this mode of learning. For some, it was like opening Pandora’s box; providing us with greater insight into each and every child as a learner.

As we head into our second week I would like to thank you for your support and understanding during this very difficult period for all within our community. To our staff and children, I would like to say congratulations on navigating your way through week one and the return to online learning. You have shown great resilience and adaptability. It takes courage and perseverance when it comes to change, and we have all had to adapt to a whole new way of engaging in learning which is by no means a small feat.

This is a time like no other. So, as we push on with Term 2, may we proceed with confidence and courage for whatever lies ahead.

Daniella