Learning & Teaching News

Return to onsite learning

The return of all students to onsite learning, even though staggered, has been wonderful to see. The welcome back of staff and students to our College campuses, along with some easing of lockdown restrictions and the occasional warmer days has all contributed to a significant lift in people’s moods. 

We are aware, however, that it will take some time for students to readjust back to learning in the classroom after two years of a disrupted experience of school.  Teachers have commented that some junior students are appearing somewhat unsettled, and we will need to be patient in instilling those whole school expectations as articulated in our ROCKS – respect, organisation, collaboration, kindness and safety.

Our dedicated staff have been given guidelines to assist the transition of students back into the classroom, however, it is pleasing that many have shared some of the following insights with one another about how to best assist your children as they adjust to the new COVID normal.  Here are some of what teachers are finding helpful:

• Start by asking students what they are looking forward to now that they are back in the classroom.
• Allowing students some time to reconnect with each other and the teachers rather than assigning work right away. I have found that chats around all the things we have been watching/listening to/playing is a great ice breaker. I also talk to them about all the strange and funny things I have seen people doing out on my walks.
• Allow students a level of choice - so much has been out of their control, they respond well to giving them the reigns. Things like ‘would you like to work outside?’ or ‘choose between A and B activity’ are good examples.
• Explaining the different activities that are planned for the lesson, so students know what is happening can give a sense of security (especially if they struggle with a task, they know it’s not forever).
• Reminding students of some practical information such as:

1. Start transitioning back to pre-lockdown routines including decreasing screen time, modifying the wake-up and bedtime hours (set the alarm) and start eating breakfast, lunch and dinner at pre-lockdown times
2. Dust off the school bag and get the books, stationary and lunchbox ready before the day of school. Two-minute noodle lunches are over!
3. Uniform - reminder that students can wear summer or winter uniform and reminding students that the windows will be open so bring a school jacket to wear to keep warm.
4. Allow more time to get ready in the morning of school day
5. Highlight that they will be tired after each school day

• Not expecting them to be keen on discussion, they might need some time to warm up. Traffic lights or other response activities can help them warm up to sharing their learning and ideas.
• Hands-on, concrete activities. As little screen time as possible.
• Give some time today and tomorrow to complete work from remote lessons
• Have a conversation with students about expectations with regards to schoolwork - that there’s not an expectation to catch up on work that they’ve not completed, that they’re coming back and starting fresh.
• Wellbeing first - academics second. Let students know that whilst learning is important, their wellbeing is our first priority. Sometimes they just need to hear it from the horse's mouth :)

Some wise advice from our experienced teachers in assisting your children return to school.  I hope there is something there for you as parents that can help you support your child too.

Examinations

Year 12 exams have begun and our Year 11 students will have a shortened examination period running from Wednesday, 10 November to Friday, 12 November 2021.  Year 10 students will not have end of year examinations.  The thinking behind this decision was to maximise the “in class” learning experiences that students have so significantly been starved of this semester. Nevertheless, we were concerned that our current Year 11 students have some examination experience in preparation for Year 12.  There is enough time next year for our current Year 10 students to experience formal examinations.

In the end, we know that examinations are important but must be put into perspective. A study score does not define your child nor can it sum up their educational experience over their time at St. Peter’s College.  We are so proud of our students who have shown such great resilience and growth during adversity.  They will be stronger because of what they have endured with such dignity.  I leave you with this letter written by a principal to the parents of his or her students that should remind us of what really matters.

David Hansen

Deputy Principal – Learning & Teaching