Director of Studies 

Remote Learning Term 3

Welcome to our second period of remote learning. For most, the quick transition back into our online learning has been smooth with all classes re-commencing on Wednesday. 

Although this virtual environment is not ideal and can be difficult to navigate, we are collectively supporting our wider community by staying safe at home and strengthening our connected Monivae family online. During this second round at home, reflect on the first remote period – what worked well? What was challenging? What could you do differently this time to make it a better learning experience? These questions are designed for both students and teachers.

An infographic by Lindsay Kuhl shares 7 key points for families supporting remote learning 

Remote Learning Bulletin

The Remote Learning Bulletin published each week during the remote learning period in Term 2 will now be incorporated with the College newsletter.  This will be published each fortnight, commencing on 07/08/20. Families and staff are strongly encouraged to refer to this regular publication for important updates on the Learning & Teaching Program.

Remote Learning Guidelines Updated

Our main priority is to ensure each of our students have the opportunity to access and maintain continuity of their learning while the school closure restrictions are in place. We aim to support students to attain the essential key knowledge, understandings and skills needed to progress their learning towards the next achievement standard.

An updated copy of the Monivae Remote Learning Guidelines is available via PAM SIMON Knowledge Banks/ Remote Learning/ Remote Learning Resources. This document outlines the expectations for the remote period and answers key questions about the online learning program.

Communication is key to support students

We acknowledge the widespread impact this second period of isolation restrictions will have on families and our wider community. We understand student learning will need to be flexible to meet students’ changing needs as we progress through the term.

During this time of social distancing and isolation it is essential that students and families develop open and ongoing communication between home and school. If issues arise or additional support is required during the remote period, students and families are encouraged to contact relevant staff for assistance.

A document listing of key staff contacts, ‘Who do I contact if I have questions or issues?’ can be accessed from SIMON Knowledge Banks/ Remote Learning/ Remote Learning Resources.

Specific queries/issues referring to classes and student work can be emailed directly to the relevant subject teacher in the first instance via the Learning Areas on PAM. Alternatively, the general style for email addresses at Monivae college is <firstinitialsurname>@monivae.vic.edu.au (e.g. ycolquhoun@monivae.vic.edu.au) 

Resources to support families

Managing screen time, learning, health and wellbeing are becoming increasingly important. The Victorian Government has developed resources to support families during this time https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/learning/Pages/home-learning-screentime-wellbeing.aspx#link8

Make a great start each day

During this period of restrictions, working to develop a positive mindset takes routine and practice. 

Get ready like you’re still going to school. Wake up on time each morning, eat a healthy breakfast, and do all the things you normally do before leaving for school. While you don’t have to be in uniform, you do need to be out of your pyjamas!

Students are expected to plan their learning program each day through use of their Student Planner. Students should mark down their classes for the day, video Meets and due dates for tasks. Ideally, students should organise their day in consultation with their caregiver the day before. 

After the school day, make time to practise your usual sport or wellness activity. Spend some time outside if possible.

If the day hasn’t gone so well, talk with a family member. Consider what can be done differently tomorrow and put a plan in place. Identify a teacher you can contact to help you.

Talking about Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The following link published by the Victorian State Government Education & Training, provides Advice for parents, carers and guardians on talking to students about the pandemic https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/Pages/coronavirus-advice-parents.aspx#link32

VCE/VCAL

At the time of writing, the VCAA (Victorian Curriculum & Assessment Authority) have not yet updated their advice to teachers and schools for this second period of remote learning. Any announcements regarding changes will be published to teachers and students as soon as they are available.

Current Guidelines for Monivae Remote Learning – Assessment VCE/VCAL are available via PAM SIMON Knowledge Banks/ Remote Learning/ Remote Learning Resources/ VCE/VCAL.

Internet Issues

At times connectivity can be unpredictable. If a student is unable to access Google Classrooms, please contact reception at Monivae (03) 555 11 200 so an email can be sent to the student’s teachers to let them know.

Students should ensure they have some resources downloaded onto their desktop e.g. a Maths text pdf, a copy of an assignment/task so that some time may still be used productively. Subject teachers can advise students of optional resources to use offline.

Teacher Absences

If a staff member is absent (i.e. not attending to Google Classrooms on a given day)

The following message will appear on SIMON Daily Notices for students/parents, “The following staff are absent ……… work is set in google class room. Attendance will not be marked for these classes today”

Subject Selections (current Year 8-11 students)

An updated program and timeline for 2021 Subject Selections will be published to students next week.

Year 10 into Year 11 Subject Selections

Year 10 in to Year 11 subject selections (VCE or VCAL) are currently underway.

Due to the second period of Remote Learning, students will not be required to obtain teacher recommendation signatures on their forms. Although students are strongly advised to ensure they have discussed their selections with subject teachers and/or specialist staff prior to submitting their selections.

All students must return their completed Subject Selection Planning Form 2021 to the Front Office when school returns onsite in addition to submitting their preferences online via Web Preferences. Students will be emailed instructions on accessing Web Preferences next week.

Subject Selections are due 9am on Monday 7th September, 2020 (Week 9, Term 3).

Only selections submitted on time will be considered in the timetabling of classes and resources. Approvals for late requests/changes for subjects will depend upon availability and selections from the combinations available.

Yvette Colquhoun

Director of Studies