A Reflection on the Term that Was

I would like to congratulate everyone on working through such a tricky term with positivity and good cheer.  It seems an eternity ago that we began the term with a school closure for a staff Professional Development day.  Who was to predict the “School Closure” would be the theme of the term. I was buoyed by the thought of a full term and our school calendar was full of fun and exciting activities.

By the end of that first week we were in Lockdown 5. It lasted eight school days and by Week 3 we were back at school albeit with two staff rooms and limited visitors. By the end of Week 4 we were back in Lockdown (that makes 6), this time for only 4 days…  We were beginning to see the pattern of the Premier's Thursday announcements. 

Emerging from Lockdown 6 saw a flurry of activity, Cudgee Wildlife Park, 100 Days of School, half of the Foundation 2022 interviews, Pizza Day, Confirmation and some interschool sport.   When we left school at the end of Week 6 after a good run of nine straight days we knew something was in the air and by Saturday morning Lockdown 7 was upon us.  Lockdown 7 lasted 14 school days and included Book Week, Fathers’ Day and Arts’ Week. 

By the end of Week 9 we had all of the F-Year 2s back and Years 3-6 operating in a hybrid model. I am not going to predict what this week will bring, let alone next term.

In all we have had 3 lockdowns this term, 24 school days of remote learning for F-2 and it will be 30 days for Years 3-6.

The children have been amazing during this upheaval. They have shown resilience and flexibility.  As the term ends it is timely for them to reflect on their term, their learning and their socialisation.

You might like to ask your children:

• What has gone well for you?
• What have you done when you have been stuck?
• Who helps you at school, at home, in the yard?
• What do you do to be a good friend?
• Who else needs a good friend?
• Who is there to help you?

Thanks All Staff

It is not only the children who have been flexible and resilient. Last week I visited a classroom where a teacher was operating a Kohoot online quiz with 12 children in front of her and another 13 children in from their homes. This is just one of the many examples of innovation from our wonderful teachers. I would also like to recognise our Learning Support Officers and Administration and Maintenance staff whose roles have grown and evolved over the lockdowns.  I am sure that you join with me in wishing them all a very restful, well earned holiday.

School Arrival

A reminder that the school gates open for students at 8:30am. Many children are arriving prior to 8:30am.  At this stage we do not provide before school care. Please do not drop children off or allow them to walk or ride before 8:30am. 

Loop Drop Off, Left Hand Side

Please ensure that your children exit your car on the left hand side. This might include negotiating a toddler or baby seat but it is important for their safety.

NAPLAN

NAPLAN results were mailed to families last week.  NAPLAN tests are one aspect of each school’s assessment and reporting process, and do not replace the extensive, ongoing assessments made by teachers about each student’s performance.

Your child’s teacher will have the best insight into your child’s educational progress. Along with other school assessment reports, NAPLAN reports can be used to discuss your child’s strengths and areas for improvement with their teacher. I would like to congratulate the students on their achievements.