How time flies! Already we have been back at school face-to-face fulltime for nearly three weeks. Already remote learning seems like a distant memory but it is definitely something that will always be an unusual and interesting part of the year 2020. We do not know what the coming months will bring but the lessons we learnt from COVID19 will resonate for years to come. The resourcefulness of staff to continue to provide quality learning opportunities never ceased to amaze me as they learnt new ways to connect, provide instruction and feedback and build relationships all online. This experience has necessitated that we look at how we use technology and how it complements and builds on all our traditional skills in the classroom. Most obviously it has highlighted that we need to continue to provide technology experiences for our littlest learners and how we can afford to do this. Over the coming months, as we sort out our financial position post-COVID, we will look at providing a viable and sustainable ICT program for all our staff and students.

Whilst on the topic of technology it has also become increasingly apparent that our students need to be very aware of how to be safe on social media and what is appropriate, and what is not, when using ICT. Please ensure that you are aware of what social media contact your child is exposed to and what chat functions they are involved with and how they are communicating with others. Too often messages get misconstrued and our students struggle to interpret the tone and truth behind conversations. Parents are the most important part of educating our students about how to sensibly engage with social messaging and media. Please read carefully all of the information that Mrs Thompson sends out in coming weeks so that you can stay up-to-date with what are current guidelines and safe practises for our students.

The canteen has so far proved to be a viable endeavour and students are growing accustomed to the new routines. A reminder that no cash money is being exchanged at the canteen and all orders must be online to ensure the safety of all concerned. If you are unsure of how to order please contact the front office.

We have now successfully navigated the transition to winter uniform. All our students look relatively resplendent in their uniform. We will continue to promote that the students wear the uniform correctly and with pride. The uniform pool has most items in stock but if you have old uniform items that you no longer need and could go to a good home please send them to school. We are especially in need of second hand ties.

As we become reaccustomed to being all together again it is more important than ever that we remember to be kind. Kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give and it never goes out of style. We insist that our students are kind to each other and we hope that if they can be anything then let them be kind!

Nicky Trinder

Principal