The end of the school year is here and I know it’s become a bit of a cliche, but what a school year it has been.  Yes, it has been challenging and most of us have had many of our plans for 2020 cancelled due COVID.  Despite the many hardships that this year has delivered, it has also brought about some unique learning for our students.

2020 presented almost every child’s dream - not having to go to school.  Like most dreams, the reality turned out to be a little different.  For many students, the experience of ‘not going to school’ helped them learn new things about themselves as a learner and in particular how to be responsible and manage their learning.  For some this highlighted the support they need to be successful as a learner. Children also learned what it's like to have their parents as their teachers and some discovered that their school teachers are not too bad afterall.

During this time students were challenged to work with other family members to complete physical tasks like chipping golf balls into cups after rebounding off two different surfaces, a collective effort to ride around Australia,  reproduce famous works of art with items from around the home and families were asked to identify their “Dis Moments”.  Students produced mini movies and clips about Australian animals or many other areas of learning. One student even sang about the days when she would be able to touch a door knob again. 

But most importantly, 2020 helped students identify how important the social interactions with teachers and friends are in their schooling experience.  Being isolated helped many students to value the simple things in their lives and be more grateful.  

The challenge going forward is, how do we continue to help children to reflect more and value the day to day experiences so that students continue to savour these daily precious moments and cultivate the gift of gratitude.

Finally, I have included links to two documents with tips and ideas regarding Mental Health during the school holidays.  One document has been written for parents and the other is aimed at students in senior primary school.  The Parent guide is definitely worth a read.

FOR PARENTS AND CARERS Wellbeing support for students over school holidays

FOR STUDENTS Wellbeing support over the school holidays

Wishing all families a safe and merry Christmas.  Enjoy the special time with your families over the holidays.

Looking forward to 2021!

Regards

Paul Anderson

Student Wellbeing Leader