BMG 2020 Grammarian Issue 2

7 Teachers took creative advantage of home learning by modifying their programs. Students and staff learnt new ways to work together while apart. English classes baked Anzac Biscuits, Maths classes calculated household energy use, while in Science, students were identifying and classifying species of trees around their own homes. During remote learning, students had to take greater responsibility for their own learning. With a house full of distractions for the students, it was remarkable that many staff reported 100% attendance in their classes. The resilience and adaptability of the students is to be commended. They have acquired key life skills that will enhance their ability to tackle future challenges with confidence and flourish in life. The school’s welfare team was very active in gaining feedback from students and staff through regular wellbeing surveys. Staff facilitated a range of co-curricular programs to engage and maintain a sense of connection to the school community. Students and staff participated in Lego challenges, online cake decorating classes, virtual museum tours, recipe sharing and writing competitions. Late Term 2 saw the staged return to onsite learning for students. This transition brought, once again, the sights and sounds of students playing together in the schoolyard. The school’s Art Department decorated the ‘Grandpa Tree’ with messages from junior students telling us what they enjoyed most about their return to school. The vast majority of these messages referred to seeing their friends. Time after time, staff witnessed the pure joy on students’ faces as they met up with friends that they had not seen for months. This really encapsulated what is most important in life and what a safe, enjoyable and friendly place the school is. Throughout this uncertain time, it has highlighted how fortunateweare tohaveawell-informedandcompassionate Principal who has made the welfare of students and staff the main priority in the decision-making process. Congratulations to all students, staff and parents for the exceptional way you supported and encouraged each other during the uncertain and complex time. There will be more challenges to come, however, these will be further opportunities to learn, support and grow together. Mr Leigh Park Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching