In response to the increasingly evolving Covid-19 situation, the Education Department has called a week of student free days in Week 11 from 6th to 9th April, 2020. At this stage, POSCH will be available for working parents should you need children cared for. Hazel has re-adapted her program to ensure all children attending POSCH will have a range of social distancing fun!

Teachers in Week 11 will be on site and re-imagining ways to deliver the Australian Curriculum. In just 4 days, our teachers will band together to create a model of teaching that will suit our school community. We will see an adaptation from face-to-face teaching to include online learning. Teachers have already gone out of their way to develop learning packs for students who have begun their learning journey from home. Teachers will now learn to deliver individual lessons and units of learning with technology. What this looks like exactly, is currently unknown. What I do know, is that our teachers and SSOs will rise to the challenge to ensure learning continuity for every child.  

The teachers and SSOs at Pimpala have amazing practices. One of the things that the Covid-19 situation has provided us, is an opportunity to demonstrate what a teacher does that makes a difference in the lives of children and young people. I am very excited to share the practice of our teachers into students’ homes. Parents will have the opportunity to observe lessons and see exactly how our teachers skilfully change tack based on student responses to ensure all students understand skills and concepts. Parents will be able to share the pride that teachers have when children make a learning breakthrough.

Moving into the technology age will be a challenge for some. We will need to embrace technology. I am sure some people will find this uncomfortable. What our students could tell you though, true learning only happens when you feel uncomfortable and are seriously challenged. We have recently surveyed all families at Pimpala regarding their ability to access online learning and appreciate your prompt response in order to for us to plan accordingly.

As we come to terms with coping with a global event that has had an impact on homes in our community, it is important that we look after everybody’s mental health. Beyond Blue have resources to support adults, children and teenagers who are struggling to adjust to the sudden changes in our lives. If you or someone you know is struggling to adjust to the sudden change, please visit Beyond Blue or similar organisations.

I wish you and your family a safe school holiday. I urge you to spend quality time with your family and to make positive memories. I personally look forward to a game of Monopoly with my children that will last several days. This time, I hope to win! I hope you are able to find activities that are helpful to your wellbeing while keeping you and your loved ones safe.

Richard Kemp

Acting Principal