If you're feeling a bit nervous about returning to school next week - you're not alone! We're in this together and will support you!

The extended absence from school due to the Level 4 lockdown was thrown upon us suddenly and under unique circumstances. If you're feeling a bit anxious about returning to school after this unusual break you are not the only one! It is completely normal to feel this way but there are ways we can support each other as we head back towards 'normal' school life. 

You will see from Mr Wilson's message that both Monday and Tuesday will begin with an extended tutor period. This is so that tutors have time to catch up with students, welcome them back to school and gauge how everyone is doing. Likewise, on Monday we have adapted the timetable so that seniors will see all of their subject teachers on this first day. The intention here again is to focus on reconnecting. Tutors will spend time allowing students the chance to share any concerns, answering questions and ensuring everybody knows how they could access further support should they need it. 

There are some useful apps and online tools which could be helpful in supporting young people to track and improve their health and wellbeing. Two of these are listed below and tutors will share others in class this week.

https://www.melonhealth.com/ (an app is also available)

mindshift app (available from app store and google play)

Pastoral care is a priority at Nayland College and students who are worried or not coping can access a range of support. Subject and tutor teachers, house deans, school guidance counsellors, support staff and the senior leadership team are all available and committed to ensuring a safe and smooth return to school. 

We recognise that remote learning has been challenging for some for a range of reasons. Over the coming weeks subject teachers and house tutors will focus on encouraging students to reconnect with their learning. We will spend time setting goals and working out strategies to achieve them. We will encourage students to adopt a growth mindset, to build resilience and recognise that, wherever they are up to now, they can achieve with effort. I would like to echo Mr Olley's message from last week that for senior students now is not a time to give up and leave school under the impression that it's all 'too hard'. Let's work together to look after each other and achieve success. 

Nā tō rourou, nā taku rourou, ka ora ai te iwi.

With my food basket and your food basket, the people will thrive.