Well done on the first week of online learning (if we count two days last term and three this week!).

It has been very intense for both students and teachers but this is also because of the short week and next week should be more new-normal.

Students are well in the mode of checking their emails and Google Classrooms to get the links to their Zoom meetings. It is important for the students to keep regular contact with their teachers and to ask for help if they need it. Teachers are endeavouring to reply to emails within 24 hours but please be patient as many of them are teaching their own children simultaneously!

Students should keep learning and assessments going and write deadlines on the calendar and be organised as they ordinarily would. In Zoom classes it is important to be focused as this is the guide to other independent study and work. Students should be following and keeping in their normal timetable and be on time, dressed, ready to learn and respectful in the Zoom classes they have. Breaks from screens and learning are also important, especially getting out in the sunshine when it happens.

We are aware that there has been a lot of homework set and many Zoom classes this week. We anticipate that this will even out when we get into a full ‘normal’ week next week. Thanks to parents and caregivers for all their support in sharing the family wifi and laptops, quiet spaces and chasing and checking on students’ progress. We are very confident that NCEA learning and progress is still taking place in the online environment but do not hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns. We have become very creative in how we can support students’ learning online!

The next few weeks will see further developments in the way in which we are learning and we will keep you up to date with this as it evolves. We are grateful for all of our teachers who are so well placed in the digital environment and cope amazing well with the changing landscape that is upon us. Stay well and fingers crossed for a transition to Alert Level 3 soon!