In our third week of Home Learning, our focus is on providing quality teaching and learning, a continuation of classwork and as much as possible, providing a semblance of routine and order. We are only too aware of the impact that lockdown may have on our children's progress and achievement, but research shows that we should remain optimistic.

While children are engaged in home learning, it is easy to overlook the life skills that our children are being taught. Learning is not just academic; it is about nurturing the whole child, making sure that they have the skills, knowledge and dispositions to thrive in the future, not only at school but in wider society.

A poem, titled What If Instead Of Behind, These Kids Are Ahead?, was published on a blog by American mother of two Jaime Ragsdale. It beautifully sums up the dispositions and skills we can forget we are teaching our children just by being at home.

So as we accept we 'may be here for a while', I encourage you to think about the lessons you are teaching your children at home. We will, of course, remain stoic in our delivery of learning, but pause and consider the amazing lessons you are teaching in your bubble. These skills will shape your children as learners and help put them in a positive mindset when they return to school.

One of the strengths of Stanley Bay is our home/school partnerships. With our team of incredible teachers and parents working collaboratively to deliver learning, our children are in safe hands. 

Welcome to Student Teachers 

This week we welcomed a few new faces have joined our team. Six student teachers from Auckland University of Technology and Massey University will be completing their practicum placements with us over the next few months. 

• Room 7 - Ian Eakin 
• Room 11 - Lauren Campbell  
• Room 9 - Suzanne Stickney  
  
• Room 10 - Adam Brannigan  
• Room 5 - Victoria Lee 
• Room 4 - Alexandra Courtney 

The student teachers will be joining classes for online lessons and working closely with teachers to learn the ropes. If you see them online, please feel free to introduce yourselves. 

Parent Consultation Survey 

As part of our planning process this year we'd like to hear your feedback on what's going well at school and what you feel could be improved. We appreciate that the timing isn't ideal as we all juggle work and home-learning at Level 4, but your input is vital to ensure that the school meets the specific needs of our community. 

Please note that this survey is about how the school delivers in 'normal' times, not about home learning provision.

Thank you in advance for your time in completing the survey, your responses are anonymous.

Take the survey now
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Thank you for your continued support and remember we are only an email away to offer support and guidance as we navigate Level 4. 

Stay safe in your bubbles

Ngā mihi nui 

Lucy Naylor
Tumuaki/Principal