School may look different this term but Sacred Heart College at Kyneton is encouraging staff and students to inject fun into their new online learning experience.
Principal Dr Darren Egberts said staff had worked hard over the past four to six weeks to prepare for remote schooling from home amid state-wide coronavirus precautions.
“A variety of electronic platforms will be used to support this new learning environment, some of which will be subject-specific,” Dr Egberts said.
“We have put in place a range of wellbeing options for students to support them in these very challenging times including daily and weekly video conferences with their homeroom teachers and class.
“Sacred Heart College is also encouraging students and staff to think about activities that will add life and humour to the world of remote learning. We look forward to a virtual talent quest, quizzes, funny photos and other activities to brighten the day.”
While there will be some changes to the way VCE is delivered and new timetables are introduced across the state, many students remain positive about their final year at the college.
Working to complete his final year of VCE, Jonathon Knox Dettmann said he was feeling optimistic about making efficient use of his class and study time with some “little stresses” like travel removed from his routine.
“One of the biggest differences of having to complete year 12 VCE via online schooling is now students have far more choices about how and when we study,” Jonathon said.
“At the moment I am feeling really positive about this, although the main struggle I have found is staying connected and social with my friends… Obviously it’s a new and different form of schooling for most of us so it will take some getting used to.”
Jonathon has found ways to connect with friends through online gaming and has created a daily workout and meditation. As the student wellbeing captain he has also created and shared an online video about the support available to students.
Applied Learning captain Jessica Barron has a similar approach to her year 12 VCAL study.
She said maintaining a study routine with a good diet and exercise would help her stay focused while reaching out to friends and family would provide strong emotional support.
“Staying positive is crucial in this time and I do that by talking to my friends and checking in on them regularly to see how everyone is coping. Talking to your friends and family can really help,” Jessica said.
Online education will continue throughout term two and the state government will revise the approach closer to term three.
