This week marks half way through Term 3. In a ‘normal’ school term we start to see the students fatigue around Week 7. This is when we observe behaviours that we don’t usually see where the children make mistakes, some poor choices and some just find school a little bit more difficult than normal.  This pattern of behaviour is actually quite normal. It tells us that they need a reset in their routines. At school, this would look like us revising and reminding the children about our PB4L rules and expectations and reminding them of some of our routines. It helps to remind us all that routine is important to students and is an integral part of a productive learning environment.

During these past weeks we have had some parents express to us that they are concerned their child might be 'falling behind' with their learning. As mentioned previously, remote learning is very different to face-to-face learning and it is definitely not the preferred mode of learning, for students and teachers alike. Our priority during this time is for everyone's care and well-being, so that engagement in some learning can occur. There may be days when your child is not overly engaged with their learning, and that should not be a cause of worry or stress. Our teachers are constantly monitoring your child's work and making any necessary adjustments to support them. They will know how best to meet their needs when we return to face-to-face learning.

However, reviewing your routines at home as we live through these unusual and challenging times may assist you with your experience with Remote Learning.  

• Discuss your routines with your child - are they working for everyone?
• Anticipate any challenges and plan for them
• Model the behaviour you want your child to learn
• Reinforce your child for the positive behaviours they display

While there is uncertainty as to how long this lockdown will last, please be assured that the school is available to assist in any way that we can.  

Every year since 1945 the CBCA, Children's Book Council of Australia, has brought children and books together across Australia through Book Week.  During this week schools and libraries find opportunities to celebrate  books and particularly Australian authors and illustrators.  All this is done to highlight the importance of reading.  The students, teachers, parents and our entire community highly value the importance of reading and everyone works hard in this area of their learning.  During Book Week next week, the class teachers will provide further opportunities for the students to celebrate reading and books.