While it has been a long and extraordinary term, it is hard to believe we are at the end of Term 2. Throughout the term, we saw the world change, and the girls will remember its impact on them for a very long time to come.

We all discovered that when we have to, we are capable of doing much more than we initially thought. The staff learnt to deliver lessons online and became adept at using MS Teams. During Learning@Home, the girls discovered that they are stronger and more robust in meeting the challenges of independent learning, that patience and persistence are often needed to achieve goals, that they enjoy using technology, and that they are grateful for their friendships.

On their return to School, the younger girls now show determination to carry their bags up the drive way by themselves and all girls have adapted quickly to the health measures put in place including the 40-minute morning teas and lunch breaks introduced. They continued to enjoy using their devices at School (usually only a few minutes per lesson when used), and they also found they had developed new skills and qualities they could now apply daily.

Many parents have expressed that they enjoy the drop-off and pick up arrangements, and are happy the girls are back at School in the care of their teachers.

I congratulate our Captains in the Junior School who have been presenting each fortnight to their Junior cohort. They have demonstrated commitment to the role as well as initiative, time management and organisation. With a desire to offer a mutual time for the girls to come together, even if it was virtually, we are proud of them.

Next Term

While devices have been going home with the students, we would like all devices to remain at School during the break so they can be refreshed and updated by the IT Department.

On commencing Term 3, we will continue with the staggered starts, socially distance desks in the classrooms as well as continue temperature checks for the first few weeks. We will then ease these restrictions in line with advice from the Victorian Government. We encourage parents to ensure girls arrive during the temperature check times to ensure morning arrivals run smoothly.

Our assemblies will be ‘live streamed’ to classrooms in real time next term, and once we are able to have everyone together, assemblies will once again be held in the auditorium.

Parent-Teacher interviews will be held virtually using MS teams. More information will be provided early next term.

I am sure you will join me in congratulating our students and teaching staff for their outstanding and positive approach to online learning during this challenging time. I acknowledge the willingness of our young learners to embrace all aspects of their educational programs. I wish all girls and their families a safe, relaxing and well earned holiday.