Dear Parents and Carers,
I hope everyone had the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the lovely early Spring weather this week. Despite the wind, the warmth and sunshine certainly lifted spirits in these challenging times.
Remote Learning and Student Voice
As we heard earlier this week, the current restrictions will remain in place and we will continue with remote learning for the remainder of term 3. While we wait for the release of the return to on-site learning plan expected next week, we continue to focus on providing a meaningful remote learning program with an emphasis on wellbeing as well as ongoing academic growth. Over the course of this and previous lockdowns, the staff at Parkhill PS have continued to evaluate and reflect on their practice. Student feedback has had a significant influence on the evolution of the remote learning program at Parkhill. Teachers have introduced, modified and adapted activities based on the feedback provided through student voice surveys. When students have a voice in their learning, they are more likely to experience self-worth, engagement and purpose in school. Whilst there is no perfect model that caters for the exact needs of every family, we continue to be committed to providing a remote program that is flexible and responsive to the needs and wants of our students.
Wellbeing Fridays
In the last two weeks this term, we will be introducing wellbeing days. Each Friday, teachers will provide a range of fun activities that focus on building physical and mental wellbeing. Participation in activities is encouraged, however students will not be required to upload responses to tasks and teachers will not be providing feedback. The intention is to ease the pressure on everyone at the end of each busy week – students, parents and teachers.
Where’s Polly
During the extended lockdown last year, you might remember the Spoonville phenomena taking off worldwide. This proved to be a great way to connect people through COVID-safe means and built community spirit. Let's remind our kids that they are part of a school community that cares, even when they can’t see their friends. Dress a toy in Parkhill uniform or colours and place it in a window for children to spot on their walks/scoots/runs/rides. For extra entertainment, look out for a Parkhill Wally (a “Polly”) in Parkhill shades of blue!
Many thanks to the Connected School working group for initiating this great idea.
Foundation 2022
It might still seem like a fair way off, but the school is currently planning for the 2022 school year. A lot of time and energy goes into ensuring that staffing, resources and programs are ready for the new year. A reminder to families that have a sibling, friend or neighbour who is wanting to join our 2022 Foundation class next year, to contact the school as soon as possible to organise an enrolment form.
To all our Parkhill dads, I hope you have a great Father’s Day this Sunday.
Take care,
David Wells
Acting Principal
