As the new Principal in post since mid May, I have been impressed with how the school has adapted to the current situation. The Leadership Team and teachers are continuing to work very hard to ensure that the quality of education is of a high standard and that students are able to thrive as much as possible; despite the logistical barriers that have been faced, whilst ensuring that Health and Safety is our top priority. Teachers have been the frontline heroes looking after the wellbeing of children, ensuring they were making progress in learning at the same time, whilst adapting to a completely new model of teaching and learning, and very quickly adapting to and embracing technology like never before.
Teachers have had to adapt very quickly to finding different ways of delivering the curriculum to students; not only finding ways to teach the content in interesting and engaging ways; but also to effectively monitor student progress. In some ways this has made teachers more reflective about the way they teach; and how learners learn. Blended learning will continue to be part of the school’s educational offer; where it is beneficial to the students, e.g. Online Learning when there is a ‘Rain Day’ or if a child is ill for a period of time. It will never replace the power of face to face teaching though.
There are many ways that students can improve in STEM subjects. The biggest difference is feeling confident that you can be successful and keep persevering!
It is also having the knowledge about what type of learner you are. I am a kinaesthetic style learner so learn better with ‘hands on’ style resources. Success will come from continuing to understand and practice basic skills; how the different strands of knowledge fit together and then practice applying the knowledge in different contexts and situations. Relating common skills and topics across the STEM subjects will further strengthen a students skills and application.
Parents firstly have to have confidence in the school that they are taking the strictness line in ensuring that all Health and Safety requirements are met. Regular updates and reassurances to parents continue to put minds at rest. Parents also need to know that there are avenues for contact that they can quickly access if they require support and guidance. In my experience parents have been very supportive of Distance Learning; understanding that the circumstances aren’t perfect and that schools are doing their best to ensure that students have access to high quality learning.I believe that many parents having a new found appreciation of the job teachers do.It is important that schools ask parents for regular feedback regarding the provision that students are getting; and use this to enhance and adapt lessons. Online workshops and drop-in sessions are essential to provide parents with the tools and information to support their children with their learning.
It is still the unknown regarding next year. We are continuing to plan for a blended learning model, but hope that we will start to return to some sort of normality come September. We are keen to get back to business as quickly as possible so that we can open up the school completely; and get our students returning to in an exciting programme of practical learning opportunities, group and team work, extra-curricular activities, House events and competitions. Schools have like a pressure cooker ready to explode back to life when restrictions are lifted.
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