Online Learning Values

Our expectations of students in a virtual classroom are no different to our expectations of them in a physical classroom. It is vital that students demonstrate respect, responsibility, integrity and compassion online, at home and at school.

Parents and carers are partners in student learning in a unique way during remote learning. For that reason, you may find it useful to discuss and reinforce our four school values as they apply to online learning.

The Value of Responsibility

Written by Suzanne Mann, Parent of Year 8 Student

All of the current events really have made me focus more on values like responsibility.

It has led me to question in myself, those around me and even our leaders, where different responsibilities lie. Am I and are we, accountable where necessary and staying authentic and truthful in our relationships? This is not necessarily an easy question to answer.

My hope is that these definitions start a conversation both internally and with those around us. I am very aware of the need to explain where our responsibility lies to ourselves and the greater good with my children at the moment. The need to discuss how taking responsibility for our actions can have such a major effect on the lives (and possible) deaths of so many.

Parent Wellbeing

Parenting is hard work. Parenting during remote learning is even harder. The following strategies can help you and your family stay sane while we get through this tough time together.

1) Be realistic

Perfectionism doesn’t make things easier. It’s time to be exceedingly realistic, both at work and as a parent. Avoid burnout by setting realistic expectations and giving yourself grace if you can’t meet them. Practice forgiveness and self-compassion. Remind each other that these are unprecedented times. There’s no playbook for this. Remember you’re doing your best during a very difficult time. Cut yourself some slack.

2) Prioritise healthy choices

The colder weather and ongoing stress we’re all experiencing right now can make it easy to slip into habits that feel good in the moment but can be detrimental in the long term. Make sure you’re eating properly, try to get enough sleep, and create a routine that includes physical activity. Be thoughtful and intentional about how you’re treating yourself and your body. Small changes like making time to take a walk, doing a short exercise routine, or choosing to go to bed a little earlier than usual can reduce stress and help you feel more relaxed and resilient.

3) Set boundaries

Anxiety is everywhere. With so much worry and uncertainty around it can be easy to absorb fears and concerns without even realising it. Take a break from the constant news cycle and your devices. Schedule time for work/jobs, time for family, time for others and ensure you are getting some time alone each day – even if it’s just intentionally enjoying a quick shower.

4) Connect with things that bring you joy

Finding time to get back in touch with hobbies or activities you enjoy or making the choice to learn a new skill can be a great way to practice self-care. Maybe there’s a project that you’ve wanted to complete or try. If young children at home make solo activities unrealistic, seek out activities you can enjoy together, like baking bread, making art or throwing a ball.

Parenting Resources...

• https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/looking-after-yourself/parenting/looking-after-yourself
• https://childmind.org/article/self-care-in-the-time-of-coronavirus/
• https://www.maggiedent.com/?category_name=self-care-parents&blog-post-type=article

Seventh-Day Adventist Schools (Greater Sydney) Scholarship Program

REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

For further information and access to the Application Form please visit this link.

Calendar of Upcoming School Events

You can access the list of upcoming School events via the link below. The School Calendar is also available under the Parent Information tab on the School website.

Term Dates for 2021

Please click on the link below to view the school term dates and public holiday information for 2021.

School News - Years P to 6

Primary School Athletics Carnival - Thursday 5th August 2021

On Thursday 5th August we are scheduled to have our Primary Athletics Carnival at Bannockburn Oval. At this stage we are waiting for confirmation from the NSW government in regards to future COVID guidelines. Once these guidelines have been revealed, further communications will be sent out. Thank you to all the parents who have indicated that they are willing to help on the day.

School News - Years 7 to 12

Year 12 - Industrial Technology (Wood) Major Works

Year 12 Industrial Technology had the privilege of coming into the school workshop for the first week of the school holidays, prior to the Greater Sydney lockdown, and what a blessing it was to have such time available to the students to spend many hours, averaging 7am – 4pm most days, working on their projects to complete their HSC. We are nearing the due date of project completion, August 5, so it is a sprint to the finish line for our Year 12's. We are very blessed to have the ability to still provisionally access the workshop and provide time for the HSC students completing their projects in a COVID safe manner, together we will get there and I’m sure these students cannot wait to show off their finished project once completed. Keep them in your thoughts as they journey through these latter stages of Yr 12.

The major work consists of a Major Project, and an accompanying Project Portfolio. Student Names and projects are listed below:

• James B – Electric Guitar
• William C – Draftsman’s Table
• Mason J – Hall Table
• Ethan M – Office Desk
• Christian J – Electric Guitar
• Thomas M – Squatters Chair

Mr Gates