Staff reflect on planning in a COVID-19 world
In our first meeting for Term 2, Seacliff Primary staff discussed and reflected on their experiences over the last 7 weeks; how the events of COVID-19 had impacted them at a personal and professional level.
Our specific focus was on the impact of providing continuity of learning programmes for students in both face-to-face and online ‘Learning at Home’. It was a time where we responded rapidly to ever-changing conditions. We also needed to develop our understanding and use of information technology as the delivery platform to commence the planning and provision for online/home learning for students and their families.
Whilst there was a common acknowledgement and acceptance of a range of emotions and challenges, some valuable and exciting successes emerged.
‘Struggle is a prelude to success’- unknown
In summary, staff communicated;
• an awareness of a strong sense of optimism and resilience in our students and families
• we saw students demonstrating increased perseverance, independence and engagement
• there was embracing of new learning platforms and software across a full range of curriculum areas including PE, Performing Arts and Japanese i.e. MS Teams, Education Perfect, Zoom and Seesaw
• on returning to school, students demonstrating joy and relief to continue with their learning and to be back with their friends and teachers
• overwhelmingly positive feedback from the parent/school community towards all staff, expressing their support, appreciation and gratitude for their consistency in communication, resilience, effort and professionalism
• learning programmes were in place for online/at home late Term 1 ready to commence Term 2
• a wealth of ICT expertise amongst some staff who willingly shared their expertise & resources
• the growth in collegiate support to share planning and create workable timetables
• plans are in place to continue to use and integrate new technologies and innovations into learning programmes and linking communication across the school and the wider community
• that Specialist teachers in particular, are valuing the new modes of communication that have increased communication with students, teachers, parents/families and can be maintained and utilised in the future.
So, while the last 7 weeks haven’t been easy (for anyone) we were certainly able to identify a range of positive benefits to us as educators that have come as a response to the current crisis.
