In spite of the fact that we are in challenging times for education, there is much positivity throughout the Early Years regarding the new skills and proficiencies we are all developing at this time. This week, all Early Years students should have begun working through the Home Resource Kits that have been provided. It is important to note that remote learning will look different for Term 2 as we progress to more use of digital platforms, primarily email and our school wide learning management system called 'Canvas'. Whilst those of you with children in older year levels will already be familiar with Canvas, it is a new learning journey for many of us!  

Whilst we have used Class Dojo extensively in the past, we are only able to use this as a quick messaging platform due to concerns regarding data breaches as the storage system is offshore. This has necessitated the fast tracking of our implementation of Canvas and increased use of email. Please be sure to keep a close eye on emails as this will be a primary mode of correspondence regarding your student's learning, including details of how and when to log on to the various platforms used. These emails have begun this week and you will receive several over the next few days, and weekly telephone check-ins will also be occurring.  

Teachers will be in regular contact to ensure our students remain connected and well supported through this period. We are endeavouring to provide a variety of opportunities to bring students 'together' virtually as small groups and as a class, using Zoom. Being new territory for us all, it is likely that we will have some teething problems and we ask for your patience if things do not go as smoothly as anticipated on our first attempts as we navigate this new normal. It is new for all of us. The key to our success will be in the strength of our communication. If at any time you are unsure, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher, preferably by email in the first instance. 

Next week our teachers will be offline as we move into the holiday period, just as they would in any normal situation. There is no expectation for your child to be engaging in any schoolwork during this period and teachers will not be providing any learning for this time. Our teachers also need a break and I have specifically requested that they do take time out to care for themselves and their families. As such I kindly ask that you do not email them during the break period to request work to be made available.