From the Head of Primary 23.05.2020

According to the World Economic Forum, 1.38 billion students across the world are currently accessing remote learning. As we head into the half term break I have been reflecting on the affect that remote learning has had on our Primary students and staff. Nothing can replace the experience of coming into school every day and interacting with friends and peers but as a glass half full rather than half empty kind of person I have been discussing the benefits of home learning with colleagues this week and compiled this list.

Teachers have been able to get to know their pupils in their home environment. We have enjoyed show and tell video calls, got to know siblings and regularly say hi to family pets.

We have been invited into each other’s homes via video calls and as a result of this relationships have grown and conversations have developed.

Children have become more independent in their learning and are better equipped to problem solve and find solutions.

We have all developed our resilience and problem solving skills. Let’s not forget that it took a while to get into the home learning routine and back in March working and learning from home presented itself as a huge challenge but we have overcome and now have established rules and routines to help us manage our day.

We are united as a remote learning community because we understand that we all have good and bad days and are doing the very best that we can to support each other.

Parents have been able to become more involved in their child’s education. Although I am sure this has been frustrating at times and I have certainly heard reports of tears and tantrums, parents now have a better understanding of how their children learn and what motivates their learning.

Children have been teaching their parents. Those Year 6 algebraic calculations are tricky!

Wishing you all a happy half term.

Mrs Joanne Smith

Head of Primary