By Mitchell Clarke
The period of remote learning is creating stronger connections among the St Patrick’s Primary School community.
Staff and students at the Pakenham school have adapted well to the online learning shift, and despite the uncertainty and disruption, a number of positives have been identified.
The connection between teachers and parents has been strengthened, according to Year 6 teacher Lauren Rietschel.
Ms Rietschel has been in touch with parents each week during the remote learning period, which is something that isn’t usually possible during any regular school week.
“It’s been really great to be able to build those relationships, and check-in with each other,” she explained.
“The students have adapted so well. They understand what’s going on, and that we need to keep everyone safe.”
Year 6 student and school captain, Vaughan Gridley, has also been able to search for the positives throughout the experience.
He said he’d never imagined that he would lead the school as captain during a global pandemic.
“I think remote learning has been an education for students and teachers alike. I’m grateful that we learnt how to use the technology at school before all this started, because now accessing it at home is easy,” he said.
“I look forward to our weekly Google Meets and the chance to have some sort of social interaction with one another.”
St Patrick’s Primary School principal Simon Dell’Oro said it was heartening to watch the school community come together to support each other and make the most of remote learning.
“I thank our staff, students and families for the way they have adapted to the changes that have been imposed on them this year,” he said.
“I’m so impressed by the resilience and responsibility they have shown. Particularly in the older children, we have seen them blossom into independent and self-motivated learners who are able to seek help when they need it. These are really valuable life-skills.”
