Sport
16 September, 2021
Students return to class
STUDENTS from across the region returned to school this week under revised COVID-19 lockdowns allowing for a flexible return.
STUDENTS from across the region returned to school this week under revised COVID-19 lockdowns allowing for a flexible return.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced last week regional schools would reopen to Prep to Grade 2 and Year 12 students following the closure of schools in response to the latest COVID-19 outbreak in early August.
All other year levels have continued remote learning.
Mortlake College principal Sean Fitzpatrick said he was pleased to have some of the students returning.
“For our Year P-2 and Year 12 students, these times and years in their schooling are very important to their rite of passage in and through school,” he said.
“For all our Year 3-11 students who will be continuing on with remote and flexible learning for the remainder of term three, my message is to keep hanging in there.
“We’re looking forward to a return to onsite learning for you in term four.”
Mr Fitzpatrick said the effort of families and staff during the height of restrictions was appreciated.
“Thank you for your continued collective efforts in supporting our students,” he said.
St Thomas’ Primary School principal Matthew Uzkuraitis said it was exciting to have some students return to classrooms.
“Our returning students were full of excitement and couldn’t wait to be back in the classroom with their friends,” he said.
“We also acknowledge our Grade 3-6 students who have, and continue to, do an amazing job with their remote learning and our wonderful families who have been ever so supportive.
“We can’t wait until we have everyone back on-site soon.”
Noorat Primary School principal Ilona Watkins said the past 18 months had been extremely challenging for everyone.
“It was wonderful to have our youngest students back on site and reconnecting with their peers,” she said.
“We have been working to support our children and their families by showing empathy and acceptance – everyone has done and is doing the best they possibly can.
“We understand the challenges of working from home while supporting your children – it’s tough and not something our parents signed up for. Our parents have really stepped up to help and support their children.
“We are incredibly proud of how our community came together to support each other, and the resilience shown has been tremendous.”
Ms Watkins said there was many different learning opportunities at home but students saw the most benefit from on-site learning.
“We know most children learn best when they are at school and able to connect with their friends,” she said.
“We look forward to the upcoming announcements so we know when we can again open our doors to our older students and return to a sense of normalcy with all children back on-site.”
St Colman’s Primary School principal Tim Bourke said the school was hoping to give the students a fun final week of term.
“We are delighted to have a large number of our students back on-site,” he said.
“This week we are having a screen free week with a fun theme each day.
“Tuesday was crazy hair day, Wednesday was whacky Wednesday with art and PE, Thursday was garden day with items brought to school from the garden and Friday will be footy colours day.
“Our senior students are joining in the fun from home while they continue remote learning.”
Panmure Primary School students were rapt with their return to the classroom, enjoying the opportunity to spend some time with their peers.
“I love being back at school. I like seeing everyone and I love doing my work and drawing,” Tommy G said.
“I like seeing my best friend Tommy and everyone else. I was happy to see my ‘buddy’ Eliza. I’m enjoying listening to stories and painting,” Kyle said.
“I liked seeing all my friends. Getting back to learning was good. I like being able to play on all the equipment,” Tommy S said.
