Dear Parents,
We have finally arrived at the end of our first term together. As I discussed with the PTA earlier this week, this is now the opportunity to have a complete rest with your families, no waking up and getting your children online, no worries about internet connection or technology, no multiple trips to school for the extracurricular learning.
This situation has been a challenge for children, teachers and parents alike. We have all worked incredibly hard and now we deserve that break. Everyone must be commended for their attitude, resilience and determination to make learning as interactive, accessible and enjoyable as possible. The reports have been read, parent conferences held, and I am sure great learning outcomes to be celebrated.
Now, what to do over the holiday?
If you are anything like me, lots of sleeping and eating. However, with young children this will only last for so long I’m sure. Global Campus (GC) has some amazing activities that contain a short introduction on a topic and then can be completed physically with simple household objects, active and away from the computer. These images, drawings, videos can then be uploaded to GC. (You can see Mr Van Terheyden demonstrate how to make a safe YouTube video at this link) Below are a few of my favourites to explore after clicking this link to the GC homepage.
STEAM – in here you can explore anything, but I think particular good learning experiences can be found in TASKMASTER. There are also great activities under the SOCIAL IMPACT tab, especially exploration of the GLOBAL GOALS.
There are also more specific areas depending on your child’s passions, but I would encourage any budding authors to explore WRITERS CORNER and anyone with a passion for the arts to try PERFORMING ARTS and if you want to keep-fit or relax, please check out WELLBEING.
One of the performing arts activities, in collaboration with Juilliard, is the opportunity for students to take part in the NAE Virtual Young Musician of the Year. Ms Bechara has recorded a video to support the children, you can watch it be clicking here.
‘Christmas Giving’ – It was absolutely amazing to hear that this community charity project driven by our PTA has managed to get promises of gifts for each and every child on their list for the children of Casa da Criança. These presents have been filling our reception area and it makes me really proud to be part of a community with such kind spirit, thank you.
Parent Survey – thank you so much for those who have answered our survey, it has been a positive start with 17% completed to date. Please take the opportunity over the break to add your thoughts and suggestions about the school by clicking on this link. Remember it is available in most languages too.
Important School Secretary information: If you have any official documentation that you require for January then you must submit this request by December 18th. Any submissions after this date will not be attended to by the school secretary until after January 18th.
Finally, just one thing to say, Feliz Natal!
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Warm regards,
Principal Nick West.
