It is hard to believe that we already more than half way through Term 3 of 2021. Whilst it has not been the most ideal term and we find ourselves in an extended lockdown, we need to recognise our suffering and distress due to COVID but refuse to allow those thoughts to overwhelm and destroy our hope and optimism.

As a staff, we are constantly having conversations about how students, families and staff are coping with the lockdown and how we can all support each other. Our staff continue to take into account the social, emotional, wellbeing and academic needs of our students.

It is a challenging time as we face ongoing separation from our loved ones, sport, hobbies, outings, stress about health and safety, uncertainty about the future, etc. Days can blur into nights, especially when our time outside is restricted. Therefore, it is really helpful for our students to maintain a routine during this time. I have included some visuals on ways students may maintain routine and motivation during lockdown.

We also continue to consider how best to support our parents and carers who are struggling with the combined efforts of working and also supporting their kids to access learning from home.

Headspace have created a short video with some tips and strategies for Victorian parents and carers during lockdown.

Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds.

Headspace has devised a 3-step process to help parents support their child: NIP

• Notice
• Inquire
• Provide

Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s homeroom teacher or Year Level Coordinator if you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, remote learning engagement issues or academic progress.

Stay safe and try to find the positives.