A Different Start

A different Start Year 4 student Jessica is ready to start at Korowa.

By Mandy Andrews Director of Enrolments

When Jessica Williams and her parents decided to enrol at Korowa, she never imagined she would be starting at a new school during a global pandemic. Jessica is the newest member of Year 4. What brought the Williams family to Korowa was in fact their older daughter, Chantelle, who joins us in 2021 in Year 7. After a visit to Korowa to watch House Chorals, Chantelle convinced Mum, Michelle, and Dad, Shaun, that Korowa was for her. Little did she know that younger sister Jess would get there first! The first day of school is nerve-racking for any nineyear-old, but when it takes place on a screen in a virtual classroom, you never know what will happen. Armed with an iPad, a list of classmates’ names and a whole lot of courage, Jessica jumped in feet first. When learning that the School would be switching to Distance Learning mode, the Williams family had no hesitation. They knew that Jess’s resilience would hold her in good stead; she had participated in the Try Us for a Day Program where she met the other girls in the class, and was ready for any challenge. Jess says Mrs Leahy, her class teacher, is her favourite ever. In true Korowa style, there has been support from all parts of the community, with parents in Year 4 reaching out to the Williams family, Mrs Huntington calling to offer reassurance regarding French class, and our Lead Librarian, Mrs Elliott delivering a book to her home. Jess says working on the iPad was a new experience and “a little weird – and typing was a challenge”. Jess’s favourite classes during Distance Learning were the craft and Lego challenges. Anything to do with STEAM had her full attention. Shaun was impressed with the Distance Learning Program and enjoyed seeing the teachers at work. It was also heartening to see that the teachers were in their own homes with their own families too. Chantelle shares how much she is looking forward to joining Korowa next year. Robotics, Debating and of course, House Chorals are all on her list! So how did Jess go with finally getting into the classroom, with no parents onsite on her first day at school? “Well, for the first two days I just followed people into the school and on the third day I went by myself. I actually like school here. It’s fun and I feel happy and joyful.”