Education Future — Shepparton News

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATIION FUTURE Celebrating the success of remote education in 2020 and future learning

29

30 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE Lessons learnt from learning at home T

erm two of the 2020 school year is one for the history books.

As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, students were ordered to stay home and remote learning became the new, temporary, way of life.

In these uncertain times, there

have been plenty of lessons to be learnt; but schools, families and students have risen to the challenges and these articles celebrate their successes — from increased communication between school and family and technology upskilling to a focus on wellbeing and newfound independence.

On Monday students will start returning to campuses to a new normal. With new technology, practices and skills, school will never be the same.

These success stories also stand as a timely reminder for families who need to choose where to send their children next year.

This time of year is normally jampacked with open days and information sessions but, like most parts of life, schools have had to adapt to offer virtual tours and other options.

While it may not be business as usual, now is not the time to put off that big decision.

For Wilmot Road Primary School students Domenic, 9, and Charlotte Innocenti, 8, remote schooling did not mean spending a lot more time on their iPads.

Hands-on, not always online A

t Wilmot Road Primary School moving to learning remotely did not necessarily mean moving online.

Assistant principal Sharon Thompson said it was important students were only online for the time they needed to be.

“Screen time isn’t the answer to education,” Mrs Thompson said.

“We really were able to bring authentic learning into the home.”

To help achieve this the teachers put together hard-copy work packs for each student; the first pack was picked up by families at the end of Term 1, and the second was distributed just before the back-to-school order.

EVEN THOUGH THE STUDENTS ARE WORKING ONLINE WE PUT TOGETHER A WORK PACK THAT COMPLEMENTED THE WORK ONLINE BUT WE ALSO SENT HOME THINGS LIKE PE EQUIPMENT — THERE WAS A SKIPPING ROPE AND A TENNIS BALL IN THERE “Even though the students are working online we put together a work pack that complemented the work online but we also sent home things like PE equipment — there was a skipping rope and

— SHARON THOMPSON a tennis ball in there,” she said.

“We sent home lots of books so that the kids could continue with their reading and a little container full of maths equipment like a pack of cards and the dice.”

From physical education challenges to Zumba classes, the school has followed its normal curriculum but has also tailored learning to the situation.

Mrs Thompson said cyberbullying education had also been an important part for learning from home for the e-smart school.

“It was what we would have done if we were at school, but I think it’s even more heightened now with how many people are online,” she said.

“It’s very important that children understand that whilst the internet is a powerful tool it can be also dangerous if not used in the right way.”

Despite moving to an online platform the school had never used before, Mrs Thompson said it had allowed communication to become stronger than ever.

“I think parents have a bit of more of an understanding of how school operates and how to support their children,” she said.

“Being able to showcase some of the kids’ work online with the families is a really good thing. It’s been really good to be able to bring that bond together and I’m hoping that will continue.

“Parents should be really proud of themselves in the way they’ve done things because for a lot of parents it has been really confronting.”

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

31

EDUCATION FUTURE

Platform productive T

he implementation of an innovative school-wide learning platform two years ago has assisted the smooth transition to remote learning for Bourchier Street Primary School families.

Assistant principal Gary D’arma said the platform included each student having their own digital learning portfolio that allowed teachers to post work, and students to share evidence of learning with their parents at home.

“This platform has the ability to push out daily individualised lessons, including instructional videos to all students,” Mr D’arma said.

“The model encourages students to work at a pace that suits them.

“Teachers and parents can provide feedback on all student learning and this can be provided in written, voice or video formats, allowing even our youngest learners to access the feedback.”

With the system already in place, the teaching team worked together to establish a remote learning plan that, while challenging to implement, was designed to ensure continuity of learning.

Devices have become an essential communication tool to connect learners and teachers, with staff hand-delivering many devices to students to ensure learning opportunities were not lost.

Physical education, the arts and Italian lessons have also been

incorporated along with daily challenges so that students spend time away from devices, ensuring a healthy balance.

“Another strategy to increase our engagement has been our specialists day. We have invited the whole school to join in a day dedicated to physical education and the arts,” Mr D’arma said.

“We have had live drawing and yoga classes with hundreds of students, we recorded cooking classes and held an epic dance party where students requested songs that were live streamed throughout the households in our community.

“Our PE teacher has been conducting live workouts on Facebook for families, we have had nightly stories being read on Facebook by different teachers and our kids have planned, recorded and produced their own TV shows and podcasts.”

Principal Denise Howley said with more than 8000 posts a week and more than 85 per cent of engagement in online learning activities, the interactive nature of education was paying off.

“We are excited about returning to school and optimistic that this experience will further strengthen the already excellent quality of teaching and learning we have currently at Bourchier Street Primary School,” Ms Howley said.

“We have so much to be grateful for, and welcome the next challenge!”

Bourchier Street Primary School student Lionel Dehne-Jenkins enjoyed online yoga during remote learning.

Online dance and yoga classes were a part of the Bourchier Street Primary School remote learning curriculum and student Evie Fennell (ABOVE and BELOW) had a lot of fun participating.

32 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE

Putting the focus on wellbeing F

rom playing a game of virtual WE’RE ENSURING STUDENTS ARE catch to helping parents overcome ACADEMICALLY SUPPORTED BUT their fears of remote learning, Orrvale PriPARTICULARLY THE WELLBEING mary School has put its social emotional AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AS WELL. learning into practice.

Emotional intelligence — ADAM BRENNAN is a part of the school’s fabric and principal Adam Brennan said durall about continuing their social connection. ing these uncertain times the “At a time where there has been school had continued to focus on wellbeing. heightened levels of anxiety, it was “What we’ve been more cona bit of fun and connection. cerned with is making sure every“It’s a reminder that even though one is okay,” Mr Brennan said. we’re at home we’re all the one “We’re ensuring students are acaschool.” demically supported but particuAs well as checking in on families, larly the wellbeing and social the school ran a webinar to help support as well.” parents understand that their He said creating a video where it child’s wellbeing was the most appeared as if the students were important thing during remote throwing a ball to each other was learning.

Orrvale Primary School school captains Georgia Keir and Aiden Whitelaw.

To ensure the ‘Calming Covid Chaos’ session was accessible to all, Mr Brennan said it was both live and recorded.

“One of parents’ biggest fears was failing their child, so we were able to give them some strategies,” he said.

“A lot of parents expressed that they were relieved that they weren’t alone and other parents are feeling the same.”

Well done!

Congratulations to the students, teachers, parents, and everyone else who has been working extra hard during d i th the C Coronavirus i pandemic. d i Th The efforts ff t by b allll to keep education moving despite these sudden challenges have been fantastic.

Well done also to the many people who have decided to use this time positively by furthering their own education, preparing themselves to come out stronger on the other side.

Authorised by D. Drum, National Party of Australia, Shepparton.

Damian DRUM MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NICHOLLS damian.drum.mp@aph.gov.au damiandrum.com.au

03 5821 5371

DamianDrumMP

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

33

EDUCATION FUTURE

A lesson in independence A

t Shepparton East Primary School it is easy to see the positive flow-on effects of remote learning.

Teacher Demi Morrison said a strong introduction to technology pre-pandemic and maintaining a regular routine enabled a smooth transition for Years 5-6 students.

Similar to their on-campus timetable, the students have studied literacy and numeracy at the beginning of the day with whole class video conferencing followed by more independent learning plus scheduled one-on-one sessions in the afternoon.

“We’ve kept it very structured and the same every day for them so they know exactly what to do,” Miss Morrison said.

In their final years of primary school, the unprecedented move to remote learning has allowed students’ independence to flourish.

It has taught them to follow written, pre-recorded and live video instructions, and teacher Brad Willaton said these experiences had developed students’ persistence and problem-solving skills.

“There are kids that are working completely independently,” Mr Willaton said.

“Because they can’t get that instantaneous answer, they have to problem-solve to get around

Shepparton East Primary School’s Years 5-6 team — Emily Cook, Rachel Chenery, Demi Morrison and Brad Willaton — believe there are many positives to come out of remote learning. issues, whether it’s a technology issue or finding out information or working out a question.”

With technology becoming a more significant part of learning than ever before, teacher Rachel Chenery said students were now better prepared with online etiquette and

typing skills.

“Just the fact they can email now and upload work, that’s a highschool thing,” Mrs Chenery said.

“In the past our kids haven’t gone high-school with that, and most primaries don’t; they will be very proficient at it when they go.”

Remote learning has not replaced the need for in-person education but teacher Emily Cook said there was plenty to incorporate into the classroom.

“It’s changed the way we’re teaching and it’s going to change the way we teach from now on,” Miss

Cook said.

“We are going to use Google Classroom as a platform in the classroom as well as the things that have worked with kids, like going back and listening to recordings again to get the work, rather than asking the teacher directly.”

WILMOT ROAD PRIMARY SCHOOL

Sirius College PRINCIPAL Sharon Thompson SCHOOL TOURS: By appointment

KEY DETAILS LEVEL F–6 SIZE

295 Students

Wilmot Road Primary School is a vibrant mul cultural school, situated in south Shepparton.

The school’s mo o is ‘Happiness Through Achievement’, which is achieved by providing an inclusive, rigorous learning environment that challenges and engages students to grow as passionate learners. The school has sustained strong student improvement over a number of years. The values are: Respect, Rela onships, Excellence, Fairness, Honesty and Success.

Now taking enrolments for Prep to Year 6.

A school where we endeavour to provide a balanced education that encompasses ‘academic excellence’ on the one hand, and ‘moral and ethical values’ on the other.

For more information please contact the school office 685 New Dookie Rd, Shepparton Phone: (03)!5858!8200 Email: shepparton@sirius.vic.edu.au

Campus Principal: Adem Engin www.sirius.vic.edu.au •

I N T E G R I T Y • R E S P E C T • C O M PA S S I O N AT E • D I V E R S I T Y • O P T I M I S M • I N Q U I S I T I V E • R E S I L I E N C E • E M PAT H Y • I N N O V AT I V E • K N O W L E D G E A B L E

The school’s core belief is that every child can learn, which is successfully facilitated through focusing on the core subjects of English, Mathema cs, Science and Humani es. The school has specialist teachers in these areas, Educa on Support sta in all classrooms, as well as strong Interven on and Accelera on programs. Specialist teachers cover the areas of Performing and Visual Arts, PE and Italian. The school also supports learning through a targeted camps and excursions program. Learning is supported through resourcing all areas and has a strong technology program. All students have access to a computer in their classrooms, whilst students in grades 4–6 par cipate in a netbook program.

The school values strong student leadership within the school and provides opportuni es for our students through School and House Captains and Junior School Council.

Our TOP Scholarship program is sponsored by local business and is designed to strengthen community links in pursuit of excellence.

Wilmot Road Primary School sta support students and their families within the school and enable connec ons with the wider

CONTACT DETAILS

community. Family Liaison O cers, Koorie Educa on Support O cer, Well–being Team, School Nurse, Play Therapist, Speech Pathologists and Occupa onal Therapists and Paediatric Clinic all contribute to student achievement. The school o ers a homework club, a er school sports program, play group, breakfast program and sports teams. A Community Hub facilitates connec ons with the community, providing a range of ac vi es for adults and toddlers.

Sharon Thompson 84–90 Wilmot Road, Shepparton, Victoria T: 03 5821 4953 www.wilmotrd.vic.edu.au

34 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE

Learning to learn F

rom staff to student and family, there has been much to learn from remote learning at Shepparton Christian College.

Principal Chris Aiton said the college had made the most of a difficult time.

“I think it’s just made us stop and think about ways we can do things differently,” Mr Aiton said.

“The technology is there and I guess one of the positive outcomes is we’ve now been challenged to use it in new and different ways and I think some of those new and different ways will follow through and stick post-COVID-19.’’

Rather than traditional face-toface meetings, parent interviews were hosted via Zoom and Mr Aiton said parents appreciated the changed format.

“That actually worked really smoothly and we were really pleased to be able to engage with our parents,” he said.

“It was a good opportunity to touch base with parents to discuss how their kids have been travelling and how we’re working together with parents to get the best we can for our kids.

“Some parents commented that it was far more accessible, and we’ll consider whether we continue to use a hybrid system.”

Mr Aiton said teachers were thinking outside the box.

Isaiah Day, Year 8, and Abraham Scanlon, Year 7, are two of the few Shepparton Christian College students learning on campus.

“Teachers are having to experiment with different ways of approaching the classroom and the learning environment,” he said.

“Grade 6 teacher Mr Stone, he’s been setting weekly challenges and this week it was to build a tower, last week was to do a trick shot.

“He’s done some video lessons and (in) one he dressed as a panda and another one he was dressed as a Stormtrooper — just creative ways of catching the kids’ attention.”

While maintaining strong teacherstudent connection, Mr Aiton said the experience was also fostering

stronger independence for senior students.

“Every one of our normal timetabled classes has video connection for secondary level, but we’re still not able to look over their shoulders,” he said.

“It’s definitely been challenging students around what does it look like for them to take more independent responsibility for their learning, and that is a very good outcome.

“There is a higher degree of independence that students are developing and that will serve them well long-term.”

Ardmona Primary School

Guthrie St Primary School

At Guthrie Street Primary School we encourage all students to be active, happy and productive learners who continually strive to produce their best.

An opportunity to view our school’s quality programs and supportive learning environment will be provided through school tours during Education Week.

A school of excellence that supports and celebrates the individual successes!

Welcome to the freshest in school looks, Ardmona Primary School.

Currently conducting individual school tours both for you and your child. Come along to our school and meet your child’s new classmates.

Shepparton Christian College students Emily Geerling, Prep, Max Rinaldi, Year 2, and Semilore Awosolu, Year 1, hard at work.

ARDMONA

“Step Into Prep” — Transition from Kinder to School will commence in week one of Term 4 and will include information sessions for first time Prep parents to make it easier on you as well!

PRIMARY SCHOOL

Please contact the school today on 5829 0273 to arrange a conversation with the principal, Jean, and organise a tour of the school!

580 Turnbull Road, Ardmona www.ardmonaps.vic.edu.au ardmona.ps@education.vic.gov.au !: Ardmona Primary School

Making the transition from Kindergarten to Foundation can be an exciting time for children and their families. At Guthrie Street Primary School we understand this can be new and challenging. To ensure a smooth and supported transition for students, we offer a series of 4 transition sessions conducted over two months. Students attend for one hour and get to participate in a variety of activities which are linked to experiences that students will have in their Foundation year.

Parents of prospective students are invited to book individual tours, please phone our office on 03 5821 1944 to arrange a time.

Transition sessions are as follows: Monday, 12th October Tuesday 27th October Wednesday 11th Novem ber Thursday 26th November 12.00pm to 1.00pm Please contact the school to book a position for your child.

Principal: Brendan Bicknell

Guthrie Street Primary School, Shepparton Ph: 5821 1944 | www.guthriestps.vic.edu.au

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

35

EDUCATION FUTURE

Tackling challenges T

here were always going to be teething problems when learning moved off campus and into students’ homes.

And Gowrie Street Primary School has risen to the challenges.

Assistant principal Eron Chapman said it was a simple decision to use Google Classroom for upper year levels, but finding the right fit for Prep to Year 2 students took a little trial and error.

When parents found the initial system using Facebook and Word documents clunky, she set about finding a better way.

“I thought, ‘how can we make that easier for parents to access?’ — because we also had some parents who were accessing it on the phone and the documents weren’t great on a phone,” Ms Chapman said.

Within a day or two the assistant principal had built a website.

Ms Chapman said the website was broken down to each week, then each day with everything students needed in one streamlined spot.

“On a Friday we put all the learning for the next week together and I put that all into Google Class-

room and then all into the website,” she said.

“The coloured blocks show what we’ll be doing for reading, writing, maths and some break times.

“For each subject there’s a link to a video that the teacher has made; and if the kids are to make something, the teachers have done an example and taken a picture of it to show the kids and their carers what the work would look like.

“It’s also got a chat function and that was another way to help people if they needed support.”

Ms Chapman said families and senior students were more engaged with the learning, having access to the weekly plan in advance.

“We’re thinking we’ll continue that and possibly the website could be a way to do that to let parents know what they (students) are going to be learning for the next week,” she said.

As well as strengthening the school-family partnership, Ms Chapman said the learning experience had allowed teachers’ adaptability to shine.

“I think it’s highlighted to our

Gowrie Street Primary School student Julie Ann Loyala planned her opinion-writing letter after watching her teacher’s lesson online.

Gowrie Street Primary School built a new website to help students in Prep to Year 2 learn from home. communities how adaptable our teachers are and how flexibly they work and rise to challenges,” she said.

“One of the biggest positives is that the community is being able to see what happened in schools.”

BOURCHIER ST. PRIMARY SCHOOL

2021 ENROLMENTS

— LEARNERS TODAY, LEADERS TOMORROW.

NOW OPEN Virtual Tour available through the school’s website: www.orrvaleps.vic.edu.au

At Orrvale Primary School, we offer: • All the benefits of a larger school in a rural setting g in which community y involvement is encouraged.

• Strong focus on the social and emotional development of our students.

• Outstanding student learning outcomes that demonstrate the e academic growth our students make in our care.

• Safe and happy learning ts environment where staff and students know and value each other.

For more information about the school or to make an appointment, please contact enrolment officer, Cathy Walton or Principal, Adam Brennan on 5829 2490 or email orrvale.ps@edumail.vic.gov.au

Bourchier St. Primary School is a learning community with high expectations for all students.

Enrol now for 2021! Phone us anytime for information.

At Bourchier Street Primary School we have: • Outstanding student achievement data • A strong focus on the wellbeing and social capabilities of every student • An engaging learning environment • Safe and happy students • Caring and committed staff • Family partnerships that enhance learning Please phone our school to engage in a conversation with our friendly staff to learn about how our children grow, learn and socialize here at Bourchier Street Primary School.

Bourchier St. Primary School Cnr Bourchier St & Balaclava Rd, Shepparton 3630 Ph: (03) 5821 3488 www.bourchierps.vic.edu.au Principal: Denise Howley

36 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Now taking Year 7 enrollments for 2021 until 29 May Why choose GSSC

Subject choice We’re getting the fundamentals right – Year 7 curriculum has a dedicated focus on Literacy and Numeracy with additional sessions in English and Mathematics, while also offering Humanities, Science, Languages, Physical Education, Arts and Technology subjects.

Learning Mentors We’re about the individual - your child will have a dedicated Learning Mentor to focus on their wellbeing, ensure consistency in their learning and be a !rst point of contact for parents. Year 7 Learning Mentors focus on the organisation and study skills so important to success in secondary school.

Our Learning Mentors have proven invaluable in helping our youngest students manage remote learning.

House model and wellbeing A student’s House at GSSC is their home base through secondary school - providing a sense of belonging, stability and a place to foster friendships. Our health and wellbeing model places each student at the centre of all that we do, delivering wrap-around care and specialist support when needed throughout their years at GSSC.

Our students are the focus of unprecedented investment in public education in Greater Shepparton, with our brand new secondary school fully funded and opening in 2022.

Three Neighbourhood buildings, each featuring three Houses, providing more intimate and inclusive “schools within a school” settings for students

•

The Neighbourhood buildings each have a learning resource centre, canteen and atrium

•

An Enterprise and Innovation Centre, providing a central heart for the school and a welcome centre for the broader community

A performing arts space to showcase student talents

•

Dedicated indoor and outdoor sport and recreation facilities

Specialist arts, science, hospitality and technology spaces, as well as dedicated areas for physical

In other words - modern and contemporary facilities for the !rst time in decades!

In 2022, they will be among the very !rst to bene!t from the world-class education facilities Greater Shepparton students deserve, including: •

•

education, health and wellbeing •

Ellie, Year 7 My Learning Mentor has been amazing by regularly catching up with me to check that I am going well with my studies and checking with how I am managing with my remote learning.

Millicent, Year 7 Having a Learning Mentor is great. They help and support me with my learning.

Applying for Year 7 enrolments:

You should have received a Transition Pack from your primary school, or you can obtain one from your child’s school. For more information about the college, its curriculum and programs, email us at enrolments@gssc.vic.edu.au or call us on (03) 5858 9891

Hamish, Year 7 I !nd my Learning Mentor very helpful and makes learning a lot easier. I get to connect with him each day and this helps make sure my learning is on track.

Rhykha, Year 7 The bene!t of my Learning Mentor is that she is really nice and is always there for me no matter what to help me with my classes. Miss Cameron is my favourite teacher as well as my mentor.

We’re new – with world-class facilities Many of the bene!ts of this investment are being delivered right now and into 2021 with more subject choice, more wellbeing support and more education pathways at GSSC for incoming Year 7 students at McGuire campus.

Jamila, Year 7 My Learning Mentor has done a wondrous job of making sure my classmates and I all feel comfortable with ourselves, our peers and our work.

She makes sure we always feel con!dent and ready to learn!

www.greatersheppartoncollege.vic.edu.au

GREATER SHEPPARTON SECONDARY COLLEGE

37

38 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE

Reading, writing, and routine R

outine has been crucial to the success of Ardmona Primary School’s remote learning experience.

Year 4-6 teacher Jacob Tunks said keeping the teaching as similar to the classroom as possible had simplified the transition for students, parents and teachers alike.

“To keep the kids’ momentum going we’ve kept this as normal as possible,” Mr Tunks said.

“They are doing the same routine as they would be in class including our specialist subjects — art, Italian, indigenous cultural studies, PE and history and geography.”

With literacy and numeracy taught in the morning the students look forward to their afternoon sessions.

Mr Tunks said this structure was not only engaging and kept academics on track but was important for student wellbeing in these uncertain times.

“Keeping the routine gives them a

Ardmona Primary School student Ariella Parker is hard at work during remote schooling.

sense of calm,” he said.

“With the small number of kids we have been able to regularly keep in contact and I think it’s been a lot easier than being in a big school.

“I’ve been impressed by their eagerness to keep learning.”

The biggest difference has been the introduction of more technology, but Mr Tunks said it had encouraged students to become more independent in their learning and would set them up for the future.

“We always had Italian virtually so they got used to that pretty quickly,” he said.

“It’s definitely developed their technology skills and promoted more independence for later in life.”

Mr Tunks said Ardmona looked to continue using this technology back on campus to enrich their approach to teaching the individual and further develop each student’s independence.

WE DREAM BIG AT GOWRIE ST! MOOROOPNA PRIMARY SCHOOL Mooroopna Primary School is an inclusive school that is committed to providing a safe, happy and welcoming environment for students and families.

In 2021, MPS will be opening an Integrated Early Learning Centre (IELC), with building works underway in 2020. The IELC will be part of The Colman Foundation Our Place model. The IELC will provide education and health and wellbeing support for parents and children, under school age, as well as children of school age. The IELC will o er four year old kindergarten with facilities available for three-year-old kinder. Long-term day care will also be o ered.

There will be access to Child and Maternal Health services, paediatrician as well as other allied health services. The IELC will proactively o er education for families as we work towards our vision of supporting families to be safe, healthy and happy.

Mooroopna Primary School:

• Adheres to Child Safe Standards which includes proactively teaching students how to be respectful and responsible members of today’s society. MPS is a Respectful Relationships lead school; • Encourages family members’ involvement in their child’s learning; • Provides an after-school program and a daily breakfast club; • Works with the wider community to collaborate with students to build career aspirations and wellbeing support; • Has a strong commitment to arts education, which includes a school band; • Provides a technology rich environment to enhance student learning and school engagement; • Incorporates our Learning Communities model. Learning Communities come together weekly for children to learn and support each other in mixed groups of children, Foundation to Year 6; and • Provides excellent facilities that provide a wide range of learning environments.

For a virtual tour of Mooroopna Primary School, please visit our web site and follow the link. https://mooroopna.vic.edu.au For enrolment enquiries, please contact Mr Steve Rogers, Principal on 5825 2060

16-18 O’Brien Street, Mooroopna, 3629

W

e want our students to take great strength stre from who they are so to empower them to seize life’s opportunities. All our students have Hopes & Dreams plans that they share with their families at special student-led conferences.

We believe that fundamental to our students seizing life’s opportunities is excellent teaching and learning, and we have invested heavily in literacy and numeracy consultants who are experts in their !elds and additional leadership positions.

We are extremely proud of our Foundation Intensive Program and we have a strong focus on the Reader’s and Writer’s workshop across all year levels.

We are proud of our productive and positive learning environments and the additional supports available for all students. These include some excellent learning interventions, including Reading Intervention programs at all year levels. We also have a range of special wellbeing supports, including the neighbourhood paediatric clinic and play therapy program.

Please contact our of!ce to book an appointment and a personalised tour.

Ph: 03 5821 3100 Email: Gowrie.street.ps.shepparton@edumail.vic.gov.au 1–19 Gowrie St, Shepparton VIC 3630 Principal: Tim Warwick

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

39

EDUCATION FUTURE

Seesaw a success R

emote learning has allowed Guthrie Street Primary School to see what is possible with the help of technology.

Having previously implemented Seesaw as a communication tool between parents and teachers, principal Brendan Bicknell said the app had been a huge success in delivering learning to students.

“We didn’t know the capabilities fully until we started using remote learning and then we were surprised at what Seesaw could do,” Mr Bicknell said.

“It’s a great tool for teachers to be able to upload work and videos and a great way for students to communicate back.

“Now it’s a tool for all three stakeholders to use — our parents, our teachers and our students are all engaged in it.”

From Foundation to Year 6, all Guthrie St students have learnt via the app.

Mr Bicknell said teachers were sharing videos and lessons on Seesaw for students to access at home, and the school would continue to use the app when things returned to normal. ‘‘That’s certainly something we’ll keep using when students return to school,” he said.

“Students can go over two or three times and really clarify their understandings, not only for them

Learning at home was a simple transition for Year 6 Guthrie Street Primary School student Lucy Bicknell. but also for their parents who are helping them out at home.

“It’s a great way of also sharing work with parents when they (students) do come back to school so parents can be a lot more informed about how their students is going.

“The least we can do now is use it for homework and things like that coming back into normal school life.”

Mr Bicknell said the smooth tran-

sition to remote learning had also been helped by the school’s successful BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program.

While most older students had an iPad to work from, the school was able to provide one for those who did not.

“We probably had 80 to 100 iPads across the school that we lent out to families for students to use during this time if they didn’t have one at home.”

Year 3 Guthrie Street Primary School student Ruby Pickles hard at work during remote learning.

Returning to School With schools slowly returning to face-to-face learning, I hope parents, carers and students have enjoyed some rewarding experiences during the last few months.

Everyone is to be congratulated for their efforts in helping our children to study from home and stay safe.

As we move into a new phase of combating the Coronavirus Pandemic, we will need to remain vigilant and practice good hygiene in our schools and in those workplaces returning to a more normal footing.

The success of these efforts has been borne out in the very low rates of COVID-19 infection experienced by our community, greatly assisting our health workers who I

Thank you to everyone for your contribution and I wish our students a productive, happy and healthy time for the remainder of what has been an extraordinary school year.

Keeping Shepparton dent nt proudly independent

Suzanna Sheed MP

INDEPENDENT MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON DISTRICT

Phone: (03) 5831 6944 www.suzannasheed.com.au

@SheedSuzanna

would also like to thank for their considerable services.

It has been a tough time on all of us but it has also been a time for rediscovering simple pleasures and spending meaningful time with those closest to us.

@SuzannaSheed

Funded from Parliamentary Budget. Authorised by: Suzanna Sheed, 5 Vaughan St, Shepparton VIC 3630.

40 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE

Reaping rewards of remote learning T

St George’s Road Primary School student Jean Morgan recreated Girl with the Pearl Earring for an art project during remote learning.

he shift to remote learning has strengthened the St George’s Rd Primary School community.

With increased communication between home and school, assistant principal Adam Burbidge said the move had seen benefits he hoped would continue after students returned to the campus.

“We feel the time has helped build relationships with the families,” Mr Burbidge said.

“It’s brought us closer and we don’t want to see that go.”

To support learning at home the school implemented an online library and prior to the decision to move back to school was working towards all students having an individual digital learning device — plus, with help from State Schools’ Relief, ensured all families had internet access.

Mr Burbidge said staff worked hard to provide learning tasks including specialist programs like art, music and physical education.

“We pride ourselves on our collaboration and team work and this has really shone during this time of challenge,” he said.

Johannes Vermeer’s 17th century masterpiece Girl with a Pearl Earring.

“Staff have adapted quickly and ensured continuity of learning for our students; students have

enjoyed exciting video lessons from their teachers, as well as being provided stimulating work and resource packs to support learning in the home.”

As well as keeping students engaged, Mr Burbidge said the introduction of a range of technology and digital learning platforms had made the ‘classroom’ more accessible for families.

“This situation has forced people to engage with technology and the families have got on board,” he said.

“We are in their homes.

“If the parents wants to back up that learning with their children or the children want to individually, they can.

“We are immensely proud of the amazing effort our students and families have made throughout this remote learning period.”

Mr Burbidge said the use of technology had upskilled teachers and students alike.

He also said with the upper year levels using Microsoft Teams it had allowed the students to keep socially connected.

ENROLMENTS OPEN FOR 2021/22

Personalised Virtual Tours Now Available Prep to Year 12 enrolment applications are welcomed from all families who embrace the Christian Ethos of the College.

www.scc.vic.edu.au (03)5831 7790 admin@scc.vic.edu.au

Small School Opportunities

g i B

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

41

EDUCATION FUTURE

Historic year for new college T

his year was always going to be historic for Greater Shepparton Secondary College, according to executive principal Genevieve Simson.

“Prior to New Year’s Day the college didn’t even formally exist,” Ms Simson said.

“Yet by the end of January, we were welcoming the first students of GSSC — they arrived in new uniforms, in many cases on new bus routes to new campuses, with new classmates and to a new group of teachers.”

Ms Simson said Term 1 saw the staff, students and wider community of parents and carers experience many more ‘‘firsts’’ that came with the merger of local secondary schools.

By the end of term, GSSC was rapidly preparing for another first — remote learning.

When term two commenced GSSC joined every Victorian primary and secondary school in the historymaking move to learning from home.

Ms Simson said remote schooling was an important part of helping to slow the spread of coronavirus in the wider community.

“For the GSSC school community, remote learning meant managing more change for ourselves, our students and our school community.

“For teachers, it has meant an

Greater Shepparton Senior College executive principal Genevieve Simson pictured with students in term one before remote learning happened. immense effort to equip themselves with new and improved remote learning skills. They’ve shown great dedication, and great innovation, to reach out to students.”

Ms Simson said thanks was owed to all — staff, parents, carers and

students — for their efforts during unprecedented circumstances.

She said support staff, from information technology experts to health and wellbeing specialists, also rose to the challenge with more than 700 laptops loaned to students and help for families

Shepparton East Primary ENROLLING NOW FOR 2020

requiring extra support.

“Our parents and carers have worked positively with the college and have been supporting our teachers’ efforts while they turn their lounge rooms, bedrooms and kitchen tables into temporary classrooms.”

Ms Simson said students, who experienced the most change, deserved credit for the way they have responded to the challenges of remote learning.

“We look forward to welcoming them back to the classroom, where they can keep up their good work.”

Creating a community of learners Developing fl exible and adaptable students to thrive in the future.

Enrol Now for 2021.

Prep Open Day

Wednesday, August 12th 9.15 am – 10.30 am

At St Georges Rd Primary School we have:

Shepparton East Primary School offers: » High impact Literacy and Numeracy programs » Inquiry-based learning » Visual Arts, Physical Education, Performing Arts and STEM » Camps, Sport and Cultural experiences » Before and After School Care » Science Specialist School

Personal school tours with the Principal, Trent McCrae, are available by telephoning 5829 2426 for an appointment.

• • • • • • •

Excellent literacy and numeracy programs Specialist programs that develop the talents of all students A strong focus on student wellbeing and social capabilities An engaging environment that caters for all learners I.T resources at all year levels Caring and committed staff Programs to connect families to the school community

Families are encouraged to make enrolment enquiries anytime. Please call our office.

St. Georges Road Primary School Principal: Kerrianne ‘Dougie’ Souter Phone: 5821 3383 • 120 St Georges Rd, Shepparton www.stgeorges.vic.edu.au

42 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

EDUCATION FUTURE

Contact reassuring for families A

(ABOVE and BELOW RIGHT) Mooroopna Primary School students’ sound technology skills have helped them keep up with their learning.

A B E T T E R WAY TO

LEARN

YEARS 11 & 12 PROGRAMS | APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 2021 SEDA.VIC.EDU.AU

greater level of connection between staff, students and families has been the positive upside of Mooroopna Primary School’s remote-learning experience.

Principal Steve Rogers said the formation of a strong wellbeing communication tree was identified early on as an important way to support the entire school community during the changes to traditional learning.

Teachers are in regular contact with parents and students via phone, email and Google Classroom and Mr Rogers said he was receiving reports that families were finding the contact reassuring.

“I’m hearing from families that they are looking forward to those catch-up times,” Mr Rogers said.

“We’ve always had a high level of communication with face-to-face contact, but this has just taken it to the next level.

“Sometimes these calls have to be done outside of the typical 9 am to 3 pm of school hours, so we work in with what is suitable for families.”

The implementation of Google Classroom — a platform for teachers to assign daily class work for individual students — will likely be continued to be used in some form when face-to-

face classes resume.

“We’ve found it to be a very useful tool to encourage students to be more independent, and we can see it being used in the classroom environment into the future,” Mr Rogers said.

The school’s commitment to the use of technology-based learning had allowed a relatively seamless transition, Mr Rogers said. He said students had taken the lead and helped their parents adjust.

“It’s been amazing how not just schools, teachers, students and parents, but community groups and businesses have massively adapted to so much change,” Mr Rogers said.

In the meantime work is continuing on the development of the Integrated Early Learning Centre, which will open next year as part of The Colman Foundation’s Our Place model.

The centre will provide education and health and wellbeing support for parents and children, fouryear-old kindergarten, with facilities available for three-year-old kinder and long-term day care.

Access to Child and Maternal Health services, a paediatrician and other allied health services will support Mooroopna Primary School’s vision of supporting families to be safe, healthy and happy.

SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

43

EDUCATION FUTURE

Planning fun return to school W

ith an end to remote learning in sight, Shepparton ACE College is focused on making the full-time return to school as interesting as possible for students.

Principal Bronwyn Rose said a series of exciting learning activities had been planned, including a billycart-making session for Years 7 and 8 students and the resumption of circus training, once trainers can travel from Melbourne.

“We’ll also have students working on a humorous short film about the way different individuals have coped with the lockdown situation,” Ms Rose said.

A small cohort of Year 12 students have continued learning on-site, while the school has remained open for students who needed additional support.

Ms Rose said the college prepared early for education changes forced by the COVID-19 pandemic and from the first day of term two had systems in place for the continuation of learning.

“We had hard-copy packs ready to go, which our teachers delivered personally to each student in that

Shepparton’s ACE College is ready to get back into circus training. first week.

“That really helped to alleviate any issues families might have had with access to technology or the internet.

“Every week teachers have phoned each student or their parent to talk about any issues they may be hav-

AFL development coach Brett Goodes holds a Zoom session with SEDA College’s Shepparton students.

ing, or to discuss their progress.”

Making strong connections with families, going forward, has been one positive and Ms Rose said everyone was looking forward to returning to school.

“Our teachers love to teach. We are such a small school that you really

feel the teenage energy around, and we’ve missed that.”

The college has continued to accept enrolments throughout the lockdown and has conducted inspections while adhering to social distancing rules.

“You can’t replace talking to peo-

ple or get the feel of a school with a virtual tour, it’s just not the same,” Ms Rose said.

“Our methods to keep people safe have been very effective, temperatures are taken at the door and hand sanitiser is available before anyone enters the building.”

SEDA College’s Shepparton students during their Zoom session with Brett Goodes.

Keeping students engaged S

EDA College is best known for its hands-on learning environment — but students have also continued to thrive as clinics go online.

At the forefront of innovative senior secondary education, the college has adapted to virtual learning by utilising online technology.

With its curriculum aligned to students’ interests and life experiences and a one-teacher-one-classroom model, the college has kept stu-

dents engaged and continuing their education.

In a learning-from-home setting, students have conducted virtual clinics to maintain growth in their practical experiences linked to the VET and VCAL curriculum, and to connect to industry partners and the local community.

The college prides itself on providing opportunities for students to connect with industry and learn a range of transferable skills that will

prepare them for a successful future.

SEDA College teacher Katie Heard said the college had been able to maintain this strong industry connection and alignment to students’ passions by involving industry leaders to conduct virtual sessions.

Recently Brett Goodes and Chris Antsey spoke with Shepparton students via Zoom about their experiences performing as elite athletes in the AFL, NBA, NBL and other

leagues but also more broadly about life and careers in all aspects of sport.

“Chris gave students engaging examples and valuable insight into the importance of being ‘open to opportunity and always ready to try new things’ as they forge their career pathways,” Mrs Heard said, ‘‘whilst the session with Brett provided students with eye-opening and insightful education into the issue of racism in sport linked to curricu-

lum and cultural awareness training that students and staff are working through leading into National Reconciliation Week.”

SEDA College is one of Australia’s top providers of applied learning for senior secondary students, offering Shepparton students opportunities to work in the local community and with sports industry partners such as AFL Victoria, Netball Victoria, Basketball Victoria, Cricket Australia and Melbourne City FC.

44 SNFEATURE

SHEPPARTON NEWS, FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2020

Shepparton, Mooroopna, Tatura and District Primary Schools

FOUNDATION ENROLMENTS FOR 2021 The following Shepparton, Mooroopna, Tatura and district schools are currently accepting enrolments for the 2021 school year.

Ardmona Primary .................................. 5829 0273

Lemnos Primary ..................................... 5829 9287

Tatura Primary ........................................ 5824 1684

Bourchier St Primary ............................... 5821 3488

Merrigum Primary .................................. 5855 2275

Toolamba Primary .................................. 5826 5212

Congupna Primary ................................ 5829 9286

Mooroopna North Primary ......................5829 0141

Tungamah Primary ..................................5748 5627

Currawa Primary .................................... 5828 6581

Mooroopna Park Primary ...................... 5825 3856

Undera Primary ........................................5826 0211

Dhurringile Primary ............................... 5826 6222

Mooroopna Primary . ............................. 5825 2060

Verney Rd School .....................................5821 8185

Dookie Primary ...................................... 5828 6585

Murchison Primary ................................. 5826 2391

Waaia Yalca South Primary ..................... 5864 1283

Gowrie St Primary .................................. 5821 3346

Numurkah Primary ................................. 5862 1426

Wilmot Rd Primary ................................. 5821 4953

Grahamvale Primary ................................5821 4219

Orrvale Primary ..................................... 5829 2490

Zeerust Primary ...................................... 5829 8282

Guthrie St Primary ...................................5821 1944

Shepparton East Primary ...................... 5829 2426

Harston Primary ..................................... 5854 8317

St Georges Rd Primary ........................... 5821 3383

Katamatite Primary ................................ 5865 1242

Tallygaroopna Primary .......................... 5829 8264

Katandra West Primary ......................... 5828 3350 Katunga Primary ................................... 5864 6365 Kialla Central Primary ............................. 5827 1373 Kialla West Primary ................................ 5823 1333