Challenge and Optimism

MRS KESTEVEN

Life can throw all sorts of strange and unexpected things at us, and the lockdown this year one was of them. My philosophy has always been to try to find the positive aspects from such experiences, even though I must say, sometimes this was not always easy. I am usually quite an active person, but my motivation took a tumble around the end of April. So, I decided to sign up for a number of virtual challenges. I completed: the 180- mile Alps to Ocean Challenge, which follows a virtual route in New Zealand; a Spring 10K run and the Midsummer Run, which saw runners across Europe running at sunrise on the longest day of the year.

Photos of my virtual walking and running challenges

I have really enjoyed embracing new technologies and learning new skills. Running my first Teams meetings for Book Club and the Pupil Librarian Team were a little scary, and I probably still get

things wrong but it is amazing that we can run our regular weekly meetings from wherever we are in the world. We have been able to collaborate on all sorts of exciting projects, such as the Pupil Librarian House Reading Quiz and the LRC Book Club Reading School Book Award. I have also really enjoyed playing Dungeons and Dragons every Friday afternoon. I have had a lot to learn, including how to run a campaign remotely, but there is nothing better than immersing yourself in a fantastical world of dragons, gnomes and elves at the end of the week.

I have also loved having more time to read and I have really appreciated the opportunity to participate in virtual literary festivals such as the Hay Festival Online. The YA Book Prize shortlist was a wonderful opportunity to explore new authors and genres. My favourite Lockdown reads are ‘Deeplight’ by Frances Hardinge and ‘Crossfire’ by Malorie Blackman. I also loved The ‘Deathless Girls’ by Kiran Millwood Hargarve and ‘On the Come Up’ by Angie Thomas. These were all on this year’s fantastic YA Book Prize shortlist. I hope I remember to take the time to sit outside, watch the birds, drink some tea and read a book once the hustle and bustle of everyday life starts up again.