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PANDEMIC PAPERS
FAITH AND RESILIENCE AT SPRINGFIELD RENEE MICHALKOW
springfield communications and events officer
I
n spite of the uncertainties and disappointments encountered through 2020, Year 12 students remained optimistic and persevered. In less than 12 months they’ve learnt how to navigate independent online learning, dealt with cancellation of activities, adapted to the requirements of the new ATAR system, and planned their post-school pathways. Commendably, they’ve worked through it all with positivity and faith. Year 12 Springfield Captains Zac H, Minna H and Khushi P talk candidly about their year.
Zac H Online learning was a big challenge in adjusting to the way we had to access our daily tasks and speak to our teachers. Obviously, it came with its own set of hurdles including motivation and adapting to working alone, but the work itself was consistent in its content. Leadership responsibilities also changed, causing us to rethink our whole strategy for the year and move instead to our aim of 'Virtual Leadership' which has been a challenge. QCAA has been helpful in recognising the stress this year and removed one of our assessments to ease this. Our teachers have also all been very understanding of our situation and have been providing ongoing support for us. For me at least, my family and friends have also been instrumental in maintaining a healthy outlook. The pandemic hasn’t impacted significantly on my future plans, since my path of going to university and studying law is still intact. However, it could be an entirely different experience if universities decide to exclusively implement online lectures and teaching. A big disappointment that I (and the other House Captains) have experienced is the loss of the majority of our sport carnivals. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to enjoy what would have been our final Cross Country and Track & Field Carnivals. As Leichhardt Captains, we had planned initiatives to boost morale and win us the House Cup. However, it’s important to be grateful for what we didn’t miss out on—which was an unforgettable Year 12 Formal. Three things from the Graduate Tree that resonate with me personally would have to be: love, compassion and resilience.
Plus Ultra | November 2020
