IN ASSOCIATION WITH in the event of rising numbers in the wider community . Whilst it would be lovely to think that this is all over , we must enter the new academic year braced for further disruption but confident that schools will respond in a way that minimises the impact on learning .’
Dr David Lamper , Kent College
‘ Despite the numerous upheavals and interruptions to education over the past two academic years , the answer is as they do every year . By encouraging self motivation , independence and resilience .’
Francie Healy , Bethany School
We also understand that some pupils may be nervous about a return to school . There will be more changes to systems and procedures as we look to move back to the way things were in pre-Covid times . Parents can best help their children prepare for this by asking them about what they are looking forward to about the new school year and listening to their concerns . Parents can also help their children by supporting them to nurture their friendships , which certainly suffered during the periods of lockdown . Encouraging them to arrange time with their friends over the next few weeks will remind them that school is about more than timetables and lessons and learning , but also about shaping relationships .
Parents can also reassure their children that the return to face to face teaching and relaxing of Covid restrictions , albeit in a controlled way , will enable their children to learn in a more relaxed and focused environment with increased emphasis on pupil well being .’
Edward O ’ Connor , St Edmund ’ s School
‘ I would suggest two things : one , by encouraging them to think of September as a new start – a chance to rethink or renew their academic priorities . And two , by making sure that their child knows who they can talk to at school if they ever experience difficulties along the way . Never be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help .’
What has changed for the best during the past 18 months of education disruption ?
Simon Fisher , Dover College
‘ They say that every cloud has a silver lining , and school leaders up and down the country have sought comfort in the positives that have come from this extraordinary period of disruption . The rapid upskilling in digital technology , for both pupils and teachers , has certainly been one . Whilst few would favour a model of sustained learning through a screen , a range of possibilities for creativity , collaboration and learning have been opened up . The opportunity for children to join the physical classroom digitally – due to travel disruption , a snow day or illness – is a game changer ! Two years ’ worth of public examination results awarded differently has also sped up a much-needed debate around the future of qualifications . Many felt that the reforms made to GCSEs and A Levels a few years ago did not go far enough to make them fit for purpose , and we may well see a ‘ reset ’ in the years to come .’
Edward O ’ Connor , St Edmund ’ s School
‘ There is now a greater understanding of how the proper use of educational technology can help personalise learning . In consequence , this term we are implementing artificial intelligence software to enhance our classroom provision . This will provide exciting stretch and challenge opportunities for highly able students and also offer valuable additional support systems across the whole academic range .’
Francie Healy , Bethany School
‘ As we look ahead to a new academic year , one that I am sure will be very different and bring its own fresh set of challenges , I am certain that we will hold on to what we have already learnt , about our school and about ourselves , and will keep learning and improving , developing our resilience , staying positive and focused , and continuing to talk . The ICT skills of teachers and pupils have increased beyond measure and educational provision will continue to include ICT as an essential tool in its delivery . We have all placed greater importance on mental health and wellbeing since March 2020 and we will also be much more sensitive to the needs of others . Much great emphasis will be placed on extracurricular enrichment so that any deficit in pupil interpersonal development skills can be addressed in the next 12 months .’
Dr David Lamper , Kent College
‘ Students have demonstrated themselves how they can be successful whilst being more independent . Teachers have shown great creativity in adapting wider educational activities and responding to the need to provide lesson content digitally . Most of all , the experience of coming through a global pandemic together has reinforced the importance of , and strengthened , our community , and this bodes well for a positive future .’
BETHANY SCHOOL
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