The Courier: Semester 1 2020

It is always important to reflect on times of crisis and
think about what the learnings have been. For us, our
students and teachers have realised how exhausting it
is to be on screens all day long. Remote learning has
reminded us that powerful learning can only happen
when we are engaged, energetic and focused.
Some students found they were less distracted by peers
via remote, some parents learnt that there are skills in
pedagogy, some students were turned onto learning
more via remote, some students were more prepared
to discuss errors and what they did not know, and
many teachers discovered new ways of working so that
students did not have to be in front of them all day
listening to teachers talking.
Keeping the ritual of schooling, with its attendance
taking, moments of social interaction, and students
staying in contact with their peers and friends is
important psychologically. This came through very
strongly when we surveyed our students about their
remote learning experiences. Missing their friends
and teachers, missing being able to talk about their
learning, collaborating and asking questions were what
the students disliked the most about online learning.
It is often said that adversity builds character.
Although it could be argued that living through adverse
situations can refine certain characteristics within a
person, adversity does not build character. Adversity
reveals one’s true character. Our Woodcroft character
has been revealed as resilient, agile, responsive,
relational and supportive. Most importantly, our
community has remained steadfast and strong as we
have faced an ever-changing landscape.
That being said, we are looking forward to the
continuing easing of restrictions over time that will see
us be able to worship together, celebrate together, play
sport together and perform together.
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