Learning during COVID 19
During the time of COVID 19, MLC has been fortunate to be well-placed to make the transition to online learning, via our Continuous Learning and Wellbeing program.
As all of our students from Prep to Year 12 have their own electronic devices (iPads for Preps - Year 2, notebook computers for Years 3 - 12), it has meant that our students adapted to online learning easily.
Of course, there were many adjustments made to the delivery of curriculum, and our teaching staff have truly gone above and beyond to ensure high quality of lessons.
Some of the changes include:
- Our Banksia Outdoor Education program for Years 5-8 moved online, no mean feat! The online program included many virtual elements: packing lists, astronomy, cooking, mindfulness, canoeing and even 'expo at home'!
- Our PE and Sport Department have designed several ways for students to not only continue their regular PE classes, but stay healthy and active. This includes 'Active Afternoons' for Junior School, an online fitness club, online Cross Country, and an incredible sixteen programs of the regular Term 2 sports, all with bespoke online coaching.
- Our Home Economics Department have continued many ways of teaching new recipes, from designing your own mocktail to eggs benedict!
From the Principal:
As written by Diana Vernon
As we have all commented, we are living in extraordinary times. Indeed, we are pioneering a whole new way of working, living and, of course, schooling.
In support of the Victorian Government’s response to COVID 19, encouraging everyone to stay at home, where possible, MLC trialled a week of off-site delivery of our Continuous Learning and Wellbeing program to all students in the final week of Term 1. Our primary focus was, and is, in maintaining continuity of learning and wellbeing for our students and in providing a safe and supportive environment for our staff and students in which to enable this.
This trial was very well received by students, parents and colleagues alike. We also received some very helpful feedback that has since guided us in making useful adjustments to improve our delivery during Term 2.
Through our Continuous Learning and Wellbeing program, our aim is to deliver a program that provides the routines and structures of school life, that is based on good learning practices and that focuses on ensuring a sense of connection and community.
Following the Easter Break, our teaching staff completed two Staff Learning days, with everyone off-site. These allowed colleagues to hone their skills. This time also provided additional opportunities for collaboration to ensure the best learning and wellbeing program and outcomes for our students.
We are all excited about the term ahead, buoyed by the success of our trial week and our subsequent improvements to our program.
From a community perspective, we have also enjoyed seeing photos of our students learning alongside their pets as well as examples of our teachers’ creativity and hearing how members of our Parents’ Association are providing support to those in the community who need assistance. It is evident we have a very caring and connected community with relationships at the heart of everything we do.
Most importantly, I would like to thank each member of our community for their patience, support, commitment, suggestions and, ultimately, care for each other during these challenging times.
With best wishes,
Diana Vernon
Principal