As we head into Term 3 holidays it is an opportunity to reflect on what has probably been the most challenging time in my 30 years of teaching. Rather than focus on the disadvantages of remote learning, I am constantly reminded of the silver linings and how important it is to ‘hunt the good’. Improved time management, technological fluency, self-discipline, independence and resilience are lifelong skills that have certainly been developed in our students in the online learning environment. The enhanced knowledge that parents have gained about their children as learners and the way curriculum is delivered has for many parents become increasingly visible. Whilst we are eagerly anticipating the return to onsite learning, it is important to celebrate the skills that are being developed in our students that are difficult to replicate in the classroom and are happening in the safety of loungerooms with the support of parents!
We would like to acknowledge our wonderful Junior School Parent Association (JSPA). They held their annual general meeting on Tuesday evening, where Priscilla Duncan completed her final meeting as President. Priscilla has led with great positivity, organisation and attention to detail. We are delighted she will remain on the committee next year as her youngest child completes their final year in Junior School. Geordie Nehme, who has held various roles in the JSPA including the New Family Co-ordinator, has been an enduring member and contributor to the Junior School community. Along with Nicole Poustie, Geordie will be moving onto Middle School in 2021. We welcome Chrissy Margaritis to the role of JSPA President next year. Chrissy has three children in the Junior School and has been a long-standing contributor to the JSPA.
To all committee members and parent class representatives we thank you sincerely for your support of the Junior School community. The contribution and engagement of the JSPA during this year’s challenging time, despite having little fundraising opportunities, has been significant and is testimony to their wonderful culture of giving.
This year’s contributions include:
- Carey Student Fee Support Fund – providing timely support for our families and students experiencing hardship.
- Outdoor Table Tennis Table – our students will be very excited and grateful for the JSPA’s gift enabling the purchase of this equipment, which was specifically recommended by our Student Representative Council.
- Carey Care Committee – this gift supports our Chaplains and the Carey Angels with their important work in providing care to Carey families experiencing a range of hardships, including pandemic impact.
- Indigenous Literacy Foundation – in the absence of the traditional book sale, the JSPA’s gift has enabled our continuing support of this important cause, coinciding with Indigenous Literacy Day on 2 September.
- World Vision – Carey has a longstanding connection with this wonderful charity and the JSPA’s important contribution will enable our child sponsorships – co-ordinated through the Junior School Chaplain – to continue.
The culture of giving is a defining characteristic of Carey, and in particular, the JSPA’s contribution to Carey students and families is heartening and greatly valued, particularly at this challenging time.
We wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday away from screens and routines.
Lee Taylor
Deputy Head – Student Learning
