The students are at the centre of everything we do at Carey. When planning and delivering learning experiences in and out of the classroom, we aim to provide opportunities for our young people to grow as learners and individuals, developing skills whilst having fun. You might think that what we do is very different than in PC (Pre-COVID) years but, really, lockdown has enabled us to rethink our programs and redesign them for a virtual space, still with the purpose of making a difference and supporting our community. Yes, these times are challenging and, yes, we miss the joys and the rewards of face-to-face interaction but, in many cases, the ‘new normal’ has enabled us to refine, develop, enhance and improve our offerings.
This week, Year 10 participated in the Health and Wellbeing day, born from a wish to support students to make good decisions about their own health and wellbeing, which is particularly important during these uncertain times. Through a number of online electives and livestream sessions and talks, students investigated a variety of strategies to enhance overall health and wellbeing and engage in exciting activities. The day focussed on four topics: nutrition, exercise, sleep and mental health. This program was particularly topical in current circumstances, when so much of what we regard as normal and have taken for granted is being disrupted. In the words of our Head of Senior School, Mr Graeme Young, who addressed the students at the onset of the day, ‘It is crucial now that we recognise the importance of rethinking ways of maintaining our health and wellbeing.’ We are thankful for the work that went into the devising and delivery of the day, and grateful to Mrs Sally Nelson for co-ordinating the event and to all staff who led a session.
Other programs have been modified to be fully accessible in the virtual space such as this week’s Science Week activities led by Leader of Learning for Science, Dr Julie Harris-Wetherbee. This year, the national Science Week theme is ‘Deep Blue: Innovations for the Future of our Oceans’, with Middle and Senior School students taking part in marine science activities all throughout the week. The Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre (Blue Economy CRC) have played a significant role in creating this online event, and some Carey students were fortunate to be involved in interviewing a selection of Blue Economy CRC scientists and engineers. Read more about Science Week at Carey.
Another example of our ‘new normal’ is next week’s virtual celebration of Pride Week, an opportunity to continue to raise awareness of important issues around equality and inclusion. Carey’s week-long celebration of Pride was brought together by the Carey Pride Group is led by Mr Simon Carver, Carey Pride and Equality teacher liaison, and consists of numerous students and staff who share a commitment to the inclusion of diverse genders and sexualities. This year’s program of events will be delivered through online platforms: a virtual recorded Q&A session to provide opportunities to share personal journeys, a pre-recorded video by author Nevo Zisin, a Minus18 video discussing the importance of Friday 28 August’s Wear it Purple Day, and a movie afternoon commencing at 5.30pm which will be co-ordinated by the Community captains, Rheanna Senn and Charlie Bavage.
And a final example of a modified program is the Morning Movement livestream! Three times a week, the Health and Physical Education staff guide the Carey community through an invigorating 7.45am exercise session to get your body up and moving! Read more about the adapted Health and PE program, and stay active!
Frédérique Petithory
Acting Deputy Head of Senior School – Student Learning
