It is hard to comprehend that 11 weeks ago we began Term 2 with everyone learning from home. Since then we have completed many hours of remote learning, transformed our school site to promote distancing and hygiene requirements, transitioned back to on site classes, adapted our sport and music programs and started to embrace our new “normal”.

What a joy it has been to have all the girls back on site this week. For most, being back in physical classrooms is a great relief. The majority of students managed to complete all work set during the remote learning period and have moved easily back into the rhythm of being in classes.

The sound of youthful chatter and laughter is increasing each day at Lowther Hall as the girls gradually return to Leslie Road. Now that a little more “normality” and routine has settled in, we can turn our attention to matters beyond the immediate challenges we are facing within our school gates.

​This week it has been joyous to once again hear the sound of girls in the grounds and buildings of Lowther Hall as we have welcomed our Kindergarten, Year 1, Year 2, Year 12 and some Year 11 students back on site. Girls have adjusted seamlessly to the new routines of sanitising, handwashing, temperature testing and distancing and have very much enjoyed seeing each other and their teachers again.

​In my Year 8 class last week, we reflected on blessings – and even wrote some of our own. Similarly in my Year 7 Tangara class, we have been reflecting on the people we are thankful for who have supported us throughout the last few months.

​This week our remote learning has continued and I have enjoyed visiting many Raymond House girls in their Home Groups every morning. Many girls across the School have been preparing for Mother’s Day in different ways.

​This week has seen the re-introduction of the cocurricular program in “remote” mode and we have received a great deal of positive feedback from girls and families about the joy of participating in their regular activities. I know that girls have been up early running, dancing and playing their instruments and I am sure that this has brought a great deal of colour and movement to households!

​This week I have felt privileged to be able to touch base with so many families across the School during the Raymond House and Senior School Learning Conferences. It has been wonderful to “see” parents and girls and share our experiences of separation and remote learning.

​What an amazing start we have had to this very unusual Term 2! Thank you to all the girls, parents and staff who have embraced the new platforms and approaches in our improved and evolving remote learning model.