The Home Front

Being a history teacher it is hard not to draw comparisons between what is happening now and what has happened in the past. From blackouts and curfews to rationing and the ‘wartime spirit’ there are many similarities and differences that can be drawn.  Of course, unlike world war two there are very few planes flying overhead these days and we are not taking cover in air raid shelters at the bottom of our garden.  However, in true ‘wartime spirit’ we are all doing our bit to contribute towards staying safe and finding new ways to say thank you to those who are on the frontline.  As of yesterday, there were more people who volunteered for the NHS to tackle the coronavirus than volunteered for Kitchener at the start of world war one.

The Home Front has also taken on a whole new meaning.  Quite literally, we are fighting this virus from our homes.  We understand that this presents new challenges, especially around Home Learning.  Like any emergency measures that are implemented, without the benefit of hindsight, we are learning as we go.  We know from some of you that some of our pupils are struggling with the amount of work that is being set and online programmes are struggling to cope with the spike in users.  At this moment in time all we ask is that our pupils do their best and maintain a balance between school work and extra-curricular activities; getting fresh air, some physical exercise and spending quality time with family members has never been so important.  We will certainly not be issuing virtual detentions for incomplete work!

In line with ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’ we are carrying on with our ‘Hot Chocolate Fridays’.  All of those nominated will receive one of our celebration postcards through their post box.  Here are a few from this week:

I would like to nominate Ella Coalville please. She submitted an extended piece of writing on google classroom in which I provided feedback. In the next few minutes Ella had resubmitted her work with purple pen improvements. I had not told her to do this but believe this shows a fantastic attitude and responsibility for own learning and progress.

Florence Worthy in year 7 who is getting to grips with google classroom so well.

Eve Thirwell year 10 who always works hard and told me my audio lesson was as good as Mr Bruff 🙂

Please can I nominate Luke Brown & Bev Brown for hot choc for helping me set up Ever Learner (e-learning) and trying out the programme for feedback.

As co-headteachers we don’t normally get to nominate.  However, these are not normal times and so we would like to nominate all of our Hastings Family for the courage and support they have shown over this last week;

To our teachers and support staff – thank you for setting work and for keeping the school going.

To our parents and carers – thank you for embracing Home Learning and keeping your children at home so that we can all stay safe.

To our pupils – thank you for being amazing, for staying in touch and for trying your best.

Stay safe and best wishes,

Miss Bradley