A new podcast series is helping parents of students at Matthew Flinders Anglican College navigate the turbulent education landscape that is ever-evolving in response to the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Titled Uncharted Waters: Conversations with the Principal, the weekly podcast shares conversations between Principal Stuart Meade and members of the College leadership team across the Primary and Secondary Schools.
The conversations are designed as simple ‘survival guides’ to help allay parents’ concerns about how student learning, health and wellbeing is being impacted by social distancing and remote learning.
“Our College leadership team is constantly researching the modifications to curriculum and assessment brought on by the pandemic scenario,” Stuart said.
“Our goal is to comprehend the state government changes as they arise so that we can adapt Flinders’ learning model to ensure our students continue to receive a quality education.
“I can appreciate that parents are worried about the potential impact of the changes to their child’s learning and academic results, in particular for senior students beyond graduation.
“This podcast is an opportunity to shed light on some of the complex topics being debated in the general media and also to respond to questions that parents and students are asking me directly.
“This is just one of the ways that we are aiming to inform and reassure parents and students about the way forward for our Flinders community.
“Our very experienced leadership staff care about every child in their sub-school and know how children of these ages are best supported, motivated and challenged.
“The perspectives and insights we have to share through these conversations will hopefully help parents feel better equipped themselves to support their children at this challenging time.
“These conversations will also explain how we as a College will guide our students through 2020 - a year that will never be forgotten!”
The podcast, of 15 to 20 minutes’ duration each, is available via the College website.
In the first episode, Stuart Meade speaks with Head of Senior School, Gary Davis about the government modifications to assessment for Year 11 and Year 12 students, as well as ideas for students to self-manage their remote learning.
Episode 2, features Head of Junior Primary Chris Curtain who shares ideas for successful remote learning with children in the Primary years, including tips on managing screen time, creating routines and giving children some control.
