Head of Senior School - Edition 9 - 2020

As this is the final eNews for Semester 1, it would be appropriate to reflect on what has happened this year, along with what has not happened. But what has impressed me and made be proud to be part of Westminster is how our community has reacted to the current situation.

While it is a fact that over the course of this semester many of the normal activities have not been able take place due to the restrictions that have been imposed because of COVID-19, it has provided the opportunity for all of us to look at different ways of doing things. The students have shown that they value being together and have embraced the use of technology to connect with each other. Some of the things they have done include online Chapels, Podcasts, virtual Tutor and House Meetings and our online talent show, “Westminster’s Got Talent”. All of these have been successful in bringing students together, giving messages and having fun with each other. I’m confident that all the students have learned much from what they have experienced and built greater resilience to deal with life when things do not go according to plan.

The staff have also been very active in providing a positive learning experience and many of the resources they were preparing for teaching remotely have still been used to enhance the learning of the students in the classroom. Staff have also invested more time supporting those students who have been away from school to ensure that they are keeping up their studies.

As the Government begins to relax the restrictions that have been in place, I look forward to Term 3 when we will hopefully be able to meet in larger groups and enjoy performances from our dancers, actors and musicians - even if the audiences may still be limited. The return of inter-school sport from the beginning of Term 3 will provide the opportunity for many students to satisfy their competitive side.

The progress of construction with both the Inquiry and Innovation Hub and the Sports Pavilion has provided a level of excitement among the staff and students as their final look is becoming clearer.

I want to thank all staff, students and parents for their support in the changes that have had to be implemented during this semester.

David Wallage
Head of Senior School