The recurrent theme in this week’s readings and responses is around the idea of sustenance and the things that bring life. In the first reading (Exodus 16: 2-4, 12-15) and the Gospel (John 6: 24 -35), there is a reference to the bread that came from heaven for the Israelites to eat whilst they wandered through the desert. The people were complaining that they had been abandoned and were hungry and God responded by giving them bread. In the first reading, this came in the form of manna from heaven and was food that settled on the land. In the Gospel, this food was in the form of Jesus who came from heaven to bring life to those who took Him in. The comparison to us in these times of remote learning is in the form of isolation that potentially drains our life-giving connections. We have every right to be concerned and look for support, but we again can be assured that as Christians we are not alone in the journey. In recent weeks, I have spoken to many of our teachers and support officers who have been contacting families to encourage and offer support. Our efforts are obviously limited but provide a vital link to members of our community. This link is based on the teachings of Jesus that love of neighbour is essential to everything we do. I encourage parents to make contact with your child’s pastoral advisor, teacher or year coordinator to let them know how things are going. We will continue to make contact where we can.

As you would now be aware, we have been informed that remote learning will continue for our Year 7 – 11 students until at least the end of August. Year 12 students will be returning on Monday August 16 with their Trial HSC exams beginning on Wednesday August 18. We have decided to give our Year 12s the opportunity to meet with their teachers on the Monday and Tuesday so that they can meet face to face and ask questions regarding their subjects and issues or content that may be concerning them. This will also enable teachers to give last minute advice and direction. The decision was made to continue with their Trial exams as the experience they gain from these and opportunities for feedback and improvement is invaluable in their preparation for the HSC. More information for Year 12 will be distributed over the next week.

Our Year 7 – 11 students remain high in our thoughts at this time. I thank the staff who are working tirelessly in difficult circumstances trying to ensure students continue the learning relevant to their subject. I have asked staff to inform parents if they feel your child is not engaging in remote learning. I recognise that you know your child well and that you will support them in the necessary learning. If you feel that your child is struggling with the workload, please email their teacher to let them know. It is difficult for the staff to judge how well students are working when they are not present, and the students may not appear to be submitting work or participating in lessons. Please know that our goal is to support the students in achieving their best and that our aim is to work in tandem with you on this.  

As always, a very big thank you to the staff, students and parents for your flexibility and ongoing support during remote learning.