Learning from home...
Nic Ross, Principal of NCW, gives us an insight into how we have been dealing with a temporary closure and virtually educating our students.
How are we ensuring that students are still able to learn whilst school is closed?
Whilst the College is closed and lessons are being delivered remotely, the staff of NCW have provided a full timetable of lessons. This means the school day starts at 8.30am every day and goes right through to 4pm. All subjects are delivering online and face to face. Although it’s not the same as being in the classroom, it does mean that our students are not missing their learning.
How are we keeping spirits high amongst our school community?
To ensure the students (and staff) are kept in good spirits, we are trying to keep in touch as much as possible. We are still having three assemblies every week and are making sure there are lots of activities, clubs and fun events to be involved in. We’ve had quizzes, colouring club, music rehearsals and tech club to name just a few.
Key workers and house staff have also made contact with their students.
Are there things that are working really well?
Each student finds that different elements of the provision works for them. Some students thrive with the online learning and have flourished, gaining independence with each lesson. For others, the 1-1 contact made by staff and their peers helps support their feeling of wellbeing and connectedness.
Have there been any challenges?
The main challenge is trying to learn/teach/communicate on the end of a computer screen. It is just not the same as being face to face with peers or colleagues. Some students and staff find the isolation difficult and keeping morale going is quite challenging.
The whole process also relies on the technology being effective!…
How are we keeping a strong level of communication between school and parents?
During this period at home, the Parents’ Forum has been able to meet on line and some parents are keeping in close contact with staff. The parents have been kept informed of changes to the risk assessment and plans for our return.
We are really looking forward to being back in College shortly!
For full details of how we adapted teaching and learning during the pandemic, visit our Virtual NCW page.
What do our students say?
