I knew Somersfield would offer me a steep learning curve and it has not disappointed. I love any journey of discovery and joining a school and unpacking what makes it tick is definitely invigorating. The more I come to learn about Somersfield, the more excited I am about the future we can build together.
What I had not anticipated on this learning journey was the need to try and understand the government’s approach to Covid and its impact on schools and in person learning. I have no doubt that their intentions are good - they want to keep us safe. Yet the virulence of the Delta variant has posed problems that they have never faced before and their reaction has been to rely on past practice versus developing new strategies. Applying blanket quarantines - particularly on teachers - even when the individuals are fully vaccinated and have respected all protocols including mask wearing, physical distancing and frequent hand washing, is paralysing. The system as it stands is not working and the government’s approach needs a fundamental rethink, including allowing us the opportunity to carry out weekly testing of all staff as a means to safeguard the community and thereby keep staff members at work.
I am working closely with my fellow independent school heads and the Minister of Education to put our position forward to the government. We are all in the same boat and facing similar frustrations so hopefully our collective voices will be heard. I will keep you updated.
For now, you have my assurance and that of my team that we will do everything we can to protect in-person learning, particularly for our youngest learners. All evidence shows that the social and communal aspects of school are as important for learning and personal growth as the subject curricula, and this must be protected.
Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding - and for hanging on during this Covid roller coaster ride.
Happy Friday!
Peter
p.s. I am absolutely loving the opportunity to interact with the students. Two highlights of the week - sitting with the Bluebirds’ for circle time; and meeting the DP2s and challenging them to make our community better through their example, efforts and initiatives.
