Emotions run high when families, schools and those involved in National decision making discuss matters around schools opening and closing. The passionate arguments from all sides speak directly to everyone’s intent: keeping our precious, little ones safe. 

Triangle of support 

Everyday this is front of mind for our teachers at Nova Pioneer. Our concern for safety is for all our children, those at home and at school. What has been clear, is that we do not carry this burden alone. During this time, the value of the ‘triangle of support’ (student at the top, anchored by the solid base of support provided by both parents and teachers) has been so apparent. Our Greater Together spirit has been so critical.  

As school reopened, a number of our students returned to a somewhat different campus. New routines and procedures, different classrooms, unfamiliar desk arrangements and absent friends could have proved unsettling for our little Novaneers (some emerging from home for the first time in a little over 3 months). However, the power of the triangle has made this transition to our ‘new normal’ so seamless and the bright smiles (under colourful masks) are a testament to this. 

Hugs, kisses and high fives

It is so special to see parents take a moment at drop off, to chant and sing last reminders, counting them off on their hands: ‘wear your mask, wash your hands, keep socially distant, and have an awesome day!’ Hugs, kisses and high fives in the confines of each car, relaxes the students before getting out and beginning the walk up to the screening. Even our littlest Novaneers come bouncing up the ramp with such confidence and independence, encouraged all the way by their welcoming teachers, as their parents are no longer able to walk them to class.

Social Distancing

Temperature checks and morning check-ins have become a special time for one-on-one chats with the Deans and School Leader. A moment to get to know each other a little better and allay any niggling fears at the start of each day. Our teachers skillfully manage social distancing while still creating a warm, ‘we are better together’, learning environment. Our Operations team have thought of everything, helping our little ones with markers and reminders all over our school so we can all keep safe! And then there is playtime! It has been so joyful to watch our students and teachers engage in safe play. The squeals of happiness and delight fill the spaces between us created by social distancing. 

Celebrating our students

At the top of this triangle are our heroes. We celebrate our students for their resilience, their encouragement of each other and their constant strive towards adhering to these new rules. It has been amazing to watch them adjust and cope and still come back each day, eager to learn and play. During such a time, our students are a reminder of hope and optimism and the power of a collective goal. We can be safe together!