Strengthening Connection and Community

Highlighting the many ways schools across the Diocese connect and strengthen their engagement with their school community. (24 August 2021)

During Learning from Home, our schools found innovative ways to create connection and belonging with their students. 

Mary Help of Christians Primary School, Sawtell, hosted a virtual Science Fair for Kindergarten to Year 2. The Fair coincided with National Science Week and the theme of Food. Students were challenged to apply scientific methods and research at home with their families acting as lab assistants. 

‘I loved how I got to see the mould grow on the bread that I had touched with dirty hands. I’m always going to wash my hands before I eat from now on!’ said Year 2 student Matilda.

‘We had so much fun creating our veggie superhero. It was a great opportunity to get involved with science at home. There are no failures in Science, only discoveries,’ said parent Emma.

St Joseph’s Regional College, Port Macquarie, challenged students to show off their baking skills as part of a series of Wellbeing Challenges that focused on creativity. Students had a week to bake any item. Seventy-five students submitted a range of delicious baked goods on Google Classroom and commented on each submission.

‘A great initiative Mrs Wallis. The next challenge may have to be one that assists us to get rid of the pounds we put on sharing the baking. A great community initiative,’ commented one parent.

St Mary’s Primary School, Casino, Principal John O’Brien created #MrOBriensChallenge. Students have posted videos of heartwarming and fun messages ranging from the importance of community and belonging to ensuring that we all get toilet paper! The challenge highlighted creativity and imagination of students as they took delight in entertaining their community. 

‘What a touching and heartfelt video. It’s a great way to get a message across,’ commented one parent. 

Creating a connected community during Learning from Home through creative, fun and engaging activities can help the whole school community during this time of uncertainty. We look forward to sharing more great ideas as Learning from Home continues.