全校信息
Message from Mr. Alexander Thrower - Head of School
Dear HQIS Parents,
Since I last wrote to
you we have quickly shifted into online mode. It is not easy I know. Most of us
have experienced this pandemic through the prism of online life - video
meetings, constant messaging from colleagues, emails and phone calls. The
technology we have today is both a blessing and a curse, but our ability to
adapt and thrive is what makes us human beings. I know from History lessons
that social distancing once prevented children from learning. Today we can
connect teachers and students in a face to face meeting online, and allow them
to share tasks, resources, support and homework in a mostly seemless migration
from the physical classroom to virtual learning space.
It is not easy.The absence
of classmates and colleagues affects one's mood, and the natural rhythms of the
day can be disrupted. We decided to stick to the usual schedule - better for
everybody. A new normal perhaps. We also wanted to give students some breaks.
Lessons are a bit shorter. We wanted to give students some independent work.
That is also important. We shared ideas about keeping fit at home, because
staring at a screen for hours is not ideal. People need to stretch their limbs
and move about. We also decided that we wanted to see the faces and hear the
voices of students. This gives teachers the feedback they need as they develop
ideas and skills with the students. Students also learn that their input
matters and they have a voice in the meeting room.
We say a big 'Thank You' to the parents and others who help the students get ready for online classes and support them throughout the day. This can be a challenge we know. At some time in the future, your son or daughter will echo this but we can thank you for them!
Nobody knows for sure when we will be back in a classroom of bricks and mortar but we hope it is soon.
It is humbling to work with such great teachers and support staff. The professionalism they demonstrate is world class! In classrooms and offices - and also at home! I thank all my colleagues who work tirelessly behind the scenes to pull this all together, and especially the teachers who work directly with students in face to face and online classrooms. I am deeply impressed with their dedication.
Lastly, I thank you - the mums and dads. As teachers, support staff, administrators and leaders, we enter into a large family where every child matters and the people who choose to work in education have an overriding ambition to see children maximize their potential and find joy in learning. We always aim to provide a happy environment where young people can flourish. You trust us with that mission and our temporary measures, at this difficult time, are geared to maintaining that trust and giving your child the security, reassurance, and continuity they deserve. Lastly - enjoy being with your children while they are still closely part of your life. Difficult times - but maybe the source of happy memories.
Have a great weekend!
Alex Thrower
Head of School
25th, March 2022