PARENTS and carers have been reassured that there is “no pressure” on them to perform to the same standard as teachers whilst home-schooling.
“There is no pressure from us – we do not expect parents to be teachers – be kind to yourself,” said CEO of the White Horse Federation, Dr Nicholas Capstick, during an online broadcast about ‘lockdown learning’.
Parents and carers were told to instead encourage their children to engage with the online learning being delivered by schools and to give thier children “space to enjoy the learning”.
It was also suggested that parents try to create a daily routine for children – getting dressed and ready for school – and to encourage physical activity before and after school and during regular breaks from lessons.
“Make the experience as fun, active and as ‘real’ as possible,” suggested Dr Capstick.
The CEO also explained that the trust understood that keeping children engaged all day online looking at a screen is a “struggle” and that work was being done to explore how teachers could introduce “brain breaks” to encourage students to be physical and move around.
Teachers will also look for more opportunities for ‘active learning’ – which gives students an opportunity to think about, talk about, and process course material – rather than ‘passive learning’ – which involves students listening and absorbing information from their teachers.
During the broadcast, representatives of the White Horse Federation – which manages over 30 schools in the south-west including eight in Melksham – also explained that student welfare has “never been higher” on their agenda.
According to Dr Capstick, wellbeing and mental health problems can be “amplified” during lockdown and he reassured parents and carers that staff that look after the emotional and social welfare of students, will continue to offer support during lockdown.
Dr Capstick encouraged parents and carers to contact their school if they notice that their child is struggling or “not themselves”.
“Talk to us before it reaches crisis point,” said Dr Capstick.
The CEO also discouraged parents from airing their worries on social media before talking to their school.
“Social media chatter is not helpful,” said Dr Capstick. “Give us the opportunity to put things right.”
