Tips for students

If you are learning at home...

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Whether you like being at home or miss going to school, learning from home is a big change. You might feel strange, especially if you are not used to doing any schoolwork at home. This means you will need to change some things in your life so that you can learn from home. Here are some things to try out:

 

1. Choose a room or area. Remember – you will be studying there. What place/room in the house do you like? Try the dining table, the floor in the lounge area, or the patio.

2. Focus on learning. Keep the tv off and put your phone away. If there are too many distractions around you, talk to your parent about how to get rid of distractions.

3. Be responsible with your device. Spending too much time on your device may be harmful. Try doing work without it, until it is really needed.

4. Find the right routine. If you feel like you need more short breaks instead of two long breaks, tell your parents.

5. Be organised. Try setting time to do each task/goal or use a check-list to keep track of your work.

6. Use your breaks properly. This time gives you a chance to clear your mind and recharge. Have lunch or a snack, visit the bathroom, run around in the backyard or try some activities. This is your ‘fun time’ before you go back to learning.

7. Talk to your friends. Remember – use your breaktimes, since talking to friends is ‘fun time’. You can use a messaging or video calling app. Make sure your parents know when you are talking to friends.

8. Talk to your parents. Remember – they are trying to make learning at home easy for you and themselves. You should talk to each other and find out what works best for everyone.

9. If you are struggling, talk to someone. This includes your friends, your parents or family, your teacher, or your school counsellor or guidance officer. You might like the wellbeing page.

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Try out different things and talk to your parents about what works for you.

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If you do not have access to an electronic device, talk to your parents about what you can do: ask the school for a loan laptop or iPad, find an open library, or ask a friend or family member to borrow theirs. Alternatively, your school or teacher can provide printed bundle of learning material and worksheets. 

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​If you are going back to school...

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Going back to school can be tough, especially after being home for so long. Here are some tips to make going back to school easier.

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1. Remember to social distance! You might be excited to see your friends but remember to keep your distance – 1.5 metres!

2. Be aware that clubs and activities may not be active. This may mean that school events like assemblies can be cancelled.

3. Help out your parents. Work together to make some healthy snacks or pack lunch. The school tuckshop may be closed, so pack a bit extra in case you get hungry.

4. Make sure you have all your school supplies ready – this means pencils, pens, erasers, rulers, books and folders. It’s important not to share with others as this may spread germs.

5. Figure out a drop-off and pick-up plan. Talk to your parents/guardians and figure out the best times and places for before and after school.

6. Keep up your hygiene. Washing your hands before and after eating is very important. You might also like to ask your parent about using a mask or bringing your own sanitiser.

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Keep these things in mind when you go to school. It’s all about learning safely. 

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REMEMBER! If you are ever worried about your safety or have any concerns, here are some services that may be helpful.