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Learning@Home – Senior School

Dear Barney,

It goes without saying that we hoped not to be producing another Learning@Home brochure. However, it gives me great pride to share with you the 2021 version of our exciting programme:

You will see in the pages that follow that the foundations of last year’s successful programme remain in place; namely the focus on engagement, balance and sustainability, as we embark upon this new period of online learning. In addition, it also reflects feedback we received at the conclusion of the last lockdown, and my thanks to the many parents who completed the ISC questionnaire. The feedback was extremely positive, in particular when compared to other independent schools nationwide. Still, we strive to improve and we have subsequently made adjustments, specifically focused on the online timetable. The key lessons from the first lockdown highlighted the importance of a balance between screen time and online engagement, with assignments set to complete between a structured timetable of live lessons. Research into online teaching and learning strongly argues against full days of consecutive live lessons without time for reflection or consolidation of knowledge.

Furthermore, this time around, both the teaching staff and the students have experience of online learning, coupled with an increased technological competency and literacy. Within School, since the start of the academic year, all classes in every department, in every year group, have been established on MS Teams. This has been supplemented further by the investment in an upgraded infrastructure and devices for each member of teaching staff. We have done all we can to prepare for this eventuality so as to ensure our children continue to benefit from the breadth of a Barney education.

On the topic of breadth, you will also see the incredibly long list of opportunities that are available via the enrichment, sporting and music activities. We hope the pupils approach these with an open mind and a desire to really engage and take advantage of such a varied programme.

Finally, all pupils have received and have been reminded of the significant support network available to them, details of which can be found within this brochure.

With all best wishes,

Tony Jackson

Headmaster