Remote learning
Dear Parents and Carers
Well done to everyone for surviving the stresses of the first day of remote learning.
You will be aware from the national media today that there has been significant issues which have prevented both pupils and staff from having full access to TEAMS today. This is something that has affected the whole country and is not a school or local authority issue. This has been very frustrating for everyone but is completely outwith the control of school staff or those at home.
Despite these challenges, there has been a good level of engagement today. Please do not be discouraged from continuing your engagement in a way that is manageable for you at home.
With continued practice, pupils and staff will become more adept at navigating their class teams and making use of the functions it offers. We understand that this is easier with older pupils.
Teachers are using a mixed delivery model including meeting live with children, setting independent tasks to be completed and instruction via pre-recorded teaching materials. There have been issues with the size of some of these pre-recorded resources and some teachers have set up youtube channels to post these resources on. Pre-recorded resources should allow pupils to access teaching and learning materials at a time that suits the household. It is only the live meetings which need to be joined at a set time.
There have also been some issues uploading completed work. Teachers are looking into the best ways for pupils to upload their work tasks. The teachers will work out what works best for their classes and communicate how your child should do this.
This is a very steep learning curve for everyone. Teachers have had only three days to plan the learning as well as finding ways of communicating the learning to classes in a way that is manageable for the age group. Please stick with it and help us to find ways that work well for our families.
This is a brand new way of working. Everyone is facing new challenges and there are bound to be a number of teething problems as we all find our way. The important thing is for us all to keep trying and to continue to support each other. If the technology fails or is causing great stress, take a break and return later. The tasks and resources will still be there for you when you need them. If you can, try to make joining the meetings your priority as these are arranged for fixed times.
Thank you for your continued support, acknowledgement of the work involved, your ongoing perseverance and let’s hope for fewer technical challenges as we progress.
Regards
Gillian Matthews
Head Teacher
Muirhouse Primary and Nursery Class
66 Barons Road
Motherwell
ML1 2NB
01698 274995
