COVID-19: Casula Public School is delivering remote learning during coronavirus pandemic

This southwest Sydney school is catering for all students with its online learning during COVID-19, using a special translation programs to help communicate with parents from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Casula Public School students Baylee Dwyer and her sister Bronte Dwyer use their computer for their school lessons. Picture: Angelo Velardo

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Students from diverse cultural backgrounds are making use of digital learning tools in the age of coronavirus, including apps that help translate resources into different languages for children and parents alike.

Casula Public School principal Robyn Evans said the majority of students spoke two languages and the school also had a number of new arrivals.

As schools continue to navigate the challenges of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, staff at Casula Public are turning to a number of digital platforms to engage with students from a range of backgrounds.

Casula Public School staff have been engaging with students and parents through a number of digital learning platforms. Picture: Angelo Velardo

The school has made use of interpreter services and the Seesaw education app, which can translate notes into different languages so parents who don’t speak English can access them.

Staff members who speak other languages have also been communicating with parents who have difficulties speaking English.

Teachers have also engaged with students and parents through Google Classroom, email and hard copy learning packs.

Families having trouble accessing technology will also be supported with Wi-Fi dongles and tablets from the school.

“It’s been really a collaborative approach from the school to know the children are still learning,” Ms Evans said.

Staff have also developed learning packs. Picture: Angelo Velardo

“I think across the state and certainly at my school my teachers have been amazing. The learning they’ve undertaken to get this operation online has been incredible.

“The department has been working tirelessly to ensure we’ve got remote learning strategies and packages for staff.”

Ms Evans said the situation had brought out the best in people “in many ways” because “they’re solution-focused”.

“My staff have been incredible in the way they have conducted their teaching practice so we’re catering for students online and face-to face.”