IVANHOE LEARNERS – THE FAMILY PERSPECTIVE Two Ivanhoe families discuss their unique experience of navigating the final years of school amid the challenges of a pandemic.
The O’Grady Family - Katelyn How have your parents and family supported you through school, particularly during the last two years? The past two years have been extremely difficult during COVID-19 and studying remotely, however, my parents have supported me in many ways such as encouraging me to keep going no matter the circumstances. In addition, they recommended I should be involved in co-curricular opportunities to develop other life skills.
What is your fondest memory of your time at school?
The 2021 Music Showcase. I was not only able to perform to the best of my ability but was also able to improve my leadership skills by encouraging and supporting the cast and crew. I also really enjoyed Year 10 camp as it was one of the first opportunities, I had to get to know my cohort and I found the 24 hour solo a great opportunity to reflect.
What are your future plans?
I hope to become a doctor by post-graduate studies, and I am excited for what is to come in the future. I am grateful for the skills I have learnt, and I am so grateful for the amazing teachers who have supported me throughout my time at Ivanhoe.
Katelyn’s Parents Narelle and Phill How did you support your child at school during the pandemic?
During the pandemic we kept the communication open and tried to listen to the concerns of everyone. From sufficient home internet (especially for Netflix and other gaming devices) to trying to find a place for everyone to have their own space to work or study. It was difficult as a parent
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to reassure our children in a period of uncertainty, so we went back to basics and remained positive while looking at what we were grateful for. Living next to a National Park and adopting a Siberian husky were a bonus in keeping the exercise alive!
What are your fondest memories of your daughter’s time at Ivanhoe?
We enjoyed watching Katelyn thrive and take every opportunity to be involved with all the co-curricular activities (from debating to choir) and making new friendships. Probably our most special memory was seeing her perform in the Music Showcase in 2021. We have watched her journey on stage for many years as a Young Australian Broadway Chorus member however, the School Music Showcase seemed so much more important during the pandemic, especially to see them return to a sense of normality. We loved seeing her perform, but especially loved seeing her lead and coach the younger cast members and happily assist staff.
What are your hopes and dreams for Katelyn?
Katelyn changed schools in Year 10 to follow her dreams and then unfortunately the pandemic arrived which meant working remotely for significant periods in Year 11 and 12. This was a difficult time given friendships were only just new, and the co-curricular/ leadership opportunities were limited or different. However, her determination and commitment shone through, and she never lost sight of her ambitions...well maybe just a few times (but who didn’t?). We know if Katelyn can survive 2020 and 2021 and complete VCE during a pandemic and come out smiling, which she did, then she can achieve anything she puts her mind to. We hope Katelyn seizes every opportunity, but mostly we hope she enjoys the journey along the way.
Celebrating the Class of 2021 – Young people of character
