Media Release: Distance Learning at CST Schools

Calvin, Emmanuel, Channel and Northern Christian Schools move to a hybrid ‘distance learning’ model

Christian Schools Tasmania operates four Independent Christian schools in Greater Hobart supporting over 1,000 students and employing 180 staff:

  • Calvin Christian School, Kingston – Kinder to Year 12

  • Emmanuel Christian School, Rokeby – Kinder to Year 10

  • Channel Christian School, Margate – Kinder to Year 6

  • Northern Christian School, Bridgewater – Kinder to Year 6

CST schools will remain open in accorandance with Public Health Service official advice.

From Wednesday 1 April, CST Schools will be moving to a hybrid distance learning model to better support teachers, students and families to manage the ongoing educational needs of students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Regardless of whether a student is at home or at one of our schools in the classroom, all students will be working on their school’s distance learning program. This will ensure that our teachers are able to prepare and deliver just the one program and that no student will be disadvantaged by either being at home or being at school,” said Scott Parnham, CST Board Chair.

“We believe that this model best supports families who need to be at work by providing supervision of their children who will be doing the same distance learning programs as their peers at home, but within the classroom at school. A reduction in student numbers at the schools will allow us to provide greater social distancing as we continue to maintain the highest level of cleaning and hygiene.”

Christian Schools Tasmania CEO, David Gillman said that “with more and more students absent from schools, it was becoming increasingly challenging for schools and teaching staff to ensure that learning programs were being delivered on a daily basis in the classroom as well as providing continuity in teaching and learning for those students who are at home.“ 

Mr Gillman said CST’s focus is on the wellbeing of staff as well as students. “These new measures will also support our staff who can now focus on their distance learning program whilst being in a school environment that follows the social distancing guidelines set out for most other workplaces. This will enhance the safety and wellbeing of our teachers as they continue to deliver excellent Christian teaching and learning programs to students who continue to learn at home or at the school.”

For more information please contact:

David Gillman CEO — Christian Schools Tasmania