This year has thrown unexpected twists and turns into the world of learning, where schools had to quickly adapt to a fully-modified online curriculum throughout term two.

Through all the uncertainty, Horsham College leaders said students, with help from teachers and parents, rose to the challenge and conquered online learning. 

Year-12 students Connor Klemm and Jorrdan Weir are planning a memorable finish to their schooling after working remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions, in their final year of school.

The VCE students said they battled through the online learning challenge with the vision to get their ATAR and get into tertiary education next year. 

They said they jumped into their schooling head-first, taking any opportunity that came their way. 

In their five years at the college, the students have taken part in the school’s annual play production, travelled overseas and played in the school band. 

Jorrdan said she cherished her time at the college. 

The student leader plans to study a bachelor’s degree in nursing next year.

Jorrdan said she had actually benefitted from the massive changes to the curriculum. 

“It is not what I pictured, but I’m actually really happy with year 12 so far,” she said. 

“I have really enjoyed remote learning. I have found that I have become more independent and have been able to take more time to really consolidate my learning.”

Jorrdan said the diverse experiences, including travelling to America, would stick with her forever.  “I made many new friends overseas who I talk to often,” she said.

“I got to go to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and stayed with a host family in Seattle for 10 days. It was an amazing experience.

“I was part of the college band for five years playing a clarinet. I got the chance to go to recording sessions and record our music with students from other schools, which I really enjoyed.

“I also performed for many schools and played in some eisteddfods, which helped to boost my confidence.” 

Connor plans to study biology or allied health beyond year 12. 

He said his teachers and the schools’ support team guided him to make those big decisions. 

“Bonita O’Brien works in wellbeing and has really helped me out,” he said.

“Year 12 is a stressful year for many students, and she has always been there to have a chat and provide support.

“The careers team are ready to answer whatever questions or concerns I might have about my future.”

Connor said he also attained many new skills at the college, including learning a new language. 

“I was lucky enough to be involved with a Rotary Youth Exchange to Germany in 2019 and the support from the school meant I had an easy transition into coming back after one year away,” he said.

“I now study VCE German and I think it’s great that school provides me with the opportunity to use the language I learnt.” 

Connor said he would take the memories he made at the college with him for life. 

“My best memory of high school is being involved with the production every year – which has made me a more confident, outgoing and motivated person,” he said. 

“I have also made lifelong friends and memories.

“Year 12 is not how we thought it would be, but we still have lots of contact with our friends and teachers.

“Year 12 is definitely what you make of it.” 

The entire May 27, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire May 27, 2020 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!