Life in COVID–19

The COVID-19 crisis has swept through the entire world for most of 2020, creating an unparalleled wave of uncertainty and gloom. Educational institutions, from pre-schools through to universities, have experienced sudden and unprecedented disruption. In Singapore, schools had to shift to Home-Based Learning from 8 April to 1 June 2020 and a Blended Learning Experience from 1-28 June 2020. Teachers and students had to familiarize themselves with new ways of virtual learning and becoming self-directed learners. Studying from home and video conferencing have become part of the new norms that many have had to adapt to – our students and teachers included.

Since Phase 2 (29 June 2020), lessons in schools have resumed under a new normal. Safe management measures in schools continue to keep our students safe, such as mandatory wearing of masks, daily temperature-taking, social distancing, increased personal hygiene, regular wipe-down routines of high-touch surfaces and reduced intermingling between classes and levels. Their smiles may be hidden behind masks, but from the crinkles of the students’ eyes and the spring in their steps, it was clear that students still enjoyed coming to school and learning with their friends. The COVID-19 crisis has been a challenge, but it can also be a time for new opportunities in learning and innovation. We are stronger together!