Keeping the school community connected during lockdown

• What was your experience of online learning during lockdown?

At the start of lockdown I was quite nervous, but on the second day Mr Hindman [head teacher] sent a massive email explaining how it was going to work. For me home is for relaxation, so I did have to be disciplined. I’m in the upper sixth, studying towards A-levels in media studies, English language and psychology. Our teachers got online learning started really quickly – they were amazing. But even though we had discussions online I really missed actually being with people. That bit was hard.

• What other support did you find valuable?

All the staff came together to support pupils and were brilliant. For instance, the library had quizzes and ran an online book club. Mr Hindman sent out a daily email with a news update on what was happening with other pupils, and also a fact of the day. We really felt like we were connected. We also had a big video event for the School Captain positions; we had to do our presentations saying why we wanted to be School Captain. The whole school voted on our videos and chose the two captains. We also continued with P4C lessons, which are all about life skills and include things like mental health. There was always someone to talk to if you were struggling with mental health issues.

• It is World Teachers’ Day on Monday. What would you say to teachers and staff?

Pupils don’t always express how much they depend on their teachers, but I want to let them know that they really are valued. Everyone is really appreciated and all that they do does not go unnoticed. I think it is nice for teachers and to have that validation. I consider myself very lucky. Our teachers and school staff are amazing. So is our head. He had very big shoes to fill because everyone loved Mr Taunt [Austen Hindman took over in 2018], but we all love Mr Hindman. His presence is definitely felt – in a good way!

• What are your hopes for the future?

Hopefully university. I have had a lot of advice from teachers and also support with things like personal statements. Eventually I would like to go into marketing and advertising.

• What will you take away from your schooldays?

I have grown in confidence because Luffa has taught me to be the best version of myself; to take opportunities and always to give 100 per cent. Our motto is ‘Always our best because everyone matters’. That really has sunk in. I have some new friends who joined as sixth formers and they came here for the teaching and for the sense of community. We pride ourselves on our sense of community.

• What is down time for you?

I have a part-time job in the café at Hillier’s Garden Centre in Bosham, but when I’m not working I enjoy watching TV shows and hanging out with my friends.

• Talk is increasing of further lockdowns in the UK. What do you think of the situation? Join the Big Conversation and have your say on everything from healthcare to how the pandemic has affected you personally and how we make our communities stronger.