COMMENT: Being a student in lockdown

Friday 03 April 2020

In just a few weeks, the world has changed for everyone - not least the Bailiwick's students who have had to adapt to a whole new way of learning, so we're launching a new series of guest columns where they can tell us what it's really like, starting with 13-year-old Emma Bertrand from the Ladies College.

Emma explained for Express how she's bee coping with the lockdown so far, and she discussed some of the challenges she has faced:

I am in Year Nine at The Ladies' College and usually enjoy playing the violin, squash and surfing.

Pictured: Emma is in Year Nine at The Ladies College (image from school's website).

It's a bit odd not being at school because we still have to do all of our work, but without being surrounded by classmates. Teachers are setting all of the work online, which made it very hard to do at the beginning as the technology was confusing. The internet is also very slow because my parents are working from home, so the WiFi struggles.

It can be a bit boring, not being able to go out and see my friends, and it's getting pretty annoying being with my family all the time!

I've written myself a routine for every day, but I don't always stick to it.

I've enjoyed not having to wake up early for school, because I can do all the lessons in my pyjamas if I wanted to, and I like being able to take breaks whenever I need in-between online lessons. I also get to look after the school's bearded dragon!

Pictured: Emma is caring for the school's pet bearded dragon while the island is in lockdown.

I'm being set a lot of work, which is keeping me busy, but my sister hasn't been getting as much, which is annoying!

The weather has been sunny so I've been able to go on lots of walks. However, because we're not allowed out, I really miss the clubs that I usually go to - and I'm snacking a lot because I'm bored.

Overall, I think I prefer schooling from home, but I do miss my friends and being able to go out and do things.

If you know a student, of any age, who would like to write an article for us about their experiences during the lockdown, please email editor@bailiwickexpress.com.