Jacob's teaching assistant helps students to communicate with his Music teacher online. (Photo: Wu Jialin from Southern Metropolitan Newspaper)

On May 11th, Jacob, a Grade 6 student at the AISG who was originally from the US, enjoyed his first day back at school after having been studying online for the past 3 months. Jacob was scheduled to have his new semester begin on February 3rd. Due to the pandemic, AISG decided to start providing online courses from February 4th.

At 7:30 AM, Jacob filled out the health management form, handed it to the staff, and entered the campus after passing through an infrared temperature check at the school gate. He has to wear a mask, and maintain social distancing rules with his friends and teachers. During his first class, AISG Middle School Principal Rick Bunnell explained the epidemic prevention measures and what changes that would entail on campus to the students.

Due to the pandemic, some teachers and students are currently unable to return to school. As a result the teaching assistants helped Jacob and his students to communicate with teachers through online live streaming platforms.

Jacob also found his lunchtime has changed. The canteen staff now pack set meals for both teachers and students, which are convenient and reduce the chance of transmission or infection. They currently can't talk to each other during lunch time.

When talking about COVID-19, Jacob said frankly, "I am not really scared about the virus because China is doing such a great job. Social distancing and wearing masks. They are preventing any new coronavirus cases (from arising) here in GZ".

Planning: Zhang Ying, Chen Weibin, Wang Kai

Reporters: Hu Nan, Wu Jialin, Zoey (Intern)

Video: Wu Jialin

English editors: Monica Liu, Simon Haywood