It was lockdown 2.0, which meant teachers and schools had a better idea about what it all entailed compared to last year.

Yet on the flip side, the novelty of no school wore off for some students, adding an extra level of stress for some.

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Gum Flat Public School principal Margarete Coddington was pleasantly amazed at how their families took the challenge of lockdown learning head-on, while Macintyre High School principal Lindsay Paul thanked teachers and staff for all the extra work required.

Holy Trinity School principal Jillian Rainger looked forward to thank students face to face for all the effort the continued to put in despite being at home.

While they had some essential worker's children on site for some of the lockdown time, Mrs Coddington said everyone was "very excited for next week".

"This second time was easier, however the novelty wore off a lot quicker I think," Mrs Coddington laughed.

"I thank all of our families for taking responsibility, and also for being very dedicated for the learning from home period."

Being a smaller school meant they could touch base with their families on a weekly basis, but being a rural school also meant some students had to battle with poor reception.

"It was a bit tricky for some with mobile coverage, and there were a few who haven't been able to get online and do some activities, but we managed to send out hard copies of booklets, phone them in, and of course our parents came to pick up resources each Monday. "

For Holy Trinity teachers, the yen to connect face to face with students will finally be over.

"I think the reward will be for the teachers to commend them for what they have done learning at home," Mrs Rainger explained.

"And for students, and the reward will be to see their friends."

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But the challenges: "we are operating under level three restrictions so we will be watching how that goes, and see how we need to adapt.

Macintyre High School principal Lindsay Paul espoused his praise for his teachers and support staff, who had really put in the hard yards to make learning from home a success.

"We are excited that students will be able to come back on site," he said.

"I know it's only for a week and then we have the holidays, but it gives them a the chance to get back together face to face - catch up with friends, mates and teacher, and set a routine of being in the classroom.

"It's all positive."

Yet it won't be back to the grind as normal. Masks will have to be worn, and sport is still on the prohibited list.

"Some of the restrictions that we come back under limit some of the things the students really enjoy - sport will be different, there will be no excursions or field trips" Mr Paul lamented.

"But hopefully we can get back to level 2 restrictions which we were on before the lockdowns - hopefully before the end for the year."

While there had been positive feedback during the month that was, working from home was very trying for some, especially for parents who weren't in the office trying to school their children at home at the same time.

"Really I think just a congratulations to all of the teachers and the non-teaching staff for the way they've supported the learning from home operation," Mr Paul said.

"On one hand it can look like it's easier working from home but it's not - remote learning adds a lot of extra hours, so I congratulate and thank everyone for all they've done."

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