About 60 final year students returned to school on Friday following three weeks of remote learning, and gathered at lunchtime for a barbecue where they received a pot plant from the school.

Student Macie Taylor said the gesture helped her focus on something at home away from the stress of studies.

"By giving us something to care for, it shows the importance that it's not only good to care for ourselves but other things," Macie said.

The year 12 student took the plant home and has planted it within sight of her bedroom window.

Many students say their motivation suffered most while away from their peers, and Macie said since returning focusing has become easier.

"With online schooling you don't get as much workload but it feels like you have 10 times more than at school, it's just harder to learn," she said.

Kayla Neave, also a year 12, said being around classmates again was helping her feel confident leading into the final stretch before exams in late October.

"Talking over the phone just isn't enough sometimes," Kayla said.

Since returning to the classroom Kayla has been surprised with how much she learned during the weeks spent at home.

"I preserved because I knew we were nearing the end," she said.

"Being back at school I'm noticing a growth in school work as well."

Kayla said the plants carried a simple message for year 12 students persisting through stop-start periods of remote learning.

"It was a symbol of hope and growth for us," she said.

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