Recently, there has been media coverage of social media use by young teenagers. In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our children’s social lives. While these platforms offer wonderful opportunities for connection and creativity, they also present challenges that require our collective attention and guidance.
As a school community, we believe that keeping our children safe online is a shared responsibility. While parents play the primary role in supervising and guiding their children’s social media use, we are committed to providing comprehensive education and support to help our students navigate the digital world safely.
Our school takes a proactive approach to digital safety through:
– Regular sessions in our wellbeing programme focusing on responsible online behaviour
– Visits from Police Liaison Officers who provide expert guidance on cyber safety
– Partnerships with external organisations that deliver specialised programmes
– Parent information sessions to help you stay informed about online risks and safety strategies
Based on expert advice, we encourage parents to implement the following practices:
Supervised Access
– Keep devices in shared family spaces
– No devices in bedrooms at night
– Regular audits of social media friends lists
– Monitor posts for appropriate content and behaviour
Balanced Lifestyle
– Set designated device-free times
– Encourage alternative activities
– Create opportunities for face-to-face social interaction
Important Reminders
– Social media platforms require users to be 13 years or older
– School devices and platforms (like Google Apps for Education) are monitored and age-appropriate
– Students should never share photos in school uniform on personal social media
– All cyber-bullying, including exclusion and harassment, is taken seriously
– The creation or sharing of inappropriate images can have serious legal consequences
We encourage open dialogue between parents and children about online activities. If you notice concerning behaviour or need support, please don’t hesitate to contact our wellbeing team. We can connect you with appropriate resources and support services.
For additional guidance, we recommend:
– eSafety Commissioner’s website (esafety.gov.au)
– Setting up parental controls on devices
– Regular family discussions about online experiences
– Monitoring screen time and setting healthy boundaries
Remember, our goal is to help our young people develop into responsible digital citizens who can safely enjoy the benefits of our connected world.
Mr Paul Rikmanis
Head of Secondary