Cyber Safety Initiatives
This week at school, we have been proactive in ensuring our students have the skills to navigate their future world and their use of technology. All Secondary school students attended workshops run by our Police Youth Engagement Officers addressing the critical issue of cyber safety.
I would encourage parents to be aware that this is a challenging world for our young people and is full of potential risks. Two simple steps parents can take to protect their children include limiting device use in public spaces and having access to student messages and chats.
As always, this message was supported at our assembly, with students once again reminded of the expectation to be upstanders, not just in the cyber world but also against any form of harassment or disrespectful behaviour.
Year 10 Deep Learning Credentials
Also at assembly this week, we issued our Year 10 students with their Deep Learning credentials from their work last year. These are strength-based credentials, and I made the point that every level on this credential represents success. For example, Level 2 of Communication states: “Learners at this level share information, converse in familiar contexts and are aware of their audience.”
If you are a Year 10 parent, I would encourage you to sit down with your child and look over this credential, reading the levels to see just how your child is progressing.
Co-curricular Activities
Our Co-curricular and sporting groups have started and are now in full swing. This week, our open boys soccer had a resounding 4-1 win in the first round of the CIS Cup. Personally, I am looking forward to our first day of chess, which will be held at school on 4 March.
The enthusiasm of our students to participate in these and many more activities is encouraging. I would once again stress that these are the places where our young people find their like-minded peers and form connections and bonds that provide that sense of belonging that is important to their wellbeing.
Please encourage your child to explore the possibilities here. More information can be found at www.opportunities.scas.nsw.edu.au/
I look forward to seeing our students continue to grow and thrive this term, both in their academic pursuits and through these valuable co-curricular experiences.
Next week, I am looking forward to our Year 7 Meet the Teacher Night on Tuesday evening and also our school social on Friday night.
Thank you for your continued support of the educational experiences here at St Columba.
Mr Paul Rikmanis
Head of Secondary