Student Wellbeing 

Cyber Safety

There are currently some serious issues involving social media interactions that are impacting on the wellbeing and safety of some students. As you know, social media has benefits but also disadvantages, we are becoming increasingly concerned by the associated risks surrounding your child.

Consistent with the regulations set down by  Victorian Department of Education and Training we have taken a clear stance at Concord School that students do not access their phone during school hours. Some students are also no longer permitted to access their phone on the school bus. 

We provide cyber-safety education to all students and provide individual guidance and counselling to individual students around this issue, however we cannot do this alone. I urge you as a parent or carer to monitor closely the communications your child is having online and provide supervision and/or restricted access to social media. 

The tragedy that happened to Dolly Everett, a 14 year girl who was subjected to online bullying and took her own has been widely publicised. I draw your attention to Point 8 on the attached sheet:

“8. Set up parental controls. Monitor your child’s online activities, both formally and informally. Install software or apps on their laptop, tablet or phone and routinely and randomly check their devices to see what they are doing – at least until you’re sure they can be trusted.”

https://dollysdream.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/DD_Ten-tips-if-your-child-is-the-bully_v2.pdf

We consider that the current intensity of communication between some students has the potential to cause harm. We have encouraged some parents to report the communications to the police. I urge you as a parent or carer to ensure that your child is given the guidance they need at this time.

Other resources that may help you manage this situation:

• www.dollysdream.org.au
• www.kidshelp.com.au/teens/issues/cyberbullying
• www.esafety.gov.au/complaints-and-reporting/cyberbullying-complaints/i-want-to-report-cyberbullying

Internet safety apps

• https://www.familyzone.com/au/#fzvideos/0/
• https://www.parents.com/kids/safety/internet/best-apps-prevent-cyberbullying/

Please contact Colin Simpson, AP Student Wellbeing or Assistant Principal if you require further support or information.

Colin Simpson

Assistant Principal

Engagement and Wellbeing