Child Safety & Student Wellbeing News
St Agatha's is committed to complying with Ministerial Order 1359
SPECIAL REPORT: Shaping Healthy Masculinity
In today's fast-moving world, many boys are struggling to find direction. Even well-meaning online searches about fitness, confidence or relationships can lead them to content that promotes rigid or unhealthy ideas about masculinity. The critically acclaimed TV show 'Adolescence' has brought fresh attention to this issue, highlighting how boys are often exposed to messages that glorify toughness and dominance, while dismissing empathy and emotional openness.
These outdated beliefs can limit emotional growth and impact how boys relate to others - with real consequences in schools, homes and communities. That's why it's more important than ever to guide boys with care, clarity and connection.
By offering healthier role models, safe spaces to talk, and encouraging respectful friendships - especially across genders - we can help boys develop the confidence, empathy and relationship skills they need to thrive.
This special report calls for a cultural shift and advocates for curiosity-driven dialogue that builds trust and critical thinking. The goal is to raise boys who are not just resistant to harmful influences, but actively capable of questioning and rejecting them.
Here is the link to your Special Report https://stacbourne.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-shaping-healthy-masculinity-au
Cyber Safety and the Dangers of Social Media
At St Agatha’s Primary School, the safety and wellbeing of our students extends beyond the classroom and into their digital lives. As children spend increasing amounts of time online, it is vital that we work together to ensure they are navigating the internet safely and responsibly.
While social media can be a positive tool for creativity and connection, it also comes with significant risks. Many popular platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, have age restrictions (usually 13 years and over) that are often overlooked. These restrictions are in place to protect young users from exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, online predators, and the influence of unhealthy behaviours.
We encourage all parents and carers to regularly check in with their children about their online activities. Open and honest conversations are key to helping young people understand the importance of responsible online behaviour. Some questions you might consider asking include:
- What apps and websites are you using?
- Who are you talking to online?
- Have you ever seen anything online that made you uncomfortable?
Taking the time to sit with your child and explore their online world shows that you care, and keeps communication lines open if problems arise.
We also strongly encourage families to set clear expectations and boundaries for device use at home, including supervision of social media accounts and regular reviews of privacy settings.
For further advice and resources, please visit the eSafety Commissioner’s website at www.esafety.gov.au. It offers fantastic guidance for parents on helping children stay safe online.
Together, through education, conversation and active support, we can empower our children to become safe, respectful and responsible digital citizens.
Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students safe – both offline and online.
If you are concerned, please reach out to your child's classroom teacher.
Here are some additional resources to support you:
Parent resources | eSafety Commissioner