From Mr Coppin

The publication of The Anxious Generation by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt has sparked important global conversations about the impact of smartphones and social media on childhood development. In his work, Professor Haidt argues that society has effectively “rewired childhood” through the widespread adoption of smartphones. He identifies the years between 2010 and 2015 as a turning point, marking what he describes as the end of the play-based childhood. According to his research, the first generation to go through puberty with constant smartphone access has shown increased levels of anxiety and depression.

These concerns are increasingly being recognised not only in research, but also in public policy and the courts. In Australia, the Federal Government has introduced world-first legislation to restrict access to social media for children under the age of 16, reflecting growing evidence about the risks of early and prolonged exposure.

At the same time, just last week, a landmark court case in the United States found Meta (the parent company of Instagram and Facebook) liable for harm caused to young users through the design of its platforms. A jury concluded that features designed to maximise engagement contributed to compulsive use and negatively impacted mental health, awarding damages to a young plaintiff. This case is being widely viewed as a turning point in holding technology companies accountable for the wellbeing of children and adolescents.

In light of these developments, I would like to share some of Professor Haidt’s insights from his article Go Outside and Play! 20 Rules for Raising Kids in the Age of the iPhone. His recommendations closely align with both emerging research and this broader societal movement toward safeguarding childhood. They also strongly support our commitment to maintaining a smartphone- and smartwatch-free environment in the Junior School. We believe in fostering real-world connections, encouraging play-based learning, and protecting the space for children to experience a childhood free from the pressures and distractions of digital devices.

As we approach the well-deserved holiday break, these ideas offer a valuable opportunity for families to reflect and consider a “digital reset.” By reducing screen time, delaying access to social media, and prioritising outdoor play, social interaction, and unstructured experiences, we can work together to support children’s wellbeing and development in these formative years.

Easter

We honour our Anglican heritage but also celebrate the diversity of faiths within our community. In the Christian Faith Easter is nearly upon us.  In honour our Anglican tradition, Kindergarten to Year 6 students will walk to St Michael’s for our Easter Services this afternoon.  

Junior School Vice Captain Arielle Kim will share a wonderful prayer she wrote herself.

Dear God,

Thank you for the great amount of learning we did, and for a wonderful term one.

Thank you also for all the times we were able to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Thank you for every excursion, camp, lunch break and opportunity we have experienced so far.

Please help us take care of ourselves and rest in the upcoming holiday break, and go forward in the year positively.

God bless everyone here, our friends and families.

In Your name we pray, 

Amen

Arielle Kim

Junior School Vice Captain

Staffing News

Monique Shippen has concluded her time at Kambala after close to a year of service as our Junior School French Specialist. Monique has accepted a secondary teaching role that will shorten her lengthy afternoon commute home to the Northern Beaches, and we wish her all the very best for the future.

We are delighted to welcome Leanne Reynolds to the Kambala team! Miss Reynolds completed her educational training in Ireland after spending a year of French immersion as a Secondary School language teaching assistant in Reims, France, where she honed her French skills. In Australia, Ms Reynolds has been teaching at St Catherine’s, PLC Sydney (Croydon), and PLC Perth (Peppermint Grove).

URSTRONG Workshops Term 2 2026

On Tuesday 28 April, we are delighted to welcome Tyson Greenwood, Director of URSTRONG Schools, who will be working with our students to build strong friendship skills and introduce the program’s unique “language of friendship.” Grounded in research showing that relationships are central to wellbeing and learning, this visit will empower students with practical tools to navigate friendships positively and confidently. When friendships are nurtured effectively within a school community, students are better supported to flourish both socially and academically. 

You are also invited to continue the conversation at home with a complimentary URSTRONG Families membership, providing access to a range of activities, videos, and articles to further support your child in developing positive friendship skills.

Easter Services at St Michael's Vaucluse

Lunchtime Concert Series 

The Music Department Lunchtime Concert series is starting up again! Parents are invited to join us on Fridays at 12.50pm in the Performance Theatre for a wonderful musical break in the middle of the day.

If students are interested in performing at one of these concerts please send an email to peter_sagar@kambala.nsw.edu.au or come and speak with Mr Sagar. 

Winter Uniform - Term 2 - Outfitters

Please note that when students return in Term 2 they will be required to wear their Winter uniform. 

Our Outfitters store operates on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7.30am - 3.45pm until the end of Term. 

The last working day of Term 1 is Wednesday 1 April. 

Prior to the start of Term 2, Outfitters will be open on Monday 20 April and Tuesday 21 April 2026 (being the first day of Term 2) and then as usual Wednesday and Friday.  No appointments are necessary. 

We will revert to our usual opening days of Monday, Wednesday and Friday in Week 2 of Term 2.

Before School Care

I am writing to let you know that our Before School Care provider OSHClub has advised us that, unfortunately, due to a current low level of enrolments, maintaining the service beyond the end of Term 2, 2026, is currently not viable.

As a result, Before School Care will continue throughout Term 2, but will regrettably not be offered from the start of Term 3 unless enrolments increase to an average of three or more students each day. We encourage families who rely on this service to ensure their children are enrolled so we can continue to provide this support.

Junior School Events

Please see the next page for exciting Junior School Events and Dates for your Calendars!