From our Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Friends,

As part of school improvement agenda each year we establish a set of strategies aimed to deliver improved learning outcomes for students. Throughout the year staff work diligently on achieving progress in these strategies or goals. Last week the leadership team spent time reflecting on the year that was and started planning our improvement focus for 2025. In reviewing progress we look at a number of data sets and evidence-based outcomes as well as seeking feedback from staff on our achievements in the 2024 academic year.

From these review mechanisms the following were identified as successes in 2024. Success in this instance is determined by improved outcomes or an improvement in mindset or practice and in 2024 this includes:

Build staff understanding and use of Scripture to support formation in leading and teaching in the context of a Catholic school.
Build the capacity of teachers to assess student learning and achievement using the 'To Live in Christ Jesus' to develop the progressions of learning in RE.
Enhance parish, community and school partnerships.
Collaboratively unpack and implement two high-impact teaching strategies (HITS) to improve the capacity of teachers in the classroom.
Meeting schedule provides for HITS development in Professional Learning sessions.
All Learning Area Coaches reflect on and drive the implementation of a second selected HITS in faculty meetings.
Year 11 & 12 teachers utilise VCE data to inform pedagogical practice.
Ensure inclusive and child safe practices inform the implementation of the School-Wide expectations (ROCKS) and WSAPBS Implementation Committee recommendations.
Lesson routines are created and consistently applied.

The above illustrates only a snapshot of the progress achieved in 2024. It provides a platform for further improvements in 2025. Currently senior leaders and staff are working through a plan for next year. The central theme of the 2025 annual implementation plan will be to consolidate the work started this year and embed improved practices and learning opportunities in 2025.

Raising the age limit of access to social media platforms

I thought it appropriate in this forum to keep you informed of a proposed change in the digital landscape that may impact our students and families. The government is considering raising the minimum age for young people to access social media platforms. This proposal aims to provide better protection for young people from risks associated with social media use, such as exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and privacy issues.

What Does This Mean for Your Child?

If the age limit is raised, younger students may no longer be allowed to access popular social media platforms until they are older. The specific age being considered is currently under review, though many advocates suggest raising the limit to 16 or 18 years. The proposed increase is based on evidence indicating that social media can affect mental health and wellbeing, particularly among young users.

Why Raise the Age Limit?

Studies show that extended exposure to social media can affect teenagers’ mental health, self-esteem, and sleep quality. By increasing the minimum age for access, experts hope to delay exposure to potentially harmful influences, giving young people more time to develop the social and emotional skills to navigate these platforms safely.

How We Can Work Together

As a school, we support the safe and responsible use of technology and are committed to educating students on digital citizenship and internet safety. We encourage families to stay informed about this potential change and to discuss safe social media use at home. Here are a few ways we can support our children together:

Monitor Usage: Keep an eye on how much time your child spends online and which platforms they are using.
Encourage Open Communication: Make sure your child feels comfortable discussing their online experiences and any concerns with you.
Promote Offline Activities: Balance screen time with physical activities, hobbies, and social interactions outside the digital world.

As discussions on this policy continue, we will keep you updated with any further developments. Thank you for your support in helping our students, your sons and daughters, navigate the digital world safely.

Enjoy the week ahead and stay safe.

Mr Chris Black

Principal