Assistant Principal
Getting Rid of Head Lice – What Families Need to Know
Head lice are a common issue in primary schools, and while they can be frustrating, they’re nothing to be embarrassed about. The key is to act quickly and carefully to stop them spreading.
Head lice are tiny insects that live in the hair and feed on the scalp. They spread easily through direct head-to-head contact, but they can’t jump or fly. With the right steps, they can be treated and prevented.
Step 1: Treat the hair. Use a special lice treatment lotion or shampoo from the chemist, following the directions carefully. These products are designed to kill live lice.
Step 2: Remove the eggs (nits). After treatment, use a fine-toothed metal comb on wet, conditioned hair to remove the eggs. Work in small sections from the scalp to the ends, wiping the comb after each stroke. Removing all eggs is essential, as new lice can hatch if any are left behind.
Step 3: Check again in seven days. Lice can reappear if eggs survive, so repeat the treatment and combing after one week.
Preventing reinfestation:
- Check all family members’ hair regularly.
- Avoid sharing hairbrushes, combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Tie long hair back for school.
- Use hairspray or styling gel to make it harder for lice to cling to hair.
Occasionally using a hair straightener can help kill stray lice and eggs with heat.
By working together, our school community can keep head lice under control and ensure every child can learn and play comfortably. If you need further advice, please speak to your local pharmacist or the school office.
Keeping Our Students Safe Online – The Importance of Home Firewalls and Parental Controls
At school, our students’ internet use is carefully protected by strong firewall systems that block unsafe or inappropriate websites. However, when students take their school devices home, those same protections do not automatically apply. This means it’s very important for parents and carers to have their own firewall or parental control settings in place on home internet networks.
Firewalls help filter what websites and content can be accessed, reducing the risk of exposure to harmful material or online predators. Popular sites like Roblox and YouTube are blocked at school because they can lead children to unmonitored or unsafe spaces online. Without parental controls, these sites may still be accessible at home.
We encourage all families to take time to check what websites their children are visiting. Many internet providers offer simple tools to help parents monitor online activity and set restrictions. Open communication is also key — talk regularly with your child about what they do online, who they interact with, and what to do if something makes them feel uncomfortable.
By working together, we can help our students develop safe online habits that protect them both at school and at home. A few simple steps, such as installing a home firewall, setting clear online rules, and keeping communication open, can make a big difference in helping children enjoy a positive and secure online experience.
Warm regards,
Bron Steele
Assistant Principal