Assistant Principal Message
As we approach the end of another vibrant term at Kildare, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the incredible spirit of our College community. We should all be immensely proud of the dedication to learning and the genuine care for one another that has been on display this term.
A recent highlight was the outstanding participation in our recent Athletics Carnival and Oodgeroo Community Day. Seeing the College turn out for a few days of fun and competition, with such high spirits was great to see. These events are more than just dates on a calendar; they are a brilliant celebration of who we are as a community, providing a space for students to connect, compete respectfully, and support one another outside of the classroom.
As we head into the upcoming break, I wish all of our families a safe and Holy Easter. I hope you find this time to be one of rest, reflection, and joy with those you love.
Partnering for Digital Wellbeing
At Kildare we remain committed to addressing the challenges that impact our students' wellbeing and learning. One significant issue facing many of our families today is the use of mobile devices and social media.
We are aware that many students continue to access social media platforms before the age of 16. Unfortunately, the harm we are all well aware of, which emerges when dependence or misuse occurs, continues to impact the wellbeing of our students outside of the College and can often spill over into the school day.
We believe that the best way to support our community is through strong partnership between school and home. We are asking for your support in having the important, and sometimes difficult, conversations with your child about the potential harms of illegal social media apps and the importance of digital boundaries. Let’s work together to co-create a community of safe and respectful users of technology, including boundaries we know young people need.
Please see the attached instructions for families looking for additional support in managing screen time or app access for their young person.
For Apple Devices (iPhone/iPad)
Apple’s built-in feature for managing device usage is called Screen Time. When combined with Family Sharing, it allows you to manage your child’s device directly from your own iPhone.
How to Set it Up: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing. Add your child's account, then tap Screen Time to view their usage and set boundaries.
Downtime: This feature allows you to set a schedule for when the screen is off-limits (e.g., from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM). Only phone calls and apps you specifically choose will be available.
App Limits: You can set daily time limits for specific categories of apps, like Social Media or Games. Once the time is up, the app locks for the day.
Content & Privacy Restrictions: This is a crucial area where you can block inappropriate content, restrict explicit music or podcasts, and prevent your child from downloading new apps or deleting existing ones without your permission.
Official Resource: Apple’s Official Guide to Screen Time
For Android Devices (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.)
Google provides a free, comprehensive app called Google Family Link to help you manage your child’s Android device. You can download the parent version of the app on your own phone (even if you use an iPhone!).
How to Set it Up: Download the Family Link app on your device, and follow the prompts to link your account with your child’s Google account.
Daily Limits & Bedtime: You can set a maximum amount of daily screen time and establish a "Bedtime" that automatically locks the device when it is time to sleep.
App Approvals: Family Link allows you to review and approve or decline any app your child tries to download from the Google Play Store.
Location Tracking: If you choose to enable it, you can see your child’s device location on a map, providing peace of mind when they are traveling to and from school.
Official Resource: Google Family Link Official Site
Additional Resources for Families
We highly recommend bookmarking the eSafety Commissioner's website. As Australia’s national independent regulator for online safety, they provide world-class, practical advice for parents on navigating digital dilemmas:
eSafety Parents Page - Includes webinars, conversation starters, and specific advice on dealing with cyberbullying and navigating social media.
Tom Pulver | Assistant Principal