From the Principal

Dear Parents

In today’s world, young people are growing up in an environment that is more connected, immediate and data-driven than any previous generation has experienced. From the moment they check their device, send a message, scroll through social media, or search for information online, they are leaving behind a digital footprint. 

Some of our digital footprint is active – the content we deliberately share, such as posts, comments, emails or online forms. Some of it is passive – information collected in the background, often without us realising it, such as location data, browsing behaviour, app usage and online tracking through cookies and other technologies.

For parents, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Unlike previous generations, today’s children and teenagers are growing up in a world where much of what they do online can be stored, analysed and, in some cases, retrieved long into the future. What was once private and fleeting is now often permanent and visible.

This reality makes digital citizenship an essential part of a young person’s education. As adults, we want our children to understand that their online behaviour matters – not only in the present, but also in shaping their reputation, relationships and future opportunities. Universities, employers and organisations are increasingly taking an interest in a person’s digital presence, making it all the more important that students learn to navigate the online world thoughtfully and responsibly.

At school, we aim to support students in developing the awareness and judgement needed to use technology well. This includes understanding the importance of privacy, recognising that not everything online is harmless or temporary, and learning to pause before posting, sharing or responding.

There are some simple but powerful habits families can encourage at home. These include using strong and secure passwords, regularly reviewing privacy settings on apps and devices, and having open conversations about what is appropriate to post online. One of the most helpful questions a young person can ask before sharing something is: Would I be comfortable if this were seen by my family, my teachers or someone reviewing my application in the future?

Technology brings extraordinary benefits to learning, communication and connection, but it also requires wisdom. Helping young people understand their digital footprint is not about creating fear; rather, it is about building responsibility, discernment and good habits that will serve them well throughout their lives.

As a school community, we all have a role to play in guiding our children to be not only capable users of technology, but also thoughtful, respectful and responsible digital citizens.

Staff Update

It is with gratitude that I share the resignation of Serena Lewis from Kinross Wolaroi School. Since joining the School in 2018 as Head of Teaching and Learning, Serena has made a significant contribution to our academic program. She led the Academic Committee and helped shape the School’s strategic vision, driving initiatives such as the Whole School Literacy Drive, Learning Walks, e-learning development, and the Academic Staff Peer Observation Program. Her leadership was especially valued during the COVID remote learning period.

From 2022 to 2025, Serena served as Head of Department – English, leading curriculum renewal and fostering a strong culture of collaboration and professional growth. More recently, she continued to support students through her teaching, particularly in Stage 6.

A dedicated educator and valued contributor to co-curricular life, Serena will be greatly missed. I thank her for her service to the School and wish her every success ahead.

Student News

Congratulations to Caitlyn Milne (12/2026) on being recognised as a runner-up in the 2026 Kurt Hahn Prize. Caitlyn was nominated for her outstanding commitment to service, with the judging panel particularly impressed by her significant fundraising efforts for the Leukaemia Foundation and the McGrath Foundation, as well as her volunteering with Sony Camp 2025 and Hot Meals outreach. Her appointment as Round Square Captain this year reflects her strong leadership and her embodiment of the Round Square IDEALS through meaningful and adventurous service initiatives.

While only one Kurt Hahn Prize is awarded each year, Caitlyn’s runner-up commendation is a wonderful acknowledgement of her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. We warmly congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

With regards

Timothy Kelly 

Principal