Kambrya College Newsletter

Health/Wellbeing

Hi everyone,

Welcome back to Kambrya College. The Health Wellbeing and Engagement Team are excited to be back and provide students and families support. 

In this newsletter, we want to share with you resources for upcoming Safer Internet Day, tips on Sun Safety and local supports. 

 

Safer Internet Day 11th February 

This global initiative brings together communities, schools, organisations and families to raise awareness of online safety issues and work towards a safer internet for all. 

The eSafety Commissioner leads the day in Australia and is calling on all Australians to help make the internet a safer, and more positive place!

 

 

 

Why is safer Internet Day Important?

Whether you’re working, learning, playing or scrolling – the internet is a huge part of life. It opens a world of opportunities, but also comes with risks, especially for young people and other at-risk groups.

 

Key Issues Students May Encounter Online 

 

Cyberbullying 

 

 

When someone uses the internet or social media to harass, embarrass, or harm another person. This could include hurtful messages, sharing private photos, or spreading rumours.

 

 

 

Unwanted Contact 

Not everyone online is who they claim to be. In some cases, adults may pretend to be young people to build inappropriate relationships, known as grooming

 

Image-Based Abuse 

Sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent can result in emotional distress and legal consequences. This includes altered or real photos shared on social platforms or in private messages.

 

Steps to Stay Safe Online 

Think Before Posting: Encourage young people to reflect before sharing anything online. Once shared, content can spread quickly beyond their control. 

Privacy Settings: Regularly update privacy settings on social media to control who can see and interact with content. 

Block and Report Harmful Content: Use platform tools to block individuals and report abusive behaviour. 

Talk to Trusted Adults: Encourage young people to reach out to parents, teachers, or wellbeing support if they encounter problems online. 

Support Services 

If you or someone you know is experiencing online harm, support is available: 

  • Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 
  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 
  • eSafety Commissioner: Report abuse at eSafety.gov.au

Recognising Cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying can include: 

  • Hurtful texts, comments, or messages 
  • Sharing embarrassing photos or videos 
  • Spreading rumours or creating fake profiles

Steps to Handle Cyberbullying 

 

Collect Evidence

Take screenshots and save any harmful content. Include details like usernames and platform information.

 

Report Harmful Content 

Report abusive behaviour to the relevant platform. If no action is taken, report to the eSafety Commissioner. 

 

Prevent Further Contact 

Block the person involved and adjust privacy settings to limit exposure.

 

Seek Support 

Talk to a trusted adult and reach out to available helplines and services for emotional support. 

 

Prevent Further Contact

Block the person involved and adjust privacy settings to limit exposure.   

 

Seek Support

Talk to a trusted adult and reach out to available helplines for emotional support.  

 

Resources for Parents 

  • Encourage Open Conversations: Discuss online behavior and the importance of kindness and respect. 
  • Monitor Online Activity: Be aware of what children are accessing and whom they are interacting with. 
  • Teach Online Safety Strategies: Familiarise your family with the reporting tools on the platforms they use 

Where to Get Help 

  • eSafety Commissioner: eSafety.gov.au – The Office of eSafety has some very useful short videos and easy-to-read advice sheets that give parents and carers the confidence to talk with their children about online safety.

     

  • 1800RESPECT: For safety planning and support around image-based abuse 

     

  • Headspace: 1800 650 890 – For mental health support for youth aged 12-25 

 

Sun Safety

Summertime is a time where most people are more aware of the importance of protecting ourselves from overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

 

Overexposure to UV rays can have negative health consequences, ranging from painful sunburns to premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Tanning is a sign of skin damage! So, it’s important to get the facts on how to stay safe in the sun whilst having fun! 

 

Check out SunSmart and Cancer Council Victoria for information on how to stay safe in the sun, not just in summer, but all year round! 

We hope you have a great first term back and we look forward to seeing you around at Kambrya College.

 

Warm regards,The Health Wellbeing and Engagement Team