SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS 

ONLINE BEHAVIOUR AND HOW WE CAN LEARN THROUGH CHALLENGES 

Cyberbullying is an increasing issue within secondary school communities. While much of this behaviour occurs outside school hours, its impact is often felt within the classroom, the playground and across peer relationships. As a school, we take these matters seriously. At the same time, we recognise that these situations can provide important learning opportunities as young people develop their understanding of relationships, responsibility and digital citizenship.

UNDERSTANDING THE CONTEXT 

Cyberbullying involves using digital platforms—such as social media or messaging apps—to hurt, embarrass or exclude others. Unlike face-to-face conflict, it can occur at any time, reach wide audiences quickly, and be difficult to undo once shared.Online interactions often reflect real-world relationships. When issues arise, they present an opportunity to support students in developing empathy, accountability and stronger interpersonal skills.

SCHOOL RESPONSIBILITIES AND BOUNDARIES 

The school will always act on matters that occur during school hours. Where online behaviour outside of these times impacts student wellbeing at school, we will work to support students and manage the situation through school processes. Families should also be aware that online behaviour occurring outside school hours may fall under Victorian law, particularly where there is evidence of harassment, threats or ongoing harm.

A RESTORATIVE APPROACH

Where appropriate, our approach is restorative and educational. This includes supporting students who have been affected, helping students understand the impact of their actions, encouraging reflection and accountability, repairing relationships where possible, and reinforcing clear expectations for respectful behaviour.Our aim is to ensure that when mistakes occur, they become opportunities for learning and positive change.

THE ROLE OF FAMILIES 

Families play a critical role in supporting safe and healthy online behaviour. We encourage parents and carers to maintain open conversations about online interactions, set clear expectations around device use, feel confident to monitor and supervise phone use—particularly during late hours—and support healthy routines, including limiting overnight device access. Late-night online communication can escalate issues quickly and impact both wellbeing and readiness for learning the following day.

SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD 

If your child is experiencing difficulties:

∙ Listen calmly and take concerns seriously

∙ Encourage them not to respond or escalate

∙ Save evidence (screenshots/messages)

∙ Contact the school for support

If your child has made a poor choice online:

∙ Approach the situation calmly

∙ Discuss the impact of their behaviour

∙ Reinforce empathy and responsibility

∙ Work with the school to support positive change

KEY MESSAGE FOR STUDENTS 

∙ Think before you post

∙ Treat others with respect

∙ Speak up early

∙ Learn from mistakes

∙ Support others positively

WORKING TOGETHER 

Young people are still learning how to navigate complex social situations, particularly in online environments. Mistakes can and do happen—what matters most is how we respond.By working together—students, families and school—we can ensure these situations become opportunities for growth, learning and stronger relationships across our community.If you have any concerns, please contact your child’s Year Level Coordinator or the Wellbeing Team.

Important and Recommended Resources – very useful for understanding around laws, recommended approaches to support young people with online activities: