Deputy Principal

Social Media Usage

As social media becomes an integral part of our children’s lives, it brings both exciting opportunities and important challenges. Last week in particular there was social media content circulating which was confronting and concerning. It is a timely reminder of how accessible some of this content can be for our young men. While these platforms allow young people to connect, express themselves, and access information, they also expose them to risks such as cyberbullying, privacy breaches, and inappropriate content. As parents/carers, your guidance is vital to help children navigate social media safely and responsibly.

Here are some key points and practical steps to support your child’s safe use of social media:

1. Understand the Platforms Your Children Use

Take time to learn about the social media apps and websites your child uses. Each platform has different features, privacy settings, and community guidelines. Familiarising yourself with these can help you better support and protect your child.

2. Open and Ongoing Communication

Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable discussing their online experiences. Ask about what they enjoy on social media, who they interact with, and if anything makes them uncomfortable. Encourage honesty and assure them that you are there to help, not to punish.

3. Set Clear Boundaries and Expectations

Establish rules about what is appropriate to share online, how much time to spend on social media, and the importance of balancing screen time with offline activities. Make these rules clear and consistent, and explain the reasons behind them.

4. Teach About Privacy and Digital Footprint

Explain that what they post online can have lasting consequences. Help your child understand how to use privacy settings to control who sees their information and posts. Emphasize that even messages or photos sent privately can be shared beyond their control.

5. Recognise and Respond to Cyberbullying

Teach your child to identify cyberbullying, whether they experience it or witness it. Encourage them to speak up and report any bullying behaviour to you, school authorities, or the platform involved. Reinforce that bullying is never their fault and that help is available.

6. Promote Critical Thinking and Online Safety Skills

Help your child think critically about the content they see and share online. Discuss how to recognize misinformation, scams, and inappropriate content. Teach them not to click on suspicious links or share personal information with strangers.

7. Lead by Example

Your own behaviour sets a powerful example. Model respectful and thoughtful use of social media. Show your child how to engage positively and responsibly in the digital world.

8. Use Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools Wisely

Consider using parental controls and monitoring software to help manage your child’s online activity. However, balance monitoring with trust and respect for your child’s growing independence.

The Journey to and from School

A reminder that students are to make the quickest route to and from school each day. This means taking the direct route and not venturing into shopping centres and the like both before and after school. Once students arrive on site this is where they should remain for us as teachers to ensure our duty of care. Students who decide to go off campus to purchase food from local shops pose an element of risk when they should be on campus. Similarly on the way home students who enter shopping centres are not taking the quickest route home. Students who have to wait at bus stops for the next change are understandable and reasonable. Parental support on this matter is appreciated.

End of Year Events

This week via EdSmart all parents/carers would have received a list of key events pertaining to Term 4. I encourage all parents to discuss these year level specific events with your son, to ensure adequate preparation for a successful and positive end of year.