Assistant Principal's Page

STAYING SAFE AND THRIVING

 DURING THE HOLIDAYS 

The summer holidays are a wonderful time to relax, have fun, and spend quality moments with loved ones. It's also a chance to recharge and enjoy a break from school routines. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of staying safe and making smart choices. Here are some tips to help you prioritise your safety and wellbeing during the holiday season.

Plan Ahead

With extra free time, planning ahead can help you make the most of your break while staying safe:

· Let your family or friends know your plans, including where you’re going and when you’ll return.

· Agree on a curfew and stick to it.

· Keep your phone charged and accessible for emergencies.

Stay Safe Online

With school on pause, you may spend more time online. Protect yourself by:

· Thinking carefully about the content you share on social media—once posted, it’s public.

· Avoiding the sharing of personal information, such as your address or plans.

· Balancing screen time with offline activities to maintain a healthy routine.

Be Sun Smart

The summer sun is great for outdoor fun, but it’s essential to protect yourself:

· Apply sunscreen before heading out and reapply throughout the day.

· Wear a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes.

· Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the heat.

· Limit time outdoors during peak UV hours.

Stay Safe Around Water

Water activities can be a holiday highlight, but safety is key:

· Swim in designated areas with lifeguards or locations you know well.

· Never swim alone—always have a buddy.

· Pay attention to weather conditions and avoid swimming in rough waters.

Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle

Summer is the perfect time to rest and recharge, but keeping an active, balanced routine is equally important:

· Engage in daily physical activity, even if it’s just a short walk.

· Try new sports or activities—doing so with friends makes it even more enjoyable.

· Stick to a regular sleep schedule and ease back into school routines as the holidays end.

· Prioritize rest and relaxation, perhaps through mindfulness or meditation.

Look After Your Mental Health

The holidays are an opportunity to focus on your mental wellbeing:

· Stay connected with friends and family—don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it.

· Spend time on hobbies and activities that make you happy.

· Practice gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness to nurture a positive mindset. · Reach out for help if needed—Kids Helpline is available at kidshelpline.com.au or by calling 1800 55 1800.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make this summer holiday safe, enjoyable, and refreshing. Wishing you a fantastic break, and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2025!

Social Media Safety

Social media is a fantastic way for students to stay connected, share their experiences, and express themselves. To ensure these interactions remain positive and safe, the Victorian Government offers helpful advice and resources about online safety and what to do if challenges arise. 

Parent Fact Sheet

The Parent Fact Sheet is a valuable resource for parents and carers. It provides guidance on:

· Supporting children to stay safe online.

· Recognising signs that a child may need help.

· Knowing what steps to take if an unsafe online experience occurs. You can access the fact sheet and other resources on online safety at Victorian Government Online Safety.

 Schools and Digital Technologies

Schools play a key role in promoting the responsible use of digital technologies. This includes:

· Encouraging safe and respectful engagement with digital platforms.

· Teaching cybersafety practices.

· Using technology to enhance student learning and development.

By working together—students, parents, and schools—