Wellbeing
SPECIAL REPORT: Shaping Healthy Masculinity
Read and Watch the video here: https://stlukesmarsdenpark.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-shaping-healthy-masculinity-au
Young people today are navigating a rapidly changing world - economically, socially and emotionally. Many are struggling to find direction. For boys in particular, even a simple search for advice on fitness, confidence or relationships can quickly lead them into a stream of online content that promotes extreme or unhealthy ideas. This is the reality of the digital age and the nature of today's attention economy.
This topic has gained renewed attention with the release of the critically acclaimed TV show 'Adolescence', which highlights the complex challenges boys are facing. In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in online spaces that present confusing and often harmful ideas about masculinity. Many boys are exposed to messages that glorify toughness, emotional detachment and dominance, while dismissing empathy, vulnerability, and kindness as signs of weakness. These outdated ideals are limiting boys' emotional growth and shaping how they engage with others. The impact is real - and it's being felt across our schools, homes and communities.
We need to consider how we can best support boys as they grow into respectful, confident and emotionally intelligent young men. With a constant stream of messages shaping their beliefs - from social media and online influencers to schoolyard conversations and pop culture - it's more important than ever to offer boys consistent guidance grounded in care, clarity and connection.
This means introducing healthier role models and creating safe spaces where boys feel encouraged to express themselves openly. They need to understand that seeking help and showing emotion are not signs of weakness, but of inner strength - and that respect for others is a true marker of maturity. Encouraging positive, cross-gender relationships offer enormous benefits to boys, helping broaden their perspectives, challenge stereotypes and develop respectful relationship skills for life.
The Australian Government has developed an interactive tool called The Algorithm of Disrespect to help adults understand the subtle and often hidden forms of online disrespect. It simulates a typical young person's digital experience, offering valuable insight into what many young people encounter online. To explore the tool, click the button labelled ENTER JAMES' PHONE via the link HERE.
For more information on how to support young men online, click HERE to view a resource from eSafety Commissioner.
To better understand the hidden meanings behind emojis - as highlighted in the TV show 'Adolescence' - here are two resources you may find helpful:
Celebrating NAIDOC Week
NAIDOC week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It is celebrated by all Australians and is a great opportunity to recognise and learn more about the history and culture of Indigenous communities.
NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Its origins can be traced back to the Aboriginal rights movement, when on Australia Day 1938, protestors marched through the streets of Sydney to highlight the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Today, it is a week-long celebration held in July that consists of range of traditional and contemporary activities.
NAIDOC Week is an important event that helps build positive relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. It enables a deeper understanding of our differences and similarities and is a great opportunity for all Australians to eliminate bias and discrimination by reflecting and reconciling the wrongs of the past to facilitate hope and build a fairer future. Families are encouraged to join in and support young people in learning the significance of NAIDOC Week.
This Special Report offers suggestions on how families can celebrate NAIDOC Week together. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to your Special Report https://stlukesmarsdenpark.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-celebrating-naidoc-week
https://www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/Upcoming-Events-Activities/NAIDOC-Week-2025
PARENTING
Parenting can often feel like a juggling act, and it's common for parents to wonder if they're always doing enough.
The reality of raising children brings a mix of daily experiences. Your responses in these moments are crucial, directly shaping your child's attitudes and their capacity for resilience.
Please find an infographic below that provides straightforward strategies to support positive parenting. It highlights the significant impact of leading by example, as it's often more effective to manage our own actions than to try and control our children's.
Find more resources to help parenting at our dedicated Parent Wellbeing page: https://stlukesmarsdenpark.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/positive-parenting
Our Futures Anti-Vaping Course
We are pleased to inform you that our Year 7 and 8 students have recently participated in the OurFutures Vaping Prevention Program—an innovative, evidence-based initiative designed to educate young people about the risks of vaping and empower them to make informed decisions
Developed by the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, the program is aligned with the Australian Health and Physical Education curriculum and is currently being rolled out nationwide with support from the Australian Government.
Through these lessons, students learn about:
- The health effects and harms associated with vaping
- Common misconceptions and social influences related to e-cigarette use.
- Assertive communication and refusal skills to resist peer pressure
- Strategies to break the cycle of nicotine dependence.
Please check out the information and resources for parents here at our very own St Lukes parent dedicated wellbeing page https://stlukesmarsdenpark.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-vaping-au
Helping your family stay safe on devices and apps
New classifications for gambling-like content in video games
The Australian Government has introduced new classifications to help parents and carers identify video games with gambling-like content. These video games will now be classified M (not recommended for children under 15) or R18+ (restricted to adults 18 years and over). Use classification advice to help choose games that are right for your family.
Google introduces new digital protections
Google is rolling out new sensitive content warnings that blur images that may contain nudity, and provides a ‘speed bump’ of resources and options before viewing. The feature is opt-out for users under 18 years, with parental controls for supervised accounts, and opt-in for adults. You can manage this feature via Android settings.
They are also expanding some of the tools in Google Family Link including introducing School Time to phones and tablets for parents to automatically limit or adjust phone functionality and restrict app access during school hours.
For more tech tips to keep you and your family safe across social media, games, apps and sites, visit the eSafety guide.
Careers
Monday (June 30, 2025)
AFTRS - Careers and Industry ExposUnleash your creative potential in the world of film, television, radio and podcasting at AFTRS.
Explore the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, meet our friendly staff and we’ll answer all your burning questions and give you valuable advice on how to submit a standout application.
Time: Details in link
Location: Details in link
Details and Registration:https://www.aftrs.edu.au/event/careers-and-industry-expos/University of Wollongong - Early Admission - Ace your Application WebinarAt this webinar, the panel — made up of UOW academics who assess the applications, and students who were successful in their application will cover everything you need to know — what it is, why it matters, and how to craft a standout application. This session will walk you through key dates, application tips, and what to expect. You'll be able to ask questions in real time.
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Online
Details and Registration:https://mkto.uow.edu.au/DOMUGWEB20256438EarlyAdmissionwebinar_Registration.html
Tuesday (July 1, 2025)
Defence Careers Australia - Newcastle: Defence Careers Information SessionConsider a career like no other and represent Australia with pride in the Navy, Army or Air Force.
Speak with current serving personnel at our upcoming info session and ask your questions - is a career in the Australian Defence Force for you?
It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!
Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Location: Newcastle ADF Careers Centre
Details and Registration:https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/3koew3bThe University of Newcastle - Town Planning WebinarJoin Program Convenor, Professor Simon Springer, to learn all about the Town Planning programs available at the University of Newcastle. Ask any program questions and ensure you’re fully prepared to study in 2025.
Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Online
Details and Registration:https://www.newcastle.edu.au/events/future-students/town-planning-webinar
Wednesday (July 2, 2025)
Defence Careers Australia - Coffs Harbour: Defence Careers Information SessionConsider a career like no other and represent Australia with pride in the Navy, Army or Air Force.
Speak with current serving personnel at our upcoming info session and ask your questions - is a career in the Australian Defence Force for you?
It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!
Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Location: Toormina Community Centre
Details and Registration:https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/si368vaCanberra Institute of Technology - Work Health and Safety Certificate IV - Fee Free TAFE Information SessionCourse information sessions for your chosen course area are listed below. These sessions provide an opportunity to speak with CIT teachers and support staff about the course you’re interested in and receive help with your enrolment. You can stop by at any time during the times listed, there is no need to book or register in advance.
If you’re ready to enrol, check that you have everything you need to complete your enrolment before you attend a session.
Notes: Applicants will be contacted and provided with information regarding the next step in the enrolment process. CIT reserves the right to not run courses where there are insufficient enrolments.
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Room Block B, Room B10, CIT Bruce
Details and Registration:https://cit.edu.au/study/course-information-sessions/session_listing?category_query=Health+and+Fitness Defence Careers Australia - Canberra: Defence Careers Information SessionConsider a career like no other and represent Australia with pride in the Navy, Army or Air Force.
Speak with current serving personnel at our upcoming info session and ask your questions - is a career in the Australian Defence Force for you?
It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited!
Time: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Location: Canberra ADF Careers Centre
Details and Registration:https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/odjrhvl
Thursday (July 3, 2025)
Canberra Institute of Technology - Leadership and Management Certificate IV - Standard Information SessionCourse information sessions for your chosen course area are listed below. These sessions provide an opportunity to speak with CIT teachers and support staff about the course you’re interested in and receive help with your enrolment. You can stop by at any time during the times listed, there is no need to book or register in advance.
If you’re ready to enrol, check that you have everything you need to complete your enrolment before you attend a session.
Notes: CIT Woden Campus Information Centre (formerly the Woden Renewal Hub between Access CBR & Aus Post in Woden). CIT reserves the right to not run courses where there are insufficient enrolments.
Time: 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Room CIT Woden Campus Information Centre, CIT Woden
Details and Registration:https://cit.edu.au/study/course-information-sessions/session_listing?category_query=Professional
Friday (July 4, 2025)
University of Technology Sydney - UTS Tech Festival - High School ExperienceAre you a high school student dreaming of a career in tech? Come and explore the study and career possibilities in Engineering and IT, attend showcases, and get an insight into the life of an engineering or IT student at UTS.
Time: Details in link
Location: City campus Faculty of Engineering and IT, UTS Building 11, Broadway, Ultimo NSW 2007
Details and Registration:https://www.uts.edu.au/events/uts-tech-festival-future-students
Saturday (July 5, 2025)
Defence Careers Australia - Coffs Harbour: Pop Up ADF Careers CentreJoin the Pop Up ADF Careers Centre (PACC) in Coffs Harbour at the Base of the Jetty, and speak with current serving members to see which Australian Defence Force career is best suited to you. This is your opportunity to discover the range of roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force, ranging from trades, transport, logistics, engineering, combat and more.
Please note registration is not required.
Time: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Location: Coffs Harbour Pop Up ADF Careers
Details and Registration:https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/z65pmg4
Sunday (July 6, 2025)
Western Sydney University - Open DayFind out why so many students choose Western
Open Day is on Sunday 6 July 2025 from 10am to 4pm. This event isn’t your average uni tour. It’s a full-campus experience packed with everything you need to feel informed, inspired and ready to take the next step toward your dream career.
Explore course options, find out about our entry pathways and experience uni life to see why so many students chose Western.
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Western Sydney University
Details and Registration:https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/opendayDefence Careers Australia - Coffs Harbour: Pop Up ADF Careers CentreJoin the Pop Up ADF Careers Centre (PACC) in Coffs Harbour at the Base of the Jetty, and speak with current serving members to see which Australian Defence Force career is best suited to you. This is your opportunity to discover the range of roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force, ranging from trades, transport, logistics, engineering, combat and more.
Please note registration is not required.
Time: 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Location: Coffs Harbour Pop Up ADF Careers
Details and Registration:https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/z65pmg4
Life Education Timetable 2025 (Healthy Harold)
Term 3, Week 4
Wednesday, 13th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Ready, Steady, Go | 1 | Lions (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Ready, Steady, Go | 1 | Lions (1) |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Ready, Steady, Go | K-6 | Arrunga |
Thursday, 14th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | B Cyber wise | 4 | Glindas |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Friends and Feelings | 3 | Glindas |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Harold’s Friend Ship | K | Kanga (1) |
Friday, 15th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Friends and Feelings | Hogwarts |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | B Cyber wise | Hogwarts |
| 3 | 13:00 | 14:30 | Relate, Respect and Connect | Malala (1) |
Term 4, Week 5
Monday, 18th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Friends and Feelings | 3 | Magicians |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | B Cyber wise | 4 | Magicians |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Harold’s Friend Ship | K | Kanga (2) |
Tuesday, 19th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
K-6 Book Parade | |||||
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Harold’s Online World | 3 | Diagons (1) |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Friends and Feelings | 2 | Diagons (2) |
Wednesday, 20th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Harold’s Online World | 2 | Tinmen (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Harold’s Online World | 2 | Tinmen (2) |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Harold’s Friend Ship | K | Roos (1) |
Thursday, 21st August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Friends and Feelings | 3 | Gringotts (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | B Cyber wise | 4 | Gringotts (2) |
| 3 | 13:30 | 14:30 | Harold’s Friend Ship | K | Roos (2) |
Friday, 22nd August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Take a breath | 6 | Riley (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Take a breath | 6 | Riley (2) |
| 3 | 13:00 | 14:30 | Relate, Respect and Connect | 5 | Malala (2) |
Term 3, Week 6
Monday, 25th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Ready, Steady, Go | 1 | Wizards (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Ready, Steady, Go | 1 | Wizards (2) |
| 3 | 13:00 | 14:30 | Relate, Respect and Connect | 5 | Acutis (1) |
Tuesday, 26th August
| Session | Time start | Time finish | Module | Year Level | Class Name |
| 1 | 8:50 | 10:20 | Take a breath | 6 | Freeman (1) |
| 2 | 11:10 | 12:40 | Take a breath | 6 | Freeman (2) |
| 3 | 13:00 | 14:30 | Relate, Respect and Connect | 5 | Acutis (2) |