Principal's Message

A Message from the Principal

Term 3 Wrap-up

Dear Parents and Carers,

As Term 3 draws to a close, we reflect on the many wonderful opportunities our students have experienced. From engaging excursions that brought learning to life, to the lively discussions at our CAFE meetings on Homework, Term 3 has been filled with growth and connection. Students have engaged in excellent learning across all areas, and we thank parents for their partnership and assistance this term. It has been a busy and rewarding term and we look forward to building on these experiences in Term 4.

Staying Safe: Online and in the Community

Over the past few weeks there has been a lot of discussion around the use of social media by children. 

As children grow, their world expands — both online and in everyday life. Just as we teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, we also need to guide them on how to navigate safely in digital and real-world spaces.

On the Internet

The internet can be a wonderful tool for learning, entertainment and staying connected with friends and family. However, it also opens doors to risks if children are left to explore without guidance. Many children enjoy chatting with friends through online games, social media or messaging apps. Sometimes, these conversations can also include people they don’t actually know in real life. 

As parents ask yourselves:

• Would you let your child wander the streets alone any time of the day or night? 
• Would you allow your child to get into a stranger's car?

• Is it acceptable to you for your child to talk to strangers on the streets or shopping centres?

   

If you answered no to these questions, that is what parents are doing when children are allowed on the internet without being supervised.

As parents, it is important to:

• Know what platforms your child is using — whether it’s gaming sites, apps, or social media.
• Be aware of who they are chatting with — encourage children to only connect online with people they know in person.
• Check privacy settings on apps and devices so personal information isn’t being shared publicly.
• Have regular conversations about what is safe to share online and what should always remain private (like addresses, schools, phone numbers, or photos).

• Encourage openness — children should feel they can tell you if something online makes them uncomfortable, worried, or confused.

   

Just as you would not let your child wander unsupervised in a busy shopping centre, play on the streets or talk to strangers, children should not be left alone to navigate the internet without some level of supervision and guidance.

The Common Thread: Communication

Whether it is online or face-to-face, the key is open and ongoing conversations. Encourage your child to tell you where they are going, who they are talking to and what they are doing. Reassure them that they can always come to you if something doesn’t feel right.

Together, by setting boundaries, keeping communication open, and teaching children to make wise choices, we can help them grow in independence while ensuring their safety.

Resources for Parents

For more information and practical advice, you can visit:

• eSafety Commissioner – Online Safety for Parents

• Raising Children Network – Internet Safety

   

A Shared Goal

At StMM’s, our shared goal is to help children grow into confident, safe and responsible young people — both in the online world and in the community. Together, we can guide them to make good choices, develop resilience and live out the values of respect, responsibility and care for others.

Term Dates 

Term 4

The term dates for term four will be sent to parents next week. These dates will also be available on Compass.

Wishing all families a safe and restful end of term three break and I look forward to another exciting and a term filled with learning and positive connections.

Kind regards,

Grace Carlo-Stella

Principal