Wellbeing Supports Update

SchoolTV

Each week we will be sharing resources from SchoolTV in line with what is happening in our school environment. 

In this edition of SchoolTV - Special Report:Mobile Phone Separation Anxiety

Many families are facing the very real challenge of addressing mobile phone separation anxiety in their children. Banning mobile phones in schools has become a topic of intense debate worldwide, including in Australia. Many schools have implemented comprehensive bans on mobile phones during school hours. Critics argue against the effectiveness of such bans, but numerous studies provide evidence of their positive impacts.

One such study conducted in 2016 revealed that schools with mobile phone bans experienced a significant increase in student performance, with test scores improving by approximately 6.4% of a standard deviation. This improvement was equivalent to adding five additional days to the school year or an extra hour of learning per week. The positive effects were particularly notable among low-achieving students. Similar studies conducted in Spain and Norway have consistently supported these findings.

It is crucial to acknowledge this issue and engage in open discussions about the negative effects of phone addiction. Parents and caregivers can use various strategies to help minimise the impact of such bans whilst safeguarding their child’s mental health and wellbeing. Maintaining open communication with your school is essential. It is important to stay informed and collaborate with educators to develop effective strategies for supporting children during the adjustment period.

While addressing mobile phone separation anxiety is challenging, implementing such bans in schools allows for better focus on teaching and learning, minimising distractions and interruptions. The evidence of improved student performance and the need to address the negative impacts of excessive phone use emphasise the importance of parental involvement in promoting healthy phone habits and supporting children through this transition.

Here is the link to this week's topic: https://mcsc.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-mobile-phone-separation-anxiety 

The Mordialloc College Difference     

Working Together for Student success

At Mordialloc College, we believe students achieve their best when families, students, and the school, work together in a supportive and consistent way. Our approach to wellbeing is built around strong relationships, shared understanding, and clear communication.

We use a collaborative model called the “Triangle of Engagement,” which places the student at the centre of a partnership between home and school. This approach helps ensure students feel supported both academically and emotionally, while also encouraging them to take increasing responsibility for their own growth and progress.

Every student’s needs are different, so support plans are tailored to the individual. Together, families, staff, and students identify clear goals and agree on practical strategies that will help the student succeed. These goals may relate to learning, attendance, emotional wellbeing, confidence, behaviour, or social connection.

An important part of this process is helping students develop a sense of ownership. Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress, communicate openly, and recognise the important role they play in achieving positive outcomes. At the same time, the school provides guidance, structure, and ongoing support, while families help reinforce routines, encouragement, and consistency at home.

What makes this approach effective is the shared commitment between everyone involved. Regular check-ins allow progress to be reviewed, successes celebrated, and strategies adjusted if needed. This ensures support remains flexible and responsive as students grow and their needs change.

Beyond immediate goals, this model also helps students build important lifelong skills such as resilience, accountability, confidence, and self-awareness. By working together in a respectful and collaborative way, students learn they are supported, capable, and not expected to navigate challenges alone.

At Mordialloc College, we value the importance of strong partnerships with families and recognise that meaningful progress happens when students feel connected, understood, and supported by the people around them.