Junior School Update

Wellbeing: primary school students and social media use – the importance of conversation  

The stable door is open, and the horse is a distant figure on the horizon when it comes to social media and young people. We can’t put the horse back, but we can make sure it’s safe. The fact is that our children are still vulnerable despite the efforts of social media platforms who put in place privacy settings, content moderation, and age verification as standard practice, as well as the efforts of parents to monitor their children’s online behaviours (not to mention educators’ tireless campaigns to instil responsible digital literacy). The key to keeping them safe and responsible is open and candid conversation. Within the parameters of age-appropriateness, it is important that children understand the whys as well as the whats. E.g. they know they shouldn’t friend strangers, but do they know that it’s because it poses a risk of being groomed? These conversations are never one-offs. Please take time to have regular chats with your child about what they’re doing online, who they’re friends with and what they’re seeing.  

Managing Screen Time 

The Big Life Journal is an excellent resource for parents. In the latest blog, there is helpful information to help parents negotiate screen time with their children. The resource is pictured here. 

Fun in Year 1 and 2 

Year 1 and 2 have been learning to describe the weather and seasons. These super scientists investigated the concept that different places have different weather patterns and explored how activities in places change according to the weather. They made a diorama to represent their favourite season. Next, they will present and record a ‘weather update’ for the local news. 

SYDSA Beachside Division Swimming Achievement  

Last Friday, the SSV Beachside Division Swimming 2024 was held at the Oakleigh Recreation Centre and Shelford was represented by Anna K in Year 6. We are so proud to share that Anna achieved first place and a division record (38.37s) in 50m Breaststroke and second place in the 50m Backstroke! Congratulations Anna and best wishes for the regional competition on Wednesday March 27. 

Science Talent Search  

Junior School students (Years 3 to 6) are invited to apply to participate in STAV's annual Science Talent Search. This year's theme is Species Survival: More than Just Sustainability. As only a limited number of projects can be entered, students need to submit a proposal that must include the chosen category, the title of the project, and an outline of the project idea using dot points. Further details may be found on Shelly HERE 

Vicky Gemmell

Head of Junior School – Student Wellbeing and Development

Jacqui Sidaway

Head of Junior School – Teaching and Learning