From the Principal

Proposed Ban on Social Media for Children Under 16

There is no doubt many of you have heard about the recent debate related to banning social media for people under the age of 16. There is no question in my mind about how difficult it is for us to navigate an ever-evolving landscape that is technology. 

The use of AI has also been another complicated inclusion in this landscape and ultimately in this whole debate. The proposals are an attempt at reshaping how young people engage with social media and the proposed ban is sparking widespread debate and concern amongst parents, educators and policy makers. At Lakeside College we spend a lot of time and resources addressing the issues that emerge out of the irresponsible use of social media with our students. We integrate education about responsible technological citizenship and have conducted a number of incursions with our students to bring the message home even further. 

In examining this issue, it is important to understand the rationale behind the proposal. Put simply, the proposed ban stems from growing concerns over the negative effects of social media on young minds. Research increasingly suggests that excessive use of social media can contribute to issues such as cyberbullying, decreased self-esteem, anxiety and disrupted sleep patterns. By restricting access to these platforms, proponents argue that children may experience fewer mental health challenges and have more time for real-world interactions and academic pursuits. Something of note that strikes a significant chord for me is the reliance teenagers place on this form of communication, rather than taking part in real-life and real-time conversations. Furthermore, there seems to be a reluctance in some of our young people to recognise that conversing via text message or other forms of social media, we can sometimes fail to convey our emotions and feelings accurately. This, of course, opens the door to all sorts of misinterpretation, assumptions and can sometimes lead to pain and conflict to young people.  

Supporters of the ban emphasise the need to protect children from potentially harmful content and interactions online. They believe that delaying access to social media until later adolescence can foster healthier development and reduce the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards perpetuated by online platforms.

Conversely, opponents argue that a blanket ban may not effectively address the underlying issues. They suggest that education and parental guidance are crucial in helping children navigate social media responsibly rather than outright prohibition. Some also express concerns about infringing on personal freedoms and limiting opportunities for positive online engagement, such as educational resources and creative expression.

Should the proposal be enacted, families would need to consider alternative ways for their children to stay connected and entertained online. This could include exploring age-appropriate alternatives to social media, such as educational apps and supervised online communities. It may also prompt discussions within households about digital literacy, privacy and healthy technology habits.

Regardless of the outcome, our role remains pivotal in guiding our children's digital experiences. At Lakeside College we will continue to integrate digital literacy skills into the curriculum, teaching students how to critically evaluate online information and navigate social media responsibly if they have access. Parents are encouraged to maintain open communication with their children about their online activities and set clear boundaries that align with their family values.

As a school community, we are committed to supporting both students and families in adapting to potential changes in social media regulations. We will keep you informed as this proposal progresses and provide resources to help you navigate these important conversations at home.

In the meantime, we encourage you to stay engaged with your child's online experiences, monitor their screen time and prioritise offline activities that promote physical, emotional and social well-being. It is only through working together that we can ensure our children grow up in a balanced digital environment that supports their overall development.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Your partnership is invaluable as we work together to nurture the next generation in a rapidly evolving digital age.

God’s Promise of Hope

The theme for the last week of Term 2 was God’s promise of hope. Hope is an interesting feeling when one considers it.. Many of us hope for different things and when we feel discouraged or fearful, we need God’s help to lift our heads, hearts and hands to God. 

Ezekiel 17:22-24 (NIV)

“‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it; I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain. On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it; it will produce branches and bear fruit and become a splendid cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches. All the trees of the forest will know that I the Lord bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish. I the Lord have spoken, and I will do it.’”

Reflection:

In Ezekiel's prophecy, God uses the imagery of a cedar to illustrate His sovereign power and care over His people. The cedar represents strength, stability and growth. God promises to take a tender sprig from the top of this majestic tree and plant it on a high mountain in Israel. This act symbolises God's intentional planting of His people in a place of prominence and blessing.

Just as God promised to make this small sprig into a splendid cedar that would provide shelter and nourishment for birds, He promises to nurture and bless His people abundantly. God's work is not only about growth but also about transformation. He brings down the proud and lifts up the humble. He nourishes what seems dry and breathes life into what seems withered.

As Lutherans, we understand that God's promises are sure. He speaks, and He fulfills. We are reminded that our lives, like the cedar, are firmly planted by God Himself. In Him, we find our strength and our purpose. As we abide in Him, we grow and bear fruit, becoming a blessing to others and a testament to His faithfulness.

As we head toward the two-week break let us pray;

Gracious God, we thank you for planting us securely in your love and care. Help us to grow in faith and in the knowledge of your Word.

 May our lives be a reflection of your glory, bearing fruit that honours you. 

Give us strength and perseverance, knowing that you are always with us. In times of trial, remind us of your promises and fill us with your peace. 

We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

In Christ,

Robert Tassoni

Principal