Principal
Aaron Cox
Principal
Notable Behaviours Beyond the School Walls – Lead the way
We wish to draw your attention to a growing concern regarding unsocial and, at times, unsafe behaviour occurring outside of school hours, both in person and online. While we are pleased that families feel confident reporting these matters to us, we must respectfully reiterate that such incidents, particularly those taking place beyond school supervision or on external digital platforms, fall outside the school’s jurisdiction to investigate or resolve.
Notably, some families have expressed a desire to escalate serious online incidents to Victoria Police. We support this course of action where appropriate and remind our community that this is a parental responsibility and prerogative.
Renowned child cyber safety expert, Susan McLean, consistently warns that “children don’t belong on many social media platforms due to the risks they pose,” and she reminds parents that “you wouldn’t let your child go to a nightclub at 2am—so why let them roam freely online without supervision?” Alarming as it may be, 100% of the reported incidents to us involve apps that are explicitly not age-appropriate for primary-aged students.
We strongly encourage all families to remain actively involved in their children’s digital lives. Please make time to:
Know what apps your child is using.
Talk about safe and respectful behaviour online.
Monitor usage and set parental controls.
Set boundaries around screen time and device access.
For practical support, we recommend the following trusted resources:
ThinkUKnow – a police-run initiative providing education about online safety.
Susan McLean’s Cyber Safety Solutions – includes checklists, device tips and FAQs.
We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing safe, respectful and responsible behaviours both online and offline.
Wise Words by Michael Grose – We are here for the students
Effective Discipline: Teaching, Not Punishing
Discipline can sometimes feel like a tough part of parenting, bringing to mind difficult moments involving raised voices or ineffective lectures. Yet, according to parenting expert Michael Grose, true discipline isn't about punishment, it's about teaching children self-control, responsibility, and emotional intelligence.
Based on extensive research in child psychology, neuroscience and education, Michael Grose highlights practical discipline strategies that every parent can use effectively at home:
Connect Before You Correct – Children cooperate best when they feel understood and secure. A simple, empathetic connection helps kids become receptive.
Define Expected Behaviours – Clearly outlining your expectations before new social situations, helps children adjust their behaviour appropriately.
Set Clear, Calm Instructions – Clearly stated, simple family rules reduce confusion and conflict.
Use Descriptive Praise – Highlighting specific positive behaviours encourages repetition of desirable actions.
Natural Consequences Teach Best – Allow safe, age-appropriate natural consequences to help children learn from real-world experiences.
Try Time-In – Stay close during emotional episodes, teaching emotional regulation rather than isolation.
Offer Structured Choices – Providing limited, controlled choices fosters cooperation and reduces power struggles.
When/Then Strategy – Clearly linking responsibilities to rewards ("When you finish homework, then you can play") reinforces accountability without punishment.
Countdowns and Visuals for Transitions – Using visual timers or countdowns helps children manage transitions smoothly.
Model Desired Behaviours – Kids imitate adult behaviours, so demonstrating calm, respectful reactions teaches them how to respond appropriately.
Use "I" Statements – Expressing your feelings clearly without blaming the child fosters understanding and collaboration.
Repair and Reflect After Conflict – Admitting your mistakes and openly discussing conflicts helps children develop empathy and resilience.
Michael Grose emphasizes that effective discipline is calm, connected and consistent. It isn't about raising obedient children, but nurturing responsible and emotionally intelligent young people. Every small effort counts.
For more insights and strategies from Michael Grose, visit: Parenting Ideas
Other notable events next week and the week after:
Monday 9th June is a pupil free day for the King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Year 2-4 swimming lessons begin for two straight weeks.
Preps will have a RSPCA excursion
Year 6s will start Unleashing Personal Potential on Wednesday 18th June