Student Wellbeing 

As part of their ongoing commitment to fostering responsible digital citizens, the Grade 6 cohort at Brookside College recently participated in an information session focused on navigating the world of social media in a responsible and positive way. With the growing influence of online platforms, the session aimed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to safely engage in the digital world while fostering healthy and respectful online relationships.

Led by the Caroline Springs Proactive Police Unit (PPU), the session covered a range of important topics, to help students understand the impact of their online actions and make informed decisions when interacting with social media.

 Key areas of focus included:

• Digital Footprints: Students learned about the long-lasting nature of their online presence and how every post, photo, and comment contributes to their digital footprint. They explored the importance of making mindful choices about what they share online.

   

• Understanding Privacy: The session highlighted the importance of protecting personal information and respecting the privacy of others. Students were guided on how to manage their privacy settings on social media platforms and why keeping personal details safe is crucial.

   

• Recognising Online Risks and Staying Safe: Students discussed common online risks such as cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and online scams. They were provided with strategies to stay safe, including how to spot warning signs of potential dangers and how to protect themselves from harm.

   

• Building Positive Online Relationships: The importance of kindness, respect, and empathy in digital interactions was emphasized. Students were encouraged to communicate positively and supportively online, just as they would in person, and to be mindful of the impact their words can have on others.

   

• How to Report and Respond to Cyberbullying: With cyberbullying becoming an increasing concern, students were taught how to recognise when someone is being bullied online and the steps to take in order to report and address it. They also learned about the importance of standing up for others and being responsible digital citizens.

   

• Repercussions of Inappropriate Social Media Use: Lastly, students explored the potential consequences of using social media inappropriately, from harming personal reputations to facing disciplinary actions. The session stressed that digital actions, much like real-life actions, have real-world consequences.

The session also provided students with practical tools for navigating social media safely and also helped them understand the broader implications of their digital actions. By promoting digital literacy and responsible behaviour, Brookside College is ensuring that its students are well-prepared to thrive in an increasingly connected world.

The session complimented the curriculum taught in Health at grade 6 and students were provided opportunity at the end to ask a range of questions about the presentation. The school continues to support our students in becoming responsible and respectful digital citizens, both now and in the future.

Gretel van Wyngaarden

Engagement and Wellbeing Team