Principal's Report

Preparation for examinations, final assessments, and Step Up is certainly the focus across the College at the moment. Our Year 12 students are almost finished their final examinations, while our Year 10 and 11 students are about to begin theirs. Year 9 examinations will commence next week.

Following this, our whole school community will move into Step Up. In essence, this is the beginning of our 2027 curriculum, with Year 7 students transitioning into Year 8, Year 8 into Year 9, and so on.

This initiative has been implemented in response to parent feedback regarding learning opportunities and engagement at the end of the school year. Step Up provides students and staff with an opportunity for a fresh start and a positive reset as they prepare for the year ahead. Every minute of learning matters, and all students are expected to attend throughout the Step Up program. Staff will work closely with students to ensure they are supported through these important transitions and adjustments.

Last week, our Year 10 students participated in the Living Justice, Living Peace program at the Brigidine Campus. Students had the opportunity to hear from several inspiring speakers who generously shared their personal stories, experiences, and journeys.

Programs such as Living Justice, Living Peace are an important part of a St Joseph's education. Families choose St Joseph's because of our commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures students academically, spiritually and socially. These faith and community-based experiences play a significant role in helping students develop empathy, understanding and a sense of responsibility to others.

We greatly appreciate the support of families in ensuring students participate in these opportunities wherever possible. By working together in partnership, we can provide the very best outcomes for all students and strengthen the sense of community that is central to life at St Joseph's.

We are also currently seeking feedback from families regarding the possibility of introducing overnight restrictions on student laptops. The aim of this initiative is to support healthy sleep habits, encourage positive digital wellbeing, and ensure students are well rested and ready to engage in learning each day.

We look forward to sharing more information about this proposal in the coming weeks and will also be discussing the approach with students as part of the consultation process.

Mobile Phones and Personal Electronic Devices – Changes for 2027

From the beginning of the 2027 school year, new requirements under Victorian Ministerial Order No. 1515 will apply to students' use of personal electronic devices during school hours. 

In line with Kildare Education Ministries' approach, St Joseph's College will be implementing a consistent 'off, stored and out of reach' expectation to help minimise distractions, support student learning and wellbeing, and create opportunities for greater face-to-face connection throughout the school day.

Under the updated requirements:

• Mobile phones: Must be switched off and stored securely in approved storage for the entire school day, including recess and lunch. Phones cannot be carried in pockets or school bags, or accessed between classes.
• Smartwatches and wearable devices: Notifications, cellular connections and recording functions must be switched off. Smartwatches and other wearables with cellular, camera or audio recording capabilities must also be stored securely with mobile phones.
• Smart glasses: Must be switched off and stored securely during school hours and all school activities.
• Headphones and earbuds: Personal audio devices cannot be used during school hours, including recess and lunch, unless a specific permitted use or exemption applies.

These requirements are designed to reduce distractions, protect student and staff privacy, minimise online safety risks and encourage students to engage more fully in their learning, friendships and College community.

Supporting students and families

We recognise that many families want their child to have a mobile phone for communication and safety when travelling to and from school. Students may still bring their phones to school; however, they must be switched off and placed in approved secure storage before the school day begins. They remain stored until the end of the school day.

We also recognise that some students may require access to personal devices for specific learning, health or wellbeing needs. Exemptions may be considered in accordance with the policy, with appropriate approval and documentation.

If parents or carers need to contact their child during school hours, they should do so through the College office. Similarly, students who need to contact home can seek assistance from a staff member or the front office.

Further information about the College's arrangements, including approved storage procedures and expectations for 2027, will be shared with families ahead of the new school year.

We appreciate the support of our families as we work together to establish healthy digital habits and create a learning environment where students can be present, connected and engaged.

Anne Marie Cairns

Principal