School Holidays Student Safety

With the school holidays coming up soon, we want to remind families about how to keep children safe when they are not at school. Here are some helpful tips and information.

Safety talks before school holidays

To help prepare, teachers will be having special safety talks with students before the holidays begin. We will discuss ways to stay safe in the community, online, and when travelling. We ask parents to talk to their child about what they have been told to reinforce these safety messages.

Being unsupervised – parks and shopping centres

During the holidays, children often want to visit parks or shopping centres with friends.
We sometimes hear from the community about children being alone in these places.
Being unsupervised can be unsafe - children may get hurt or have disagreements.
Please make sure your child is not alone in busy public places.
If they go out with friends, make sure you know where they are and who is with them.
School age students should be supervised by an adult

Conflicts outside of school

Sometimes children have arguments or problems outside of school, like at parks or online.
School staff sometimes need to help resolve these problems after the holidays.
Sometimes, serious issues may involve the police.
Please talk to your child about how to be respectful and solve problems peacefully.
If your child has a problem, encourage them to talk to you or another trusted adult.

Bikes and scooters

Many students enjoy riding bikes and scooters during the holidays.
Please make sure your child always wears a helmet.
Remind your child to use safe paths and follow road rules.
Children should always walk their bikes or scooters in busy places.
Remind your child to lock their bike or scooter if left somewhere.

Technology – safe use at home and out of school

Children may use phones, tablets, and computers more during the holidays.
Please check what your child is doing online.
Set rules about how long they can use devices and which apps or games are okay.
Remind your child not to talk to strangers online or share personal information.
If anything online makes your child feel worried, encourage them to talk to you or another trusted adult.

Safety around water

Many families visit pools, beaches, or rivers during the holidays.
Please supervise your child closely when they are near water.
Make sure children swim only in safe areas and follow any posted safety signs.
Remind children not to go into water alone and to stay with friends or family.
If your child is not a confident swimmer, make sure they wear appropriate flotation devices and stay in shallow areas.
Talk to your child about what to do if they see someone in trouble – always call for help and never try to rescue someone alone.

How parents can help

Know where your child is during the holidays.
Talk to your child about being safe and making good choices.
Check what your child does online.
Remind your child to ask for help if they feel unsafe or worried.

We want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday. If you have any questions or need help, please contact the school.

Thank you for your support.