We live an increasing portion of our lives online now, particularly while in the midst of a global pandemic. Technology has been a lifeline during this time, allowing us to keep learning, stay connected to friends, family and classmates, and access support whilst limiting face to face contact to keep each other safe.

Despite this, there are risks and pitfalls to spending more time online that students, parents and carers need to be aware of. This week our focus is on cybersafety.

While we block access to non-educational online services at school, remote learning means that these services are accessible throughout the school day. In many cases, students are using these services to support their learning and wellbeing by interacting with friends and classmates. However, online services can be a vector for cyberbullying, unwanted contact and inappropriate content.

We strongly encourage parents and carers to discuss with their students what apps and services they use, and make sure that they are aware of how to get support if they have negative experiences. To support parents and carers in having these discussions, the eSafety Commissioner has a range of resources for both students and parents. Of particular use is their guide to “hard-to-have conversations”, and the eSafety Guide, helping you stay up to date with the latest apps, games and social media services, what they are used for, and any features to help your student stay safe while using them.

There are also a number of cybersafety webinars coming up for parents and carers, including:

What

When

How to access or register

Parenting in the Digital World

(run by eSmart)

Empower your children and family with skills and strategies to navigate negativity.

Wed 25th Aug 12pm - 1pm

Wed 25th Aug 7.30 - 8.30pm

Access the webinar through these links:

Zoom link or Microsoft Teams link

eSafety's parent guide to popular apps (run by the eSafety Commissioner)

For parents and carers of young people aged 8-13.

Tue 31 Aug 7.30 - 8.30 pm

Mon 6 Sept 12.30 - 1.30 pm

Tue 7 Sept 7.30 - 8.30 pm

Fri 10 Sept 12.30 -1.30 pm

Register here

eSafety's guide to online sexual harassment and image-based abuse (run by the eSafety Commissioner)

For parents and carers of young people aged 13-18.

Tue 7 Sept 12.30 - 1.30 pm

Thur 9 Sept 12.30 - 1.30 pm

Register here

Simon Belluzzo

eLearning and ICT

Tips from the Wellbeing Team