Cyber Safety Project

Parenting is emotionally challenging and simultaneously, joy filled. There are times when parents feel they are beginning to feel in control, aware of their children’s environment and suddenly their children enter a new phase of development, forcing parents to race to the ‘instruction book’ only to find the sage advice not applicable or out of date. In the case of protecting children online, parents can feel completely unskilled and indiscriminately denying children access to the devices that connect them to their peers or ‘their world’; a tactic that only invites arguments and mistrust between parents and children.

Recently, we invited the to present to parents of Years 7, 8 & 9. One of their presentations, Navigating the Digital World Safely was informative, data-supported and engaging. Shared stories, strategies and apps were presented to parents to assist their knowledge of online scams and predatory social media tactics. It was presented how the communication habits of young users of social media apps and online gaming can be easily and undesirably exploited. The engaging presenter, an ex-teacher knew well the emotional and social developmental stage of 12 to 15 years, provided many tips and resources to support parents with teens who use digital spaces, and the advice to help keep young people safe.

Father's Day Breakfast

Last Friday morning, our students accompanied their fathers or significant paternal figures to the annual Father’s Day Breakfast. A supportive community event, slightly different to the previously mentioned presentation, but a similar objective of sharing advice and stories by parents motivated to provide the happiest, safest life for their children. Together we celebrated the love, care and influence of fathers at the breakfast.

To a large, appreciative audience, the career stories of three of our fathers were shared. A barrister, a journalist and a CEO of a charity organisation each described their journey from young, idealistic men focused on improving the world to forging successful careers. In their separate presentations they shared an active social justice focus within their varied careers. During question time the panelists described their appreciation for their children and pointed to the value of equally balancing precious time with their families with their careers. It was a most successful and satisfying community event.

Happy Father's Day!

Ad Altiora

Rachel Valentine
Deputy Principal