From the Assistant Principal – Mrs Harding
Dear Parents and Carers,
Students have settled well into the 2023 academic year and the term has been extremely busy with a variety of learning opportunities given to our girls on a regular basis. With the school holidays approaching and the possible increased use of social media platforms it is important that parents and carers are aware of organisations that give safe and authorised information to parents in ensuring the online safety of children.
eSafety
eSafety is an independent statutory office supported by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The website provides a wide range of online safety programs and resources for students and parents. eSafety has a range of regulatory functions and powers, which aim to safeguard Australians at risk of online harms and promote safer, more positive online experiences.
How much screen time is too much?
Signs that your daughter’s online activity may be having a negative impact on her or on your family include:
- less interest in social activities like meeting friends or playing sport
- not doing so well at school
- tiredness, sleep disturbance, headaches, eye strain
- changes in eating patterns
- reduced personal hygiene
- obsession with particular websites or games
- extreme anger when being asked to take a break from online activity
- appearing anxious or irritable when away from the computer
- becoming withdrawn from friends and family
What to do if you are concerned – ask questions and listen
- Some of the behavioural changes described above are a normal part of growing up but, if you are concerned your daughter is struggling, try to find out why — there may be underlying issues such as cyberbullying, friendship difficulties or mental health issues.
- As part of your conversation, ask your daughter about how much time she spends online and explain why it is worrying and what she could be missing out on.
- Try not to show that you disapprove or she might shut down communication altogether.
- Talking to your daughter’s school may also reveal academic or social issues, and the school may also be able to provide support
Set boundaries for digital device use in your home. Device-free zones and times can help you manage screen time. For example, your family plan could include rules like this:
- no devices in the bedroom for younger children
- all screens off in bedrooms after a certain time for older children
- all screens off at least one hour before planned bedtime
- all family members switch off at dinner time
- devices charged overnight in a place your child cannot access
Further information can be found on the e-safety Commissioner website.
A couple of reminders for Term 1 and the commencement of Term 2:
Student Diary
The school diary provides an opportunity for teachers and parents to communicate. Parents are encouraged to make regular checks of the diary and to use the diary as a means of communicating with teachers. Take some time to look at the back section too – the movement log.
Student Absence
To comply with the Education Act, an attendance note must be put on your daughter’s Compass within 7 days of a her absence, after which time the absence will be recorded as unexplained. Days absent without explanation will be recorded on student reports.
Term 1 concludes on Wednesday 5 April
Our last day of Term 1 classes will be Wednesday 5 April. The day will be a normal school day with all classes going ahead. All students are expected to attend the day.
Staff Professional Learning Day – Thursday 6 April
Thursday 6 April will be a Staff Professional Learning Day. As a result there will be NO formal classes on this day and students will NOT be required to attend school. Please contact the College if you require supervision for your daughter.
Staff Professional Learning Day – Monday 24 April
Monday 24 April will be a Staff Professional Learning Day. As a result there will be NO formal classes on this day and students will NOT be required to attend school. Tuesday 25 April is the ANZAC Day public holiday. Students will return to classes on Wednesday 26 April, Day 3 of their timetable. Any families who anticipate difficulties with arranging appropriate supervision for their daughter on Monday 24 April are asked to notify the College.
Term 2 Winter Uniform Transition
To accommodate for the weather fluctuations at the start of Term 2, from Wednesday 26 April until Friday 12 May, students will be given a daily choice of uniform to wear based on the weather and personal preference as long as it is one of the two below:
- Students can continue to wear the full Summer Uniform that includes the Blazer as an optional item and Socks, no stockings. (The jumper cannot be worn with this uniform, including at school).
- Students can choose to wear the full Winter Uniform that includes the Blazer and Stockings as compulsory items (The jumper can be worn with this uniform as long as the Blazer is the outer garment when coming to school and leaving school).
It is important to note that students cannot combine aspects of the Summer and Winter uniform. As of Monday 15 May all students must wear the full Winter Uniform on a daily basis. We thank all parents for your support of our College uniform regulations and welcome you to call us if you are having any difficulties with ensuring your daughter is in the correct uniform.
