Dean of School – Mr Paul Hughes

In 2024 our OLM community is targeting the Mercy value of dignity. One area of life where young people find this value to be challenged or at least somewhat forgotten is in the digital and online world. We know that this part of life is here to stay and it can play a positive role in an adolescent’s development if they, with support, manage this as part of a balanced lifestyle.  

Respecting others and earning respect online as an adolescent involves practising good digital citizenship and cultivating empathy and understanding. Below are some essential tips for adolescents to ensure everyone’s dignity is upheld while using social media:

1. Be Mindful of Your Words and Actions: Remember that what you say and do online can have real consequences. Before posting or commenting, consider how your words might affect others.
2. Treat Others with Kindness and Empathy: Just as you would in face-to-face interactions, be empathetic and considerate of others’ feelings and perspectives. Avoid engaging in cyberbullying or spreading ‘hate speech’.
3. Respect Privacy: Be cautious about sharing personal information, photos, or videos online, not just about yourself but also about others. Respect others’ privacy by not sharing their personal information without permission.
4. Practise Active Listening: When engaging in online discussions or debates, take the time to listen to others’ viewpoints without immediately dismissing them. Constructive dialogue is essential for mutual respect and understanding.
5. Think Before Reacting: If you encounter something online that upsets you, take a step back before responding. Responding impulsively can escalate conflicts and lead to misunderstandings.
6. Seek Permission Before Sharing: If you want to share someone else’s content or information, ask for their permission first. Respect their right to control their own online presence.
7. Stand Up Against Online Harassment: If you witness cyberbullying or harassment, don’t be a bystander. Support the victim and report the behaviour to the appropriate platform or authority.
8. Educate Yourself About Online Etiquette: Stay informed about the latest trends and norms in online behaviour. Understanding digital etiquette will help you navigate online interactions more effectively.
9. Lead by Example: Set a positive example for others by consistently demonstrating respect and kindness in your online interactions. Your behaviour can influence others to do the same.
10. Be Open to Learning and Growing: Recognize that nobody is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes online. Be open to receiving feedback and learning from your experiences to become a better digital citizen.

Year 7 & 8 students had a visit from Senior Constable Adam Taylor who is a Police Liaison Officer for schools and he reinforced the above tips and strategies to avoid the pitfalls of online activity. An event is planned in the coming weeks for our Year 9 & 10 students. 

Additionally, at our recent Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting this topic was discussed  exploring key messages for safe and positive interaction with technology and importantly social media.

By following these guidelines, adolescents can foster a culture of respect and positivity online, ultimately contributing to a safer and more inclusive digital environment for everyone.

If you would like further information about these topics or you have any concerns I encourage you to contact your daughter’s WellBeing Leader (ILW) for more information. 

Collaboration between OLM BUrraneer and DLSCaringbah 

A further exciting initiative that has commenced in Term 2 is the collaborative study groups occurring weekly between Our Lady of Mercy and De La Salle Caringbah Year 11 students. During these sessions staff from both colleges attend to provide support for any upcoming assessment tasks and the end of course examinations that will take place in Term 3. 

We look forward to extending the opportunities for collaboration between both schools that capture opportunities to work and connect over relevant topics for each of our year groups.