Message from the Leader of Wellbeing
Welcome back for the 2020 academic year!
Students have embraced our new Mobile Phone Policy
After much consultation and review, the College has successfully introduced our new Mobile Phone Policy.
Current research indicates that while there are many benefits provided by technological devices such as smart phones, they can also have an adverse effect on developing adolescents. Research suggests that mobile phones can have a negative impact on student learning and socialisation and can have a number of psychological, social and health repercussions. In fact, there is a growing body of evidence that excessive mobile use may impair brain structure and function.
With this in mind, the College is seeking to promote a more positive and supportive environment for staff and students with the implementation of the new policy. As a result, we have already noticed a significant improvement in social interactions and relationships on the playground and in classrooms. The playground is certainly a much louder place and we look forward to reaping the long term benefits of this!
Our students have been most receptive to this new policy, as these comments demonstrate:
“The new mobile phone policy allows face-to-face communication with friends and fellow students at lunch and recess, instead of being confined to looking at social media.” Tiana Year 10
“I think the new phone policy is a good opportunity for people to interact with each other and to focus on their studies.” Katerina Year 7
“The no phone policy has positively impacted school life, as it has increased face-to-face student interaction.” Grace Year 8
“I have noticed that since the Mobile Phone Policy was introduced, I have become more focused during school time. With my phone out of the way, I am no longer constantly looking at it waiting for the next notification.” Antonia Year 11
“The Phone Policy challenges us to be off our phones all day, but especially during recess and lunch. Everyone now talks to each other and communicates without any contact with phones.” Annaliese Year 12
“The Phone Policy allows us to remain more focused in class time, and not be distracted by or tempted to use our phones where it is unnecessary.” Olivia Year 12
Attendance matters – and every school day counts!
There is a strong correlation between student wellbeing and attendance, particularly a student’s sense of belonging within a College community. Furthermore, a student’s pattern of school attendance plays a significant role in their achievement and connectivity.
The College, in partnership with parents and carers, shares responsibility for promoting the regular attendance of students. At the College, your daughters Pastoral Care teacher and Year Coordinator monitor attendance regularly. They will make contact with you if we have concerns about your daughter’s pattern of attendance.
We are concerned with a student’s attendance pattern when:
- There are two or more days absent over a two-week period;
- The days have fallen on a Monday, after holidays, school camps or after sports days.
We believe it is essential that students build and maintain a positive attendance pattern and we encourage open communication between families and the College on this matter.
Anne Sukkar
Leader of Wellbeing
