DIRECTOR OF STUDENTS

CYBER SAFETY WITH SUSAN MCLEAN

Susan McLean from Cyber Safety Solutions, an expert in the area of Cyber safety, presented information to our Years 7, 8 and 9 students. Susan was a member of the Victorian Police Force and trained with the FBI and has extensive experience with internet crime and keeping children safe online. She is also a published author.

During the presentation, Susan pointed out to students that the online world is an adult world; young people do not have the maturity to navigate the complexities of this world. She challenged students to stop and think about what they do online, understand the risks, and avoid potential harm. Susan praised parents who set clear boundaries and are comfortable to say, ‘no’.

Students were presented with personal qualities that should be adhered to when interacting online, which included:

  • Be kind.
  • Be part of a team and work together.
  • Be brave, have courage to ask for help because silence gives people power over you.
  • Be responsible with posting photos and information.
  • Consider your digital footprint for future opportunities of employment (nothing can be deleted from social media and you are never anonymous).

Susan explained to our younger students that the minimum age for social media is 13 years and that lying about their age is not a responsible choice. She gave students helpful advice about online interactions and keeping themselves safe when encountering situations where they may feel pressured. 

Susan also spoke to the students about managing their social media accounts by choosing appropriate names for the account, having a general picture as their profile picture, have updated privacy settings, consider what they like, deleting old accounts and, most importantly, never sharing passwords with friends.

Susan left the students with a powerful final message, “You are worth more that a number. Don’t see your self-worth as the number of likes from a post on social media”.

The e-Safety Commissioner website www.esafety.gov.au/parents is a useful site for parents/guardians to access for further information regarding Cyber Safety.

CAMPS/RETREATS

I would like to thank the Pastoral Team who planned and lead the camps/retreats program in Week 10:

  • Meg Henderson – Year 7 Camp
  • Jordan Stewart – Year 8 Camp
  • Lucy Towers – Year 9 Camp
  • Jodie Roberts – Year 10 Camp
  • Jaimee Seebohm – Year 11 Camp

The huge smiles and joyous energy from returning students was clear evidence of a very successful program. 

I am also very grateful to all staff who gave up their time to attend camps this week. Our teams worked around the clock to ensure that each student had a great experience. As a result, students were able to step outside their comfort zone to achieve things that are impossible in the classroom. The memories our students have made will be ones they will cherish for years to come.

I wish all students and families a very happy and safe mid-year break.

Maria Franettovich

DIRECTOR OF STUDENTS