As we end our first semester of learning for the year, it is important that we continue to address some of the Pastoral and Wellbeing issues that often impact on the learning and wellbeing of our students. One area of significance, particularly in light of the potential implications for our current Covid situation, is that relating to Technology, esafety and screen time. Our experience over the past 18 months has provided circumstances and opportunities for all of us to engage more in Streaming Services (such as Netflix), a broader range of Social Media apps (Zoom, House Party etc) and an increased reliance on our digital devices to maintain contact with our work or school colleagues and friends. 

The ever changing landscape of technology and social media brings with it newer and unique challenges, many of which do not come with a simple users manual. The Federal Government esafety Commissioner’s website is a reliable point of call for any student or family member who may require some information regarding the many of the questions that are often raised courtesy of new technologies and services. Questions such as:

• How much screen time should my son or daughter have each day?
• How do I provide a safe and secure Social Media environment for my child?
• What sorts of apps are out there and what do they do?
• What are the laws regarding age of consent for using Social Media apps?

The following links to the esafety Comissioner’s site may assist with being able to investigate and find answers to some of the issues that may confront families from time to time relating to cyber safety. 

esafety guide to games, apps and social media

esafety parents tips

esafety online safety basics

Also, as we head into a well earned break after a term of classroom learning, assessment tasks, reports and again a challenging Covid environment, sometimes the resilience of our children can be tested. If you have concerns over the wellbeing of your son or daughter, please do not hesitate to contact the College for support. Alternatively, if a concern arises external to the school setting, the following agencies are recommended by our Catholic Care Counselling team for assistance. Click on the images to access the sites. 

Finally, please check the expectations regarding Uniform and Grooming prior to your son/daughter’s return to Term Three. Students who return to the College and are not meeting these expectations experience significant disruption to their learning. Please assist us with ensuring that uniform and grooming standards are met at the commencement of the term.

Thanks again to all members of the Mount Carmel Community for your ongoing support with the Learning and Wellbeing of our students.

Mr Simon Huntly
Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Coordinator