Refer SMH Article 25 September 2024

Key Points

• Bullying is learned behaviour that’s intentional, aggressive and about power.
• There is no one type of bully or single cause. But bullying is about asserting power, and children who are bullied often become bullies themselves.
• Starting young, and teaching children about self-worth and respectful friendships, are important.
• Don’t play the blame game, and approach conversations with empathy.

A report from May this year found that Australian students are bullied at rates higher than comparable English-speaking countries, with one in six students saying they had been made fun of at school. The latest figures from UNESCO estimate that one in three students around the world are bullied each day. Language matters

Language matters, too, when talking about conflict. “Children will often use the words ‘just’ and ‘only’,” says Barbara. “They’ll say, ‘I’m just messing around’, or, ‘we’re only kidding’.

“I suggest that teachers and the parents start eliminating those words from the conversation because they trivialise the behaviours.” Judging the appropriate time for longer talks – particularly for teens who might be turned off by bigger pep talks – is key, says Yap. A small comment, such as “I know that you are usually such a caring person”, can go a long way. “It’s still affirming to them that, ‘I see more in you’ and ‘I’m just calling it out. I’m not going to judge you or criticise you for it, but I know you’re capable of doing better.”

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The Year 12 Graduation Day was a memorable and emotional event for students, staff, and families alike. Year 12 students were greeted in front of the La Valla centre for a morning tea and a chance to speak with Year 11 leaders and teachers as they commenced their final day at the College. Mass saw a number of Year 12s contribute to readings and processions inclusive of a blessing provided by Year 7 students to the Year 7 cohort. Father Shane delivered an inspiring homily based on the Gospel message of "shaking the dust off their feet," encouraging students to embrace new beginnings with confidence and grace. The Year 12 were farewelled with vivid cultural performances from various members of the student population and were dismissed by a Year 11 guard of honour.

During the Awards Ceremony, the excellent attitude and representation of the Year 12 cohort were evident. The Year 12 captains gave heartfelt speeches, reminding their peers of the challenges they faced and the triumphs they achieved together. Mr Lo Cascio encouraged Year 12 to remember the goal at the commencement of the year, to ‘get off the couch’ and seize their opportunities as they move towards their HSC examinations. The words served as a powerful reflection on their journey and the bright future ahead. Students’ efforts and talents were celebrated through many awards that recognised outstanding contributions in various fields. 

The day was a true celebration of the students' hard work, resilience, and success as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Term 4 Reminders 

Uniform, Grooming and College Expectations

As outlined and discussed during your child's enrolment: 

• Summer Uniform: A change from winter to summer uniform brings a wonderful time for families to review the uniform and grooming policy of the College. Please consider the following points moving into Term 4: 

• • Please check skirt and dress lengths for girls
  • Ensure that all grooming policies are observed about haircuts no shorter than level two blend (This clipper size cuts to a length of ¼ inches — 5/16 inches if it’s open). Haircuts should be blended on both sides of the hair and not invite comments such as the contemporary Mullet which has been in popular media. 
  • No patterns or gaps shaved into the eyebrows or hairstyles
  • No false eyelashes, permanent or semi-permanent eyelash extensions or nails
  • No facial piercings 

• Bathroom Breaks: Students are not permitted to use bathrooms in-between classes and are expected to make contact with their classroom teacher rather than coming in late to class, please support teachers by reiterating this expectation over the holidays
• Phone Use: The use of the mobile phone during school hours (8:45-3:15) is not permitted and a teacher has the right to confiscate the phone when it is used inappropriately during school hours. Parents are reminded to use the College front office to get in contact with students and to refrain from calling or messaging the students during school hours so that this expectation can be consistently upheld by all parties within the community and the student's focus remains on their learning during the school day. This is integral as we experience more and more impact of social media and increasing struggles with emotional regulation amongst our teens.