News & Events
From the Acting Principal
On-track for Online
Since our last College newsletter, a fortnight ago, we have lived the exceptional beauty of ‘diversity’, one of our four values at St Paul’s College.
National Reconciliation Week was most pivotal in our community’s ongoing commitment to genuine Reconciliation. Additionally, we have celebrated Carnevale as our Italian language program came to life. Only two weeks, and so much to show for.
While we live our commitment to relationship and respect for diversity each day, social media continues to challenge this commitment when we seek the worst of ourselves and others. For its many benefits, we also understand that criticism and negativity feed on social media, the standard communication for society, and yet a challenging medium to navigate for young people as the grow up, learn about themselves and establish their identity.
Often families and staff alike are supporting young people with challenging behavioral choices made online and on social media. Education about online safety and positive online behaviors, is something that the classroom and society must continue to prioritise.
In doing so, we must have forthright conversations with young people and ensure transparency if they are using online applications and social media.
Social Media Resource – Helping parents with an enormous task!
Recently, I have worked with Tasmin London, Executive Director of ySafe. Yasmin and ySafe are especially helpful in their diverse approach to this complex issue of online safety.
Their website is an ‘Online Safety Hub’ and unlike so many other websites that address online safety, it provides clear and concise information:
“Children today are growing up in an increasingly online world and it's essential that we are doing all that we can to support and guide their digital journey. The Online Safety Hub supports the school community by providing practical insights and advice directly from internationally-renowned Online Safety & Digital Wellness Experts.” – ySafe Website.
The website can be accessed HERE and I urge all member of our community to explore this amazing resource, particularly:
- The guides and practical suggestions for any parent wanting to help their child be safe online: Click here for ySafe parents' guide
- The review of online applications/programs, which clearly explains many popular programs that young people use and their risks, alongside helpful information about who and why they are used: Click here for ySafe app-reviews
Knowing that families and schools can’t assist young people with online safety unless we know about what and how they are engaging online, here is one example of the ‘known risks’ for an applications/programs available on the ySafe website – this example is for TikTok.
As we work hard to support our young people, let’s also use the valuable resources available to us. I urge you to visit the ySafe Website and discuss it with your family/child. Above all, let’s keep working together for the safety of our young people, including online safety.
Please engage our staff wherever we may assist your young person (or your family) with resources or conversation that may help us navigate the online challenges we share. Above all, please speak openly and honestly with your young person(s) and share their online presence.
Josh Foulis
Acting Principal