Start of Term 4

The first day of term 4, Monday 12th October is a pupil free day as the staff engages in Profession Learning. The first day for students is Tuesday 13th October.

Term 4 uniform

The start of term 4 is the return of the summer uniform. All students will return on Tuesday 15th of October dressed in their summer uniform.
Just a reminder that when students return to the College they must be dressed in the correct College uniform, have appropriate hair styles, be clean shaven, and wear appropriate jewelry. 

Earrings- one pair of simple gold or silver sleepers or studs with a small jewel if required are the only earnings to be worn and this should only be in the ear lobe. NO nose rings or other earrings are to be worn. Boys are not to have any earrings.

Hair- one natural colour only, with no jewels in the hair. Boys must have appropriate cut according to the rules in the planner. 

Kilt- The girls kilt must be knee length

Makeup- no students should be wearing any makeup to school. 

Shaving- boys should be clean-shaven at all times. If facial hair can be seen they will be asked to shave either at home or at school. 

Bags – all students should have the College bag. Students must have the backpack or the College shoulder bag. 

Shoes- it is a Work Health and Safety requirement that students have a hard leather covered lace up school shoe. Runners and slip on shoes are not permitted at school. Girl’s shoes with a buckle that are not completely enclosed are not permitted. 

Hats- the College has its own hats and these are the only hats permitted at the College. 

I ask the parents to assist the College in ensuring that your child is dressed in a way that represents the College well. 

Technology

Technology has changed many aspects of our lives. It has created a complex world that our children need to navigate. Young people feel the need to be constantly connected, constantly entertained and to have a complex online identity. With the need to be online to maintain this we are finding that our children are becoming detached form the real world. 

While there are some benefits of technology we must be mindful that this does not become an addiction. These include a preoccupation with gaming, secrecy around use, loss of interest in other activities, social withdrawal, defensiveness and anger when gaming time is restricted, and continued use despite negative consequences. 

The addiction to technology could include gaming, social media television etc.

Excessive gaming use is associated with mood disorders, poor impulsive control and substance use disorders, as well as problems at school or work, sleep deprivation, and family conflict.

Dealing with addiction to technology is not easy and the intervention of other agencies may be necessary. Changing habits can be very difficult and will cause conflict at the start. The intervention of help may provide support and direction in dealing with the addiction. The College is always available to offer assistance and suggest agencies to assist in the changing of habits. 

The College has an acceptable use of technology policy which is in the students planner. 

Year 11 and 12 may use their phone outside the classroom and with a teachers direction in the classroom. 

Year 7-10 are not permitted to use their technology, including speakers and earphones, between 8.45 and 3pm unless directed by a teacher. Breach of this rule will result in the device being signed into the office. A technology breach letter will be emailed to you. The second time a device is handed in a detention will be issued. The third time a device is handed in the device will be confiscated and the parent will have to make an appointment with the Leader of Learning Pastoral to get the device back.

If there are any issues with your child and technology, please contact the College or the Leader of Learning – Wellbeing.

Limiting your child's exposure to harmful content online 

eSafety has developed a series of tips for parents and carers to help limit young people’s exposure to harmful content online:

• Engage in your child’s online activities – ask what apps, sites and games they’re using and make sure they’re age-appropriate
• Use parental controls on devices to help limit what your child is exposed to
• Help them report and block upsetting content they see on social media sites or apps
• Let them know they can come to you about anything upsetting they see online

For more advice on apps, social media and online safety issues, head to eSafety below.

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

Enjoy the holidays.

God bless

Mr. Nick Thrum

Assistant Principal- Students