From the Assistant Principal Students
Start of Term 4
The first day of term 4, Monday 4th October is a pupil free day as the staff engages in Profession Learning. The first day for students is Tuesday 5th October.
Technology
Technology has changed many aspects of our lives. With lockdown we are using technology as the main tool for learning. Outside the classroom we are seeing an increased use of technology for other things in life.
Technology 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 from 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 others 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.
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.
What’s in the planner?
Walter Elliot was a Priest and Writer. He said
“perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another”
Perseverance is completing something even though it's difficult or there is a delay in seeing the results of what you are doing. Many aspects of our life can be a series of short races. Life, school, work etc can test our perseverance. Setting goals, both long and short term, can help you persevere when things get difficult and you find it hard to see the end of the task.
We need perseverance in this time of online learning, it's hard to see the end and it can be a struggle. Perseveres, there is light at the end of the tunnel. We will be back to a new normal soon enough
Key strengths to focus on are positive emotions and gratitude.
Enjoy the holidays.
God Bless
Mr. Nicholas Thrum
Assistant principal - Students