From the Vice Principal – Term 2 Week 10

Upcoming Changes to Social Media Access for Under 16s

As part of new legislation under the Online Safety Act 2021, age-restricted social media platforms will be legally required to prevent children under 16 from holding accounts by December 2025. This national move aims to create safer digital spaces and protect young people from online harms such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content and social pressure. Further information can be found at eSafety -Social Media Age Restrictions.

This legislation acknowledges the growing body of research linking early social media use with impacts on sleep, mental health, focus and self-esteem. It is not about taking something away – it is about giving young people space to grow up without unnecessary digital pressure.

We encourage parents to start open conversations with their children now. Some steps to consider:

  • Review the apps your child uses and their age restrictions
  • Gradually reduce use of age-inappropriate platforms
  • Explore safe, age-appropriate alternatives
  • Model balanced digital habits at home

Primary Carpark Etiquette

Next term, we are excited to welcome our Pre-Kindy to Year 2 students to the Churchlands campus. Our staff have been working hard to ensure a smooth and positive transition for all families.

A key part of our preparation has been reviewing traffic and carpark procedures to ensure the safety and efficiency of drop-off and pick-up times. We kindly ask for your support by following the guidelines below:

General Expectations

  • Please follow the directions of staff on duty.
  • Be patient and courteous at all times and follow all carpark signage.

Pre-Kindy and Kindy Pick-Up

If you are collecting children in Pre-Kindy or Kindy only, please:

  • Be parked by 2.45pm
  • Collect your child directly from the classroom
  • Exit the carpark by 3pm, if possible, to make space for other families

Kiss N Ride Procedures

  • Please ensure your family name is clearly displayed on your dashboard.
  • Kiss N Ride will open at 3pm, after the dismissal bell.
  • Families collecting children from Pre-Primary to Year 6 via Kiss N Ride should not enter the carpark before 3pm.

Important Reminders

  • There is strictly no parking in the left-hand Kiss N Ride lane.
  • Once this lane is full, remain in the right lane and either:
    • Drive ahead and park, or
    • Loop around and re-enter the Kiss N Ride queue once space becomes available.

Thank you for your cooperation and ongoing support as we work together to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all students and families.

Pupil Free Days and Student Learning Conversations (Parent-Teacher Interviews)

A reminder to our families that Monday 21 July is a pupil-free day for all PK to Year 12 students. On Tuesday 22 July, there will be no classes to enable our Student Learning Conversations to take place.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for a fantastic term and wish you all a safe and restful holiday break with family and friends.

Uniform Shop – School Holiday Trading Hours

The College Uniform shop will be open on the following days prior to the commencement of Term 3:

  • Tuesday 15 July – 9:00am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 3.00pm
  • Wednesday 16 July – 9:00am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 3.00pm
  • Tuesday 22 July – 8.30am to 4.30pm

As usual orders can also be placed online for collection. The link to the online store is here.

Mr Michael Chiera

VICE PRINCIPAL