Partnering for Online Safety: Why Parental Involvement Matters
In today’s digital world, our children are growing up surrounded by technology. From online games to educational apps and social media, the internet offers many opportunities—but it also presents risks. As educators, we play a vital role in teaching safe online habits, but we can’t do it alone. Parental involvement is essential in helping children navigate the online world safely and confidently.
Research from the eSafety Commissioner shows that parents are the first line of defence when it comes to online safety. Children are more likely to develop healthy digital habits when their parents are actively involved in their online lives. This includes setting boundaries, having open conversations, and using tools like parental controls.
However, many parents report feeling unsure about how to manage their child’s online experiences. That’s why it’s important for schools and families to work together to build knowledge and confidence around eSafety.
Important Changes Coming: Social Media Age Restrictions
From 10 December 2025, new laws will prevent children under 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on major social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Reddit, Threads, Kick, and X (formerly Twitter).
This change is designed to protect young people from the pressures and risks associated with social media, such as exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and addictive design features that can impact sleep, concentration, and wellbeing.
It’s important to note that this is not a punishment or a ban on internet use—it’s a delay that gives families time to build digital resilience and prepare children for safer social media use when they are older.
For families with children who use social media and messaging apps, now is the time to start conversations about how they can stay connected with friends in safe and age-appropriate ways. While social media platforms will be restricted, children can still use:
- Messaging apps that are not classified as social media (e.g. those used for direct communication without public posting features)
- Online games with chat functions, provided they are monitored and age-appropriate
- School-approved platforms that support learning and collaboration
Encourage your child to think about why they want to connect and help them explore how they can do so safely. This is also a great opportunity to reinforce respectful communication and digital boundaries.
Here are some practical ways parents can support their child’s online safety:
Be engaged and supportive
Talk regularly with your child about their online activities.
Set clear rules
Establish guidelines for screen time and online behaviour.
Use parental controls
These tools can help limit access to inappropriate content and monitor usage.
Model good behaviour
Show your child how to use technology responsibly.
Parent Resources
The eSafety Commissioner offers a wealth of resources to help parents stay informed and proactive:
By fostering strong partnerships between home and school, we can empower our students to thrive online. I encourage all families to explore the eSafety resources and start the conversation at home. Together, we can create a safer digital environment for everyone in our College community.
God bless,
Mrs Jenny Squire
Deputy Principal – Head of Junior School
Sport
Welcome to Week 4! It’s been a busy and exciting time in Junior School Sport, with plenty of achievements, events, and opportunities for our students to shine.
IPSSO Results – Week 3
Our teams continued to show great sportsmanship and determination in last week’s IPSSO fixtures. Across Soccer, Basketball, Oztag and Cricket, students gave their all and represented our school with pride. A big thank you to our coaches and supporters who cheered from the sidelines!
Last week we saw great results against Macarthur Anglican!
Junior Basketball | 50-21 Loss | Senior Basketball | 19-64 Loss |
Junior Oztag | 4-1 Win | Senior Oztag | 16-4 Win |
Junior Girls Soccer | 1-0 Win | Senior Girls Soccer | 5- 0 Loss |
Junior Cricket | 84/46 Loss | Senior Cricket | 75-61 Loss |
Oztag Gala Day
Our students had a blast at the Oztag Gala Day, enjoying a day of fast-paced games, teamwork, and fun. It was wonderful to see so many smiles and great sportsmanship throughout the day. Our Senior Boys team won 3 of 3 games which saw them progress to the finals. Unfortunately losing in the finals to a fierce competitor in the Oaks Public School. Congratulations to our boys for fantastic day!
AFL Clinic Fun
Last week, students enjoyed an energetic and engaging AFL Clinic, run by development officers from the AFL. It was fantastic to see so many students trying new skills, learning the game, and having fun with their peers. Students have been developing their hand ball skills, kicking and communication skills. We look forward to the continued program.
Year 1 Swimming
Over the past three weeks, our Year 1 students have been taking part in the Learn to Swim program at Oran Park Leisure Centre. It’s been wonderful to see their confidence grow in the water as they’ve developed essential swimming skills and water safety awareness. From floating, stroke correction, blowing bubbles, students have had a great time.
Grace’s Tennis Triumph
We are incredibly proud of Grace S for her outstanding performance at last week’s tennis competition. Grace went undefeated through her pool of nine players, showcasing her skill and composure on the court. She continued her winning streak through the quarter and semi-finals, earning a well-deserved spot in the Final. In a thrilling Final Match Grace unfortunately went down in nail biting game. Congratulations to Grace on her hard work and great performance.
Lucas V at NSWPSSA Athletics
A huge congratulations to Lucas V., who competed at the NSWPSSA State Athletics Carnival as a proud representative of CIS. Lucas gave an incredible performance in the Long Jump, placing 3rd in the state! This fantastic result means Lucas has now qualified for the National Championships, which will be held from 27–30 November. We’re so proud of his achievement and wish him all the best as he prepares to take on the nation!
Term 4 Upcoming Sporting Events
Week 5
Monday 10th November – AFL Clinic
Wednesday 12th November – Summer IPSSO Last Round
- Training 7:45am
- Away Game against Mt Annan
- Cricket and Basketball @ Cunningham Park
- Girls Soccer and Oztag @ Jack Nash
- Juniors 12:00pm
- Seniors 1:00pm
Thursday 13th November – Year 1 Swimming
Week 6
Monday 17th November – NO AFL Clinic – Mid Term Break
Wednesday 19th November – Summer IPSSO
- NO TRAINING
- IPSSO Summer Finals will be held at St Gregs College.
- More information to come when teams have been finalised.
Thursday 20th November – Year 1 Swimming
Week 7
Monday 24th November – AFL Clinic
Friday 27th November – Year 1 Swimming – Conclusion of the Program
God bless,
Mrs Stephanie Wright
Sports Coordinator
