School Safe Social Survey
Our local politicians have recently alerted schools about the intention of the State Government to deliver a new social media education program to keep kids safe online, as we open consultation on new national laws around age limits.
Parents have told us they’re worried about their kids using social media, but they feel powerless to push back against the tech giants.
That’s why the Government will work with the Commonwealth to introduce age limits, so kids aren’t using social media before they’re ready.
An online survey which opened earlier this week gives parents, teachers, young people and the general public the opportunity to share their experiences and concerns about social media use.
Groups can also participate through self-guided discussions, using an online guide.
But age limits are only part of the equation.
Social media is a reality of modern life, and we need to make sure young people have the tools to navigate it safely.
Findings from this consultation process will shape a new social media safety program. Safe Socials will be delivered in schools as a resource for students, teachers and families about how to navigate social media.
The survey https://engage.vic.gov.au/safesocials is open until the 1st of November 2024.
Berry Street Podcast
While it is a little late for holiday reading/listening I recently stumbled across this great Podcast from Berry Street. For nearly 150 years, Berry Street has dedicated itself to keeping children, young people and families safe, thriving and hopeful.
Stories from Berry Street explores the current crisis facing children and families in Australia. More than ever they’re being exposed to violence, abuse and neglect, and the fall out of this can have devastating long-term impacts on our whole community.
Join our host Richelle Hunt - who you may know from The Conversation Hour on ABC Radio - as she
talks to staff from front line services at Berry Street, highlights the innovative work that’s being done to address the increasing rates of harm and violence, and uncovers what we can all do to help.
Stories from Berry Street has new episodes dropping fortnightly.
Episode 3: Trauma-Informed Education (47 mins) is one the most recent and relevant ones for our context.
Important Information About eScooters
As the spring weather brings more sunshine before and after school more and more students are choosing to arrive to school independently each day.
It has come to our attention that a number of students (Yr 7-9) have been travelling to school or bus stops using electric scooters. While we understand that these scooters are a convenient mode of transport, it is important to note that it is illegal for children under the legal age to ride electric scooters.
Our primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of our students. Electric scooters can present significant risks, particularly when used by younger students who may not yet have the necessary skills or experience to safely navigate busy roads and pathways. Additionally, riding an electric scooter at their age can result in legal consequences. I have taken the liberty to include below information from Victorian Police website.
