This week on ABC, there was an excellent episode of the series “Role of a Lifetime”. It dealt superbly with the issue of smartphones and our teenagers, especially as they start high school. Some of the scenarios resonated with me as the Pastoral team deal with the fallout of some of these issues.

I highly recommend watching this as it has some great information for parents as there are experts giving their opinions on how to help young people deal with the social media world.

Series 1 Episode 1 (on ABC IView)

Duration: 45 minutes 36 seconds45m

At the Maliks, 10-year-old Jack wants a smartphone, but Mum and Dad are stalling. In the real world, Kate meets cognitive neuroscientist Mark Williams, who believes smartphones are sapping kids' ability to pay attention. 

Also, it would be very valuable as we work in partnership with our parents and carers for you to continue to have discussions with your children about how we interact with other people – friends and those we do not know well – who are from diverse backgrounds or those whose ideas differ from ours. Our pillars of Positive Relationships and Respect are what helps build an inclusive community here at Carmel. Even if we don’t agree with others, there are respectful ways of interacting and getting our point across.

All the best to everyone as we enter assessment time. Encourage students to seek support early with organisation and easing any exam/assignment stress.

I hope the next two weeks go well.

Ms Jacqueline Weidman

Assistant Principal- Student Wellbeing