From Screens to Camps: Supporting Our Girls in a Connected World (Looking ahead in Term 3)

Navigating Technology Together

In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, technology is no longer just a tool, it is a central part of our students’ learning, social lives, and future careers. From Prep to Year 12, our girls are engaging with devices, platforms, and increasingly, artificial intelligence (AI), in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago; certainly very different from when I was at school!

While these advancements bring exciting opportunities for creativity, personalised learning, and global connection, they also come with new challenges. As a school, we are committed to helping students use technology responsibly, safely and ethically. But we know that parents play a vital role too.

You can support your daughter by:

• Having open conversations. Ask what apps she uses, how she interacts with AI, and what she finds exciting or concerning online.

• Encourage critical thinking. Discuss how she decides whether something online is true, and what she would do if she encountered something upsetting.

Two excellent resources to support families are:

• the eSafety Commissioner. This site offers practical tools for parents, including guides on screen time, online safety, and device settings. It also features age-specific advice and free webinars. https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

• Teens and Screens (Black Dog Institute). This new program has been designed to help families manage screen use together. It includes strategies for building healthy digital habits, improving sleep, and fostering positive relationships with technology. https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/teens-screens/parents/

As we embrace the benefits of technology and AI in education, we must also work together to ensure our students are safe, informed, and confident digital citizens.

Girls Grammar Pyjama Day

Many thanks to all students and staff who got comfortable for a cause this week and wore their pyjamas to school. Funds were raised to support The Shelter Collective’s Mobile Outreach Bus Initiative, which provides essential support to people in need across our region. We look forward to sharing news on funds raised at our next Assembly.

Looking Ahead in Term 3

We’re excited to remind our Year 9 and 10 students about the upcoming activities in Weeks 2 and 3, Year 9 Camp to Boyne Island Environmental Centre and Year 10 Retreat to Great Keppel Island. These experiences offer valuable opportunities to explore new places, build friendships, develop skills, and create lasting memories.

Students are also busy preparing for the much-anticipated Interhouse Choir Competition in Week 4. I’m really looking forward to seeing their performances!

Later in the term, Year 4, 5, 6, and 8 Camps will take place. These are always a highlight of the year, and further details will be shared with families closer to the dates.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.

Kathy King

Deputy Principal - Students (Acting)