Great learning happens for our students when they are connected, engaged and thriving in their wellbeing. While there are many wonderful learnings happening in the classroom at St Johns, there are also various programs provided for students that encourage positive behaviours for learning and respectful relationships. There will be a number of opportunities for students to participate in these pastoral programs throughout the year. Some of the programs that our students have had the opportunity to engage in thus far include:

DIGITAL THUMBPRINT 

Students will participate in digital thumbprint lessons where they will learn the advantages of a positive online presence while arming them with the facts they need to stay safe online. Topics covered in the digital thumbprint lessons include: 

• Cyberbullying: Importance of respectful relationships online
• Digital Discernment and Fake News: How social media has the power to influence society and how to identify facts and fiction in online media. 
• Digital Balance: How technology can help us achieve amazing things, the positive uses of technology on our wellbeing and how to create a balance between the use of social media, social interaction and study.  
• Cybersecurity: Students will learn how to stay safe online
• Digital Identity: Students will explore social media profiles and posts through the lens of potential employers and positively improve their own online presence. 

POLICE YOUTH ENGAGEMENT PRESENTATION

Students from Years 9 and 10 participated in workshops with members of our local police force during Week 8. The engaging and relevant topics discussed included online bullying and harassment, vaping and consent. The students were able to clarify their understanding of these topics in a respectful and mature manner. We appreciate these opportunities to work in partnership with important members of our local community.

YOUR CHOICEZ PROGRAM

Our Year 10 students participated in a respectful relationships program in Week 7 called ‘Your Choicez’. This externally delivered program focused on mutual respect, trust, good communication, understanding and honesty. The presenters unpacked what positive healthy relationships look like in comparison to unhealthy behaviours in relationships. Importantly, it provided an excellent opportunity for students to understand self-expression, self-awareness and awareness of  others in relationships. If there are any concerns with your son or daughter, please reach out to their PALS teacher as they are great for support for our young people.

Ms Sonia Diaz

Pastoral Care Coordinator