From the Deputy Headmaster/ Head of Junior School

As we reach the halfway point of our final term of the year, the weeks seem to be filled with more events than ever. Filled with recitals, guest speakers, excursions, concerts, incursions and a Friends of Saints Pancake Breakfast to mention just a few, our School calendar doesn’t have a morning, afternoon or evening spare as we near the end of the academic year!

In an era where screens dominate so much of our lives, as well as our children’s, I’ve been reflecting on how fortunate our students are to be compelled into a rich and varied calendar of events and experiences. From Palm House Sports Day to the Year 3 Strings Concert, the rhythm of the School year is intentionally designed to engage, inspire and connect our learners to the ‘real world’.

As highlighted in Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, the rise in screen time and decline in real-world social interaction have contributed to increased anxiety and disconnection among young people. By offering students meaningful experiences through activities that foster teamwork, curiosity, and joy—we’re not just filling their days at School; we’re giving them an opportunity to discover passions they mightn’t know they had.

Whether your son travelled to Melbourne for the Cricket tour, rode his bike in the Avenues, performed a solo at a Chamber Recital, or walked to the Museum, these are just a snapshot of the memories our students have created over the past fortnight… beyond screen time.

Following on from the Headmaster’s email communication regarding Digital Wellbeing, I encourage all parents and carers to attend the Junior School focussed sessions in the coming weeks.

Wait Mate Partnership: Campaign Launch and Information

Tuesday 18 November, 6.30pm, Big School Room

Click here to register your interest

Open to all parents and carers, this session will be particularly relevant for families of boys up to Year 9. It will include an overview of the Wait Mate campaign and practical strategies for managing mobile phones and social media at home. Parents will also have the opportunity to share experiences and strategies around boys’ online activities.

Family Partnerships Forum

Thursday 20 November, 8.45am, Junior School Function Space

Click here to register your interest

This session invites parents and carers to explore ways to strengthen partnerships between families and the School, focusing on shared approaches to supporting students’ digital wellbeing.

Jasmine Taylor
Deputy Headmaster – Head of Junior School