19 June 2025
There are moments in history when we realise – often too late – that the things we once accepted without question were in fact causing real harm. Smoking in schools. Children riding in cars without seatbelts. Prolonged sun exposure without protection. In each case, we look back and ask, “Why didn’t we act sooner?”.
Today, we find ourselves at a similar crossroads when it comes to the unregulated use of personal smart devices and social media in the lives of young people. The data is growing. The stories are becoming more frequent. And the concerns shared by parents, teachers and researchers are consistent: our children are navigating a digital world that is increasingly shaping their mental health, relationships and view of themselves.
At St Peter’s College, we do not want to look back in five, ten or twenty years and wish we had done more. That is why we are undertaking a review into technology and digital safety – and why your voice as a parent or guardian matters.
Please take a few moments to complete our short parent and guardian survey, which will help inform the next phase of our digital wellbeing strategy. The survey will take less than 10 minutes and remains open until 5.00pm on Friday 27 June 2025. All responses are confidential and de-identified.
Your honest reflections – including any concerns or insights you bring as a parent – are both welcome and valued.
As we seek your input, I encourage you to read more about our School’s commitment to the balanced and purposeful integration of technology into teaching and learning.
At the same time, we are reminded of the value of being truly present – away from screens altogether. Next Friday, we will welcome home our Year 10 students who have spent the past 21 days exploring the Ikara-Flinders Ranges on their final Outdoor Education journey – entirely free from digital devices.
In recent decades, much has been done to ‘sanitise’ education. Yet growth rarely comes from comfort. An education without a level of managed risk is not a true education. Outdoor education, physical challenge and opportunities for shared and personal responsibility are all vital. This time away from routines and digital distractions offers not just a physical and mental reset, but a reminder of what young people are capable of when given space to think, connect deeply with others and engage meaningfully with the natural world. I am sure our Year 10 students will have experienced significant personal growth on this journey, and we look forward to hearing all about their adventures upon their return.
Our School Captains, Aadi and Tiger, are currently in the Flinders Ranges visiting the students and have taken the opportunity to reflect on the significance of the School’s Outdoor Education program and the lasting impact it has had on their own development. Read about it here.
My sincere thanks to everyone who has already contributed to our Annual Giving Appeal. Your support will be instrumental in the renewal of the Junior School Playground and Burchnall Sports Centre. As the end of the financial year approaches, I encourage you to make a tax-deductible donation towards these projects. Every gift, no matter the size, will benefit all students and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Thank you to the Junior School Friends of Saints and all those who attended Saturday’s Quiz Night for your generous donation to our Appeal.
Congratulations to Year 9 student Kaien Liu, who has been selected in the 15U State Ice Hockey Team. We wish him the best of luck for the upcoming Championships to be held in Perth in July.
As we approach the mid-year break, I thank all families for your support of the School in what has been a busy Semester. I wish you and your family a restful break.
Tim Browning
Headmaster
