In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message
• Ms Dunn’s Digest
• Mrs Resta’s Reflections
• Parenting tip from Mr Thomas
• Public notices
• Dates for your diary

Principal’s message

As Term 3 unfolds, I continue to be inspired by the energy and dedication of our students and staff. It’s wonderful to see both campuses buzzing with learning, activities and meaningful connection across all year levels. 

A special congratulations to our Carramar Secondary students who participated in this week’s Athletics Carnival, your enthusiasm and House spirit were a joy to see! Best of luck to our Duncraig students as they prepare for their carnival next week. 

With Year 12s entering their final months at St Stephen’s School, we acknowledge both the anticipation and emotion that come with this season. It’s a special time to reflect on their journey and look ahead with hope and pride. 

We’re also preparing to welcome cyber safety expert Kirra Pendergast to our Duncraig campus in Week 7 for a parent presentation on navigating social media and keeping our young people safe online. I encourage all families to attend this important event. 

Please continue to check our online calendar and social media channels to stay connected with the many exciting activities happening throughout the term. 

Take care and God bless, 

Donella Beare, Principal

Ms Dunn’s Digest

I hope everyone has enjoyed a well-deserved break and are now re-energised for a busy term ahead.  

A warm welcome to our new families joining the St Stephen’s community. We look forward to meeting you in the near future. 

 An interesting piece I read to reflect on for the start of term and recent parent/teacher meetings. 

Boosting motivation to increase learning  

We all know people who are naturally motivated in life, who will have a go at anything and keep going until they reach their goals. I read an article that discussed what parents can do to help to increase motivation in children, and how to avoid decreasing it!   

Motivated students aren’t always the highest achievers in the class, they are the students who have a “can do attitude”, who are willing to give anything a go and will persevere with a task, even if it becomes difficult. And, of course, these attributes lead to progress and success.    

Dr Andrew Martin, a leading expert on child motivation refers to motivated kids as “boosters” who have “a natural belief in themselves and their capacity to achieve”. Furthermore, he defines “those who restrict their chances of success through fear of failure and avoidance as ‘mufflers’; and those who self-sabotage and believe they have little control over whether or not they succeed as ‘guzzlers’”. So, what can parents do to “push the boost button” and increase motivation?  

• Try to focus on success, rather than failure. Often parents and teachers focus on mistakes made and what a child cannot do, without acknowledging learning achieved or skills attained. Remember to recognise progress made, whilst continuing to make plans for future learning.   

• Teach your child new, resilient thinking habits. Build success into their lives, challenge negative thinking and catastrophising, recognise their strengths, and acknowledge improvement.  

• As parents and as teachers we must encourage, recognise, and acknowledge perseverance in students.  We should aim to praise effort and perseverance – rather than ability.  After all, ability is innate, but effort and perseverance can lead to improvement.  So, rather than saying “you are so clever”, you might praise the effort taken to learn a difficult concept.  
• Avoid always assessing your child’s progress in relation to others by only comparing them to the ‘standard’. It’s important to assess their individual improvement or effort, to increase their intrinsic motivation. This is more motivating than a desire not to let you (or the teacher) down through their placement in a cohort.  Ask your child how their achievement compares with their past achievement, what effort they put in, what they learnt. These questions tell you more than a class average and they build motivation.  

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

This Term started with a celebratory assembly to acknowledge the following students and their achievements in following areas. 

2025 WA Economics Competition. 

This competition drew in over 5,000 participants from across the state. Among those thousands, several of our students have stood out. They not only received Distinctions, placing them in the top tier of all participants, but even more impressively — all of these students advanced to the Grand Final round. Reaching the Grand Final is an outstanding achievement that reflects a strong understanding of economics. These students performed exceptionally well under pressure, standing among the very best young economists in Western Australia. 

Even more remarkably, four of these students achieved a perfect score, answering 100% of the questions correctly in the final round. Congratulations to Zachary Walker, Felix Boswell, Danika Marsh and Melissa Selby. 

 ADP Awards  

Our wonderful Athlete Development Program (ADP) in partnership with Athletic Institute presented some recent specialist awards. Congratulations Carly Moore (Gymnastics), Ella Harbison (Athletics), Noa Langhi and Mateo Langhi (Martial Arts), Tyson Jones (Swimming), Blake Sexton (Baseball), Charlotte Caldwell (Horseriding), Owen Challen (Boxing) and Willow Potter (Triathlon). Which leads us to our….

 ACC Awards  

Our cohort of ACC ALL STARS has grown with Jack Whyte, Jesse Whyte, Joe Bridgeman, Martin van Staden and Lucia Petropulous all becoming ACC Swimming All Stars. Congratulations also to Isabella Heathcote for becoming an ACC Cross Country All Star. 

STEM Awards 

Congratulations to Elissa Groves and Joshwa Ruiz who were the TOP ATAR students for Science and presented with STEM Awards by Dr Masoumeh Zargar from the School of Engineering at ECU.

Mrs Dunn welcomed the following new staff to Duncraig Secondary. 

• Mr Kenneth Taylor – Maths 
• Mr Harry Tanner – HPE 
•  Ms Antonella Raschilla – Science 
• Ms Anne Butler – English/Drama 
• Ms Gabrielle Watts – English/Drama 
• Mr Jorgen Torgersen – HASS 

We have had many success stories of our student’s achievements over the holidays in their own personal passions. Please check our socials for their stories. 

In addition we welcomed back Year 9 students form the Bali Tour and HASS Tour. 

This Term we will be saying Bon Voyage to the French Tour who depart in the last week of term. We look forward to hearing about your adventures. 

Additionally, look out for our Arts Assembly and our Sports Award Assembly where we will be celebrating our top performing ARTS and Sports students. 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting tip

with Mr Craig Thomas, Carramar, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

The Power of Unplugging: Why Families Need Screen-Free Time 

Recently, a video popped up on my social media reflecting on the 10th anniversary of a spoken word video by Gary Turk titled “Look Up”.  At the time, the video invited us to pause, reflect and reconsider the way that we engage with technology and highlighted that although there are endless connections with social media, it is leaving individuals feeling more isolated.  It’s message was clear – disconnect to reconnect. After 10 years, Gary recently released a follow-up with a tragic twist.  Technology has continued to evolve over that time but the core issue still remains: we spend more time online and less time truly living. 

Let’s face it, screens are like that clingy friend who never wants to leave your side. They’re fun, helpful, and always around… but sometimes, they just need a little space. In a world where notifications buzz more than bees and scrolling can feel endless, taking a break from digital devices isn’t just refreshing, it’s essential. 

Disconnecting from devices has been shown to improve mental health, strengthen relationships, encourage creativity and improve quality of sleep. 

So how can we follow Gary’s advice and “Look Up?” Whether it’s swapping TikTok for a walk, or trading gaming time for a good old-fashioned board game, unplugging gives our minds a chance to breathe, our eyes a rest, and our relationships a boost. 

What does unplugging look like? 

• Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate areas like the dinner table or bedrooms as screen-free spaces. 

• Set a Digital Curfew: Agree on a time each evening when all devices are turned off. 

• Lead by Example: Children model what they see. When parents unplug, kids are more likely to follow. 

• Plan Screen-Free Activities: Try a family picnic, a nature walk, or a weekend without devices.  

This week, I encourage families to take on the challenge of unplugging by trying one of the suggestions. We all might be surprised by what we discover when we simply “look up”. 

Look up  

Look up 2 – Ten Years later 

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Please note the following key dates for Term 3 in the 2025 academic year:

• Monday 11 August – Alethea Week 
• Tuesday 12 August – Interhouse Athletics 
• Wednesday 13 August – Science Showcase (Carramar Campus) 
• Monday 25 August – Year 12 Cohort Photos 
• Wednesday 27 August – Interhouse Music Festival 
• Friday 29 August – Year 11 River Cruise 
• Saturday 30 August – St Stephen’s School Foundation Event 
• Tuesday 2 September – 12 ATAR Music and Drama Evening 
• Tuesday 2 September – Arts Assembly 
• Monday 8 September – OLNA Round 2 Begins 
• Friday 12 September – Year 8 Lou Morrison Kimberly Tour begins 
• Friday 19 September – Year 10 and Year 11 French Tour begins 
• Wednesday 24 September – From 1pm Year 12 Grads Festival 
• Thursday 25 September – Year 12 Grads Day to 1pm 
• Friday 26 September – Year 12 Graduation Evening 
• Friday 26 September – Term 3 Ends 
• Saturday 27 September – ATAR Practical Exam, Drama, Music, Phys Ed Studies begins 

In this newsletter:

• Acting Principal’s message
• Ms Dunn’s Digest
• Mrs Resta’s update
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist
• Dates for your diary

Acting Principal’s message

As we embrace the season of Makuru, a time of growth and reflection in the Noongar calendar, I want to thank you for your continued support and engagement across the whole school. It is a privilege to serve as Acting Principal and to witness the care and commitment that define our school community. 

I’d like to highlight an important initiative from the Department of Education: the WA Student Assistance Payment (WASAP). This program provides financial support to all families with students enrolled in WA schools, including ours. Every student is eligible, and I encourage all families to consider making a claim, regardless of financial need. 

The payment offers: 

$150 for each student in Kindergarten and Primary School 

$250 for each Secondary School student 

Currently, only 50% of our families have claimed this support. With the deadline approaching on Friday 4 July, we are encouraging all remaining families to submit their claims and take advantage of this opportunity. 

 Resources and instructions are available at: https://www.education.wa.edu.au/wasap/schools 

 Thank you for your continued partnership in nurturing a thriving and inclusive learning environment. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to enrol@ststephens.wa.edu.au 

 Bennet Andrews, Carramar Head of Campus and Acting Principal 

Ms Dunn’s Digest

As the term is nearing a close, semester 1 reports are being discussed at home and goals for the remainder of the year are set, here is some food for thought from Summer Allen, Ph. D Researcher with the Greater Good Science Center. 

 The Study suggests that prospecting about your future can enrich your life in at least four ways:

 Helps us make more prudent decisions 

 Prospection helps us decide how to act. Several studies have examined how thinking about the future shapes our decision making. Of particular interest is the psychology that drives our process of deciding between receiving something now, versus receiving something of greater value later. Visualising a specific probable future counteracts the effects of smaller intermediate rewards. Think about when you fantasise about your next vacation or decide whether it would be better to take the stairs or the elevator. Our prospection can cast far into the future. A phenomenon known as “delay discounting”. 

Motivates us to achieve our goals if we do it right 

 Prospection has another important application. It motivates us to achieve our goals. Having positive expectations – optimism – could increase our ability to achieve our goals, but just fantasising about the future can actually decrease the chance of achieving what we want. How do we turn these fantasies into behaviours? Optimism is the key, it is being able to draw a contrast between our fantasies and our current reality, which allows us to see barriers that must be overcome. One study asked students to mentally contrast their positive fantasies about benefiting from a vocational training program with aspects of the program that could impede their progress. This reflection caused students who expected to do well, commit themselves more to the program, and those who expected to do poorly, committing less – again highlighting the importance of optimistic expectations to success. The study suggests effectiveness of mental contrasting is due to ‘energisation,’ meaning when people have high expectations for succeeding at something, considering what might impede their goals gives them energy to try to overcome those barriers. In other words, it helps to stress yourself out a little bit. Mental contrasting, in conjunction with ‘implementation intentions,’ planning to move past barriers, helps reach goals. The WOOP acronym: Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan or WOOP type intervention improves academic performance. 

 Improves psychological wellbeing 

 There is evidence that prospection may improve psychological health more generally. Psychologists Martin Seligman and Anne Marie Roepke, note people with depression imagine possible futures that are more negative than people without depression. They tend to overestimate risk and have more pessimistic beliefs about the future. Therefore, targeting negative beliefs about the future can be helpful. ‘Future Directed Therapy’ induces participants to spend less time dwelling on the past or current struggles. Instead, they are asked to spend more time thinking about what they want from the future, while developing skills to reach future goals. 

There’s another technique that may help improve psychological health – ‘Anticipatory Savouring.’ Taking time to simulate and enjoy a positive experience in advance, thinking about the upcoming vacation, or meal with friends, can allow you to derive benefits from the experience twice. Studies show savouring an upcoming experience heightens people’s enjoyment both during and remembering the experience later. One way to engage in anticipatory savouring, suggested by Roepke and Seligman, is to modify ‘three good things’ gratitude exercises. Instead of writing three good things that happened today, you can write three good things you anticipate happening tomorrow and what you can do to make it more likely that it will happen. 

Makes us kinder and more generous 

How we think about the future doesn’t just influence our own lives. It can also influence how we treat other people. Picturing yourself helping someone in the future may make you more likely to do so. People who were asked to imagine the helping scenario more vividly, by picturing the event in a familiar location, were even more willing to help.  

 Another study found that when people think more broadly about the future consequences that come from helping others, they might feel inspired to behave in more prosocial ways. 

 While there is a lot left for researchers to discover about prospections, you don’t need to wait. You can try your own experiments. See if prospection helps you to live a more generous, happier, and more meaningful life.  

 Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus 

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

Term two is typically a busy term as we wrap up the final exams and tests for Semester 1 reports. 

Thanks to all parents and families who made an appointment to see their child’s teachers in the Year 11 and 10 Parent teacher interviews. Building relationships with your child’s teacher is fundamental to wellbeing and welfare of all students. As the famous quote says: 

 ” It takes a village to raise a child” 

This term has seen many awesome cross curricular, enriching opportunities for our students. 

There has been in house Rookie WADL debating, an excellent chance for students to polish the craft of public speaking. The HASS department have run field trips to Subiaco and Fremantle as students study how cities are formed and the infrastructure around planning these. 

The PE department has been busy with Cross Country and Inter House surfing events that have enthused students even with the recent wild weather. 

Science students showed a range of projects to parents and peers in the Year 8 and 9 Science evenings. 

The Arts have welcomed visiting Artist Andy Quilty, who held a workshop for year 10 students last week. Music ran their annual music camp in preparation for a fabulous middle school concert next week. 

Our Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to make lifelong memories on their annual retreats. Year 11 at Fairbridge Farm, where the highlight of the camp was the African drumming. Year 12 had an emotional time reliving their high school journey.  

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

Cyber Safety Tips – VPNs: What are they and why are they not allowed in schools? 

 You may have seen advertisements promoting the use of VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) on television, radio, or online. While VPNs have legitimate personal uses, they are not permitted on student devices at St Stephen’s School. This guidance aims to help parents understand why. 

What is a VPN? 

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted connection between a device and another network over the internet. VPNs are commonly used to: 

• Hide IP addresses and browsing activity 

• Access content that may be blocked in a specific region 

• Add privacy when using public Wi-Fi 

These features can be helpful in some personal contexts, but within a school environment, VPNs can pose significant risks—particularly to device security and student safety. 

Why VPNs Are Not Allowed at School?

Although VPNs offer some privacy protections, they are unsuitable for student use in a school setting. The main concerns are: 

Security Risks and Unsafe Software 

Many free or poorly-developed VPN services are not secure. They may collect personal information, track online activity, or expose devices to malware. When a student installs one of these VPNs, it puts their personal data—and sometimes even the school’s systems—at risk. This goes against our duty to provide a safe and secure digital learning environment. 

Disruption to Learning Tools 

VPNs can interfere with access to school learning platforms, testing systems, and security tools that rely on trusted network settings. This can hinder students’ ability to participate in online assessments, lessons, or access educational content. 

Prevention of Safe Monitoring 

Schools use monitoring tools to help ensure student safety online. VPNs can block these tools from working correctly, making it harder to detect concerning behaviour or provide early support. 

Inappropriate Content Access 

VPNs can allow students to bypass the school’s internet filters, accessing sites that are blocked for good reason, including those that may be inappropriate, distracting, or harmful. 

Supporting Your Child’s Online Safety 

At St Stephen’s School, student wellbeing—both in the physical and digital world—is a top priority. The decision to block VPNs is one of several safeguards designed to protect students and maintain a safe learning environment. 

We encourage you to talk regularly with your child about their use of technology and help them understand how to stay safe and responsible online. If you have any questions or would like help reviewing your child’s device, please don’t hesitate to contact our ICT team. 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Secondary Highlights

Andy Quilty Workshop

Inter House Surfing

Year 9 Science Presentation

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates  and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Please note the following key dates for Term 2 /3  in the 2025 academic year:

• Saturday 28 June to Tuesday 8 July – Bali Tour  

• Sunday 29 June to Sunday 6 July – HASS Tour  

• Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July – Year 10 Lift Week  

• Friday 4 July – Term 2 Ends  

• Monday 28 July – Year 7 to 9 Reporting Day 

• Tuesday 29 July – Students Return 

• Thursday 7 August – Year 7 Immunisations 

• Monday 11 August – Alethea Week 

• Tuesday 12 August – Interhouse Athletics 

• Wednesday 13 August – Science Showcase (Carramar Campus) 

• Monday 25 August – Year 12 Cohort Photos 

• Wednesday 27 August – Interhouse Music Festival 

• Friday 29 August – Year 11 River Cruise 

• Saturday 30 August – St Stephen’s School Foundation Event 

• Tuesday 2 September – 12 ATAR Music and Drama Evening 

• Tuesday 2 September – Arts Assembly 

• Monday 8 September – OLNA Round 2 Begins 

• Friday 12 September – Year 8 Lou Morrison Kimberly Tour begins 

• Friday 19 September – Year 10 and Year 11 French Tour begins 

• Wednesday 24 September – From 1pm Year 12 Grads Festival 

• Thursday 25 September – Year 12 Grads Day til 1pm 

• Friday 26 September – Year 12 Graduation Evening 

• Friday 26 September – Term 3 Ends 

• Saturday 27 September – ATAR Practical Exam, Drama, Music, Phys Ed Studies begins 

In this newsletter:

• Acting Principal’s message
• Ms Dunn’s Digest
• Mrs Resta’s update
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist
• Dates for your diary

Acting Principal’s message

It is a joy to see our Houses and ovals filled with energy once again as we warmly welcome everyone back for the start of Term 2 at St Stephen’s School.

The cooler weather has gently signalled the change in seasons, and it has been lovely to see our students embracing the winter uniform. A special highlight has been our Year 12 students proudly wearing their Rite of Passage jackets — a meaningful tradition that marks an important milestone in their final year.

I hope the holiday break provided you all with some time for rest and renewal, and that you are feeling refreshed for the busy and exciting term ahead. We have made a positive and productive start, with our senior students already focused on preparing for their upcoming semester exams, and all students engaging wholeheartedly in their learning, projects, and assessments.

For the first half of this term, I also have the privilege of serving as Acting Principal on behalf of Mrs Beare while she enjoys a well-deserved sabbatical. I am very much looking forward to supporting our wonderful students, staff, and families during this time and continuing to build on the strong sense of community that makes St Stephen’s School so special.

There is much to look forward to this term, with a range of events and opportunities for us to come together. We are excited for all that lies ahead and wish everyone a happy, rewarding, and successful Term 2.

Take care and God Bless, 

Rosemarie Dunn, Acting Principal and Duncraig Head of Campus

Ms Dunn’s Digest

The highlight of seeing the return of students, walking and talking as they move to class, sharing stories during lunch breaks around the campus led me to reflect on the Easter break and how rewarding it was to have time to have meaningful conversations with my own daughters.

This looks different for each of them.  I have learnt to factor one on one time at a café for one daughter whereas side by side activities during cooking or a walk works best for the other.  This time is invaluable to truly focus on the individual, show interest and gratitude for the little things they do and to listen to the unknowns, with a clear intent to acknowledge, not judge and not to move into fix mode. For my daughters they appreciate that I am present and that I slow down and just be!  They reminded me that’s all they really need.

Resilient Youth Australia report that over 90,000 teenagers been Years 7 to 10 say they cannot identify an adult in their lives who listen to them. It is hard to substantiate if this is reality or teenage perception and it is not that we don’t listen as much as getting the conversation started.

In building positive relationships and communication, a key component to success is highlighting and amplifying the positives in our daily interactions rather than negatives or catastrophising. A shared interest is a great starting point and helps retain connection and positivity during those challenging times where life doesn’t always unfold the way we wish it to be. It makes a big difference when we listen just to understand.

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus and Acting Principal

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

As students returned to school ready to start a brand-new term. I set them a challenge. To be reflective. To look back on Term 1 and really try and pinpoint what went well and chalk it up as something to keep doing this term. Similarly, they were challenged to think about the things that they can do better and to keep these at the forefront of their learning.

Making mistakes is an integral part of learning. It is not the mistakes that hold us back it is our inability to reflect on them and to change our approach to a question, essay assignment that is the problem. Making mistakes can help powerful learning conversations with students and teachers. I encourage every parent to reiterate this message at home. To support their children when they make mistakes by encouraging them to reflect and remember the next time that they need to do something different. Reach out to a teacher for the small changes that make a mistake a right answer.

I’d like to encourage these positive conversations and reframe, this way we build resilient, reflective learners and help our students grow.

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

“… age shall not weary them, at the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

Whilst attending a recent ANZAC Day Remembrance service, I was reminded of the wonderful gift of service and sacrifice paid by so many. Thousands of Australian men and women paid the ultimate price so that we may live in freedom.

Living in a safe and prosperous country like Australia means that we can, at times, become complacent regarding the importance of providing service to others and we sometimes don’t recognise that we as individuals can make a positive impact in the lives of others in many and varied ways. Research shows that helping others is linked to increased feelings of well-being, reduces isolation, and strengthens social connections. Acts of kindness can also have a positive ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit and strengthening community bonds. Volunteering has been linked to improved physical and mental health, including lower rates of depression and anxiety.

There are many groups in society who volunteer their time and talents to benefit the wider community. Groups like the RSL, Lifesaving Clubs, The Salvation Army, Australian Red Cross are just a few of the agencies where people can offer help. The St Stephen’s School motto is Serve God. Serve One Another.

Finding a place where your skills and passions can be shared with others is something well worthwhile. If your child is thinking about volunteering and doesn’t know where to start, ask them what they like doing, maybe it is working with the environment, with animals, social justice or sports and leisure. Whatever the activity, serving others makes our world a better place!

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Secondary Highlights

Easter Assemblies 2025

Year 12 Leavers Jackets

Cross Country 2025

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates  and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Please note the following key dates for Term 2 in the 2025 academic year:

• Wednesday 14 May – Careers Expo
• Monday 19 May to Friday 30 May – Semester 1 Exams (Year 11 and 12)
• Wednesday 4 June to Friday 6 June – Senior Music Camp
• Thursday 5 June – ACC Cross Country
• Friday 13 June – House Surfing
• Wednesday 18 June – Hot Topics
• Wednesday 18 June to Friday 20 June – Year 11 and 12 Retreats
• Friday 20 June – Rookie Debating Grand Final
• Saturday 28 June to Tuesday 8 July – Bali Tour
• Sunday 29 June to Sunday 6 July – HASS Tour
• Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July – Year 12 Lift Week
• Friday 4 July – Term 2 Ends

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message
• Ms Dunn’s Digest
• Mrs Resta’s update
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist
• Dates for your diary

Principal’s message

As we reach the end of a rich and rewarding first term, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the commitment and endeavour displayed by staff and students at St Stephen’s School. We are a community and work together to provide opportunities for all. It has been wonderful to watch our students, both new and old, take on the year with enthusiasm and determination.

This week, we came together for our Night of Giving Thanks – a truly special occasion where we reflected with gratitude on the people and moments that shape our community. This year’s event had particular significance as we bade a special farewell to our outgoing Chair of Council, Mr Kevin Smout, and welcomed the incoming Chair, Mr John Sobolewski.

As we approach Easter, a time of deep significance, I hope you find the opportunity to pause, reflect, and devote time to loved ones. May this season bring you rest, renewal, and peace.

Take care and God Bless, 

Donella Beare, Principal

Ms Dunn’s Digest

As the holidays draw near, I always look for interesting reads or podcasts.  Mel Robbins never fails to deliver practical, sage strategies in making life easier whilst offering a balanced approach to achieving success. My latest Mel podcast didn’t disappoint and one that can be applied to yourself or your family.  Here is the link if you are interested in listening.

Let Them Theory

I would also like to wish all our community a safe holiday and let the beauty of Easter fill your heart with faith, hope and love.  May your Easter be a time for you to rejoice and be thankful for the gift of life and surrounded by love.

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

We have a few changes to our Graduation 2026 (this will affect our current Year 11 students.) A communication has already been sent to parents of the cohort, but we have amended for a recent update:

• Term 3 2026 will be dedicated to Teaching and Learning – no graduation events will take place during this term.
• Exams and work experience will continue to be held in the second week of the October term break.
• Graduation celebrations will be held in Week 1 of Term 4, 2026.

Week 1 (13-16 October 2026)

• Examination Students: Final preparation for the final WACE exams with Revision Seminars Monday – Thursday a.m. Students will receive feedback on mock exams and guidance for upcoming WACE exams.
• General & VET Students: Dedicated time to complete any outstanding work in scheduled catch-up sessions.

Thursday 15th October 2026

• Graduation Fun Events 12.00pm – 3.20pm

Friday 16th October 2026

• Graduation Day (Worship, Assembly, House Farewells)
• Graduation Dinner

Put a note in your 2026 diaries this will certainly be a great day!

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

The Hidden Risks of AI: What Parents Need to Know

With an ever changing world of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly shaping the way children learn, play, and interact with technology. While AI offers many conveniences, it also presents risks that parents should be aware of.

Misinformation & Deepfakes

AI-generated content can be misleading or entirely false. From chatbots providing incorrect answers to deepfake videos that appear real but aren’t, children may struggle to distinguish fact from fiction. Teaching our kids to verify sources and think critically is crucial.

Privacy Concerns & Inappropriate or Harmful Content

Many AI-powered apps and websites collect data on users, including children. This information can be misused or sold, leading to privacy breaches. Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s online activity and review privacy settings on AI-based platforms.

AI-generated media isn’t always child-friendly. Some AI chatbots and image-generation tools have been known to produce inappropriate, violent, or disturbing content, even when safeguards are in place. Additionally, AI-curated social media feeds can expose kids to mature themes. Parents should use parental controls and talk to their children about reporting unsafe content.

Addiction & Overreliance

AI platforms are designed to keep users engaged, which can lead to excessive screen time. Moreover, AI tools that assist with writing or problem-solving may cause young people to rely on technology instead of developing their own skills.

What can I do to help your children?

1. Encourage critical thinking – Teach your child to question what they see online.
2. Set digital boundaries – Limit screen time and monitor AI interactions.
3. Use parental controls & remind students to think before you do! – Restrict access to age-appropriate content and the importance of responsible technology use.
4. Stay informed – Keep up with AI trends and general safe online practices to better guide your child’s online experience. Sites such as: https://www.esafety.gov.au/ and https://www.safeonsocial.com/

Wishing you and your children a safe and joyous holiday break.

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates  and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Please note the following key dates for Term 2 in the 2025 academic year:

• Wednesday 30 April – ANZAC Day Assembly
• Tuesday 6 May – House Cross Country
• Wednesday 7 May – Senior Music Concert
• Wednesday 14 May – Careers Expo
• Monday 19 May to Friday 30 May – Semester 1 Exams (Year 11 and 12)
• Wednesday 4 June to Friday 6 June – Senior Music Camp
• Thursday 5 June – ACC Cross Country
• Friday 13 June – House Surfing
• Wednesday 18 June – Hot Topics
• Wednesday 18 June to Friday 20 June – Year 11 and 12 Retreats
• Friday 20 June – Rookie Debating Grand Final
• Saturday 28 June to Tuesday 8 July – Bali Tour
• Sunday 29 June to Sunday 6 July – HASS Tour
• Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July – Year 12 Lift Week
• Friday 4 July – Term 2 Ends

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• Social media shake up – important information for all parents,
• Ms Dunn’s Digest,
• Mrs Resta’s Reflections,
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist,
• A note from our school nurses,
• Public notices,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

I am delighted to see our Houses and ovals brought back to life by the presence of our students for what I am sure will be another wonderful St Stephen’s School year! 

I trust that you have all had a restful and restorative holiday break and are ready for a jam-packed term. It’s certainly been a busy start for us all and there are a lot of events to bring us together. Please keep an eye on our school calendar linked below so you have every opportunity to participate. 

One of the key issues parents speak to our pastoral care team about is social media and with the imminent changes to the age limit for social media access (see full details below) it is vital that we all stay up-to-date on what this means for our young people and inform ourselves about the broader issues relating to young people and online engagement. To that end, I am really pleased that we have been able to secure Kirra Pendergast to present on “Staying safe on Social” on Thursday 6 March at 7pm in the Duncraig Theatre. Kirra is an international online expert, with experience in advising young people, families and governments so I am extremely interested to hear what she has to say. Please book now as places are limited.  

I look forward to seeing you there and wish you well for an enjoyable term. 

Take care and God Bless, 

Donella Beare, Principal

Social Media Shake-up

On November 28, 2024 the Australian Federal Government passed the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill. The new legislation will make it illegal for anyone under the age of 16 to use certain social media platforms starting in 2026.  

This includes Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and X.  

The legislation aims to protect young Australians from online harms and ensure their safety and well-being. Social media platforms will be required to take reasonable steps to enforce this age restriction. In good time, the Government has indicated they will provide guidance for parents, carers, and children to help them navigate this change. 

This means that if your child will be 15 or younger in 2026, it is advisable to start preparing now by removing their access to social media. Additionally, if you have not yet given permission for your child in this age range to use social media, we strongly advise against doing so. 

This legislation aims to protect young people in Australia at a critical stage of their development. As a School we support this new Bill, which has largely bipartisan support from both major parties. 

The Bill will place the responsibility on social media platforms, not parents or young people, to take reasonable steps to ensure fundamental protections are in place. This is about protecting young people – not punishing or isolating them – and letting parents know who is in their corner when it comes to supporting their children’s health and wellbeing. The evidence on the potential and real harm caused by poor social media conduct and online victimisation is extensive. 

From the introduction of this Bill onwards, our school will face significant limitations in addressing pastoral concerns that originate on social media. If a student has a social media account which contravenes the new legislation, our capacity to intervene in issues such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, or other social media-related concerns will be more restricted. 

We understand that for some, this may be a significant adjustment, but it is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. By taking proactive steps now, you can help your child transition smoothly and comply with the upcoming regulations. 

We will continue to provide updates and government materials throughout 2025 to help you and your family navigate this legislative transition.  

Ms Dunn’s Digest

Welcome back to all returning families, and a very special welcome to students and families joining our community for the first time. I am always extremely grateful to our St Stephen’s School community for the positive support we receive and share with students, parents and the broader community. This was showcased at our annual Year 12 Ball held on 23 January and we look forward to all the great things 2025 will bring through the year.   

Over the next few weeks there will be several events to provide an opportunity to meet current families and staff. Please check the school calendar for these events through the year.    

A gentle reminder that students are to wear their summer uniform throughout Term 1. The Uniform Shop is open on Tuesdays 8am-4pm and Thursdays 1pm-4pm.  Details of uniform requirements can be found in the Parent Handbook on the Parent Portal.  

Like most schools, we have roads and drop-off/pick-up areas that become extremely busy. Before and after school in particular, are bad times for traffic congestion. The safety of students, staff, parents and visitors is our priority. Please make use of the drop-off zones to minimise congestion in these areas. We also ask drivers to please keep traffic flowing and avoid stopping for prolonged periods.    

Year 12 Commissioning ceremony – Friday 31 January

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

We are starting 2025 with the roll out of our wellbeing program which has been rebranded IGNITE. This program acknowledges that academic success and student wellbeing are intertwined. Our IGNITE whole school approach is research-based and aimed a nurturing the holistic development of our students. 

The program is based on six pillars. 

I – Individual Student Voice The program provides opportunities for student advocacy and seeks to empower students to take ownership of their education. 

G – Growth through Leadership Through leadership experience provided in the program students learn to collaborate and make a positive impact on their community. 

N- Nurturing inclusivity and diversity Our inclusive environment values individual difference and promotes a culture of empathy and acceptance. 

I-Integrated community partnerships While partnering with organisations we enrich student experiences by providing real world opportunities. 

T- Thriving through active engagement We encourage our students to put their faith into action by actively engaging in service and outreach. 

E- Empowerment for a sustainable future We empower students to take ownership of their future world. Equipping them to make a positive impact on our global environment. 

Make sure to look at your child’s timetable and ask them about IGNITE! 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

As the new academic year begins, a fresh start with new goals is often front of mind for both students and staff alike. When setting goals for 2025 it is important that students apply the ‘SMART’ goal principle. 

What exactly is the goal? Be specific. Perhaps it is achieving a “B grade” for maths at the end of 2025 or maybe it is to become involved in more co-curricular school activities.  

Is this goal measurable? Knowing what percentage equates to a B grade is helpful and being aware of when the many co-curricular opportunities run is essential. Last year your child may have achieved 65% and knowing that 68% was the cutoff for a B is perhaps the motivation for that 3% increase.

Improving that small amount may be possible by ensuring that the student is diligent in double checking their work and submitting all tasks on time. The jump in the grade may be achievable by the end of Semester 1 but it may take until the end of the year. Further involvement with co-curricular events may require some rearranging of other tasks so you can do more. 

Whatever the goal, be it academic or personal, as parents you can support your child by regularly checking in with them regarding the hopes and dreams for 2025.  

I encourage parents to take the time to find out what goals your child has for 2025 and in doing so, working together, we can help our students to achieve both their short-term and long-term aspirations. 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

A note from our School Nurses 

We have noticed a number of students arriving at school in the morning requesting medication. To ensure the smooth operation of our Health Centre, we kindly request that medications such as paracetamol, antihistamines, and ibuprofen be administered at home before school or be provided by parents for minor ailments. Please note that these medications will only be dispensed as determined by the School Nurse, and not from the Health Centre before recess. 

Public notices

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates  and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Welcome Year 7 Parents 

A warm welcome to all the new families who have joined St Stephen’s School in 2025.  

To help you connect with other families you’re invited to join the ‘Class of 2030 SSS’ Facebook group. You will be asked to answer some security questions but once you’re part of the group it will serve as a useful way to communicate with one another, ask questions and organise social get togethers like parent nights or family days.  

Please note this group is not run by the school but by volunteer parents however the School’s parent code of conduct applies to all users of the Facebook group. To remind yourself of the code please visit the Parent Portal: Plan the day>Policies, forms and handbooks>Parent Policy, Form and Handbook Centre>Parents and Wider School Community Code of Conduct Policy. 

To join the group simply follow this link – https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1MMpbcyPHK/ or scan the QR code. 

The parent volunteers are also organising a parent sundowner. All Class of 2030 parents are welcome. Details below.

Please note the following key dates for Term 1 in the 2025 academic year:

• Wednesday 12 February – Secondary School photo catch up day 

• Thursday 13 February – ATAR, General and VET Information evening 6.30 – 7.30pm 

• Wednesday 19 February – Year 7 Camp, Year 8 Camp 

• Friday 21 February – ACC Swim Camp 

• Tuesday 25 February – The Arts Tour information evening, 6.45 – 7.30pm Cousins Hall

• Thursday 27 February – ACC Swimming Carnival 

• Thursday 6 March – Parent Series, Kirra Pendergast “Safe on Social” 

• Wednesday 5 March – Year 7 SEQTA evening 6.30 – 7.30pm 

• Tuesday 25 March – Music ensemble photos, 7.45am 

• Tuesday 8 April – St Stephen’s School worship. Tickets available mid-term.

• Thursday 10 April – The Arts Tour departs 

• Friday 11 April – Term 1 ends 

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• Ms Dunn’s Digest,
• Mrs Resta’s Reflections,
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist,
• Highlights from around the campus,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

2024 has been a whirlwind year, filled with many wonderful events celebrating our forty-year history, and at this point of the year we have the opportunity to celebrate our reason for being – the students of St Stephen’s School. 

I have the enormous privilege of watching our young people at both campuses begin their school lives as nervous little ones, going on to graduate from primary into high school and finally making their own way into a future beyond school. It is a progression of which I never tire, as each year group carries a different spirit and leaves their own legacy in our school.  

I am extremely proud to be part of the community of educators whom you have entrusted with the pastoral care and education of your young people. I look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate our students’ individual and collective achievements at our upcoming Presentation Evenings. 

I look forward to seeing you there, and wish you well for a safe, happy and restful festive season and blessed Christmas. 

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) 

Take care and God Bless, 

Donella Beare, Principal

Tickets for Presentation Evenings 2024 are still available

Tickets are still available for the 2024 St Stephen’s School Presentation Evenings. Bookings are essential but tickets are all free of charge.

All attendees, including guests, staff, awardees and performers must book a ticket. Parking will be provided on the oval.

Book online here https://ticketing.humanitix.com/tours/presentation-evenings-2024

Ms Dunn’s Digest

As the year winds down, let us embrace this holiday season as a gift – a time to renew our minds, bodies and spirits. Just as the vibrant summer fun fosters growth, let us also take time to rest, reflect, and care for ourselves, as Jesus invites us to find peace and restoration in Him.  Self-care is not only an act of renewal but a foundation for creativity, enabling us to approach the new year with fresh ideas, energy and inspiration. 

This Christmas, may you be filled with the light of Christ, the joy of loved ones, and moments of peaceful reflection. Let us cherish the gift of His love during Christmas. Allow it to guide and nurture our creative spirits.   

I look forward to greeting students, parents and staff in the new year ready to embrace fresh opportunities with faith, energy and imagination.  Wishing you a joyful holiday season.

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

This is by far one of the more exciting times of the year. A time to celebrate the wonderful achievements of our students, and a time to say one last farewell to our Year 12 graduating Class of 2024.  

At Duncraig campus we are looking forward and finalising our Presentation and Awards Evening that takes place on Tuesday 3 December. We look forward to seeing many of our families there as they enjoy the accolades of a fruitful 2024. 

On another high note. St Stephen’s School, Duncraig entered our first Ethics Olympiad. Mrs Amanda Rogers, our Gifted and Talented teacher, organised this opportunity and nine students across Years 7 and 8 participated.   

The teamwork shown by the Year 7 team was mentioned by more than one judge during the day.  The Year 8s listened to every piece of feedback and totally changed their approach and switched up their presentations.   

 I’m so proud to announce that St Stephen’s School Duncraig (White Team) won the Bronze Medal in the Year 8 competition! Honourable mentions were also awarded to the Year 7 Purple Team by the judges!

Well done and congratulations to all involved. We are excited for what the future holds for St Stephen’s School, Duncraig in this space. 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

With summer holidays around the corner, there are many opportunities for our students to experience the great outdoors. During these holidays I would encourage our students to get out from behind their computer screens, to be active and perhaps start something new. 

 Things to do that come to mind include: 

• Go to the beach 
• Learn to surf or go for a snorkle 

• Take a bike ride 

• Walk through the national park or follow a hiking trail 

• Go camping or fishing 

• Go on a picnic 

The list of possibilities is endless and they don’t require you to be super fit or even particularly organised but by being active your children will be helping their mental health and build closer connections with those who they choose to share their experience. 

 Hopefully at the end of the summer break some of these activities may become part of their weekly routine, providing a place of comfort, security and significant personal face to face connections. Merry Christmas! 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Campus highlights

Our Class of 2025 student leaders on their Captains’ Challenge!

Timae farewells our outgoing Dean, Mr Phil Timms with the ceremonial handing over of the blue wig of honour to incoming Dean, Melissa Beale.

Year 9 “Rite Journey” Homecoming event

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates  and you can check full details of the 2025 term dates on our website.

Please note the following key dates for Term 1 in the 2025 academic year:

• Tuesday 28 January Primary students return, Year 7 orientation 

• Wednesday 29 January Secondary students return 

• Tuesday 8 April St Stephen’s School worship 

• Friday 11 April Term 1 ends 

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• Ms Dunn’s Digest,
• Mrs Resta’s Reflections,
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist,
• Highlights from around the campus,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

While Term 4 is something of a whirlwind with a lot of events and activities in every part of our school, it is a time of year which I genuinely appreciate. 

The term provides us with the opportunity to look back and reflect on how much our young people have accomplished and grown over the course of the year. This year we have also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the humble beginnings of St Stephen’s School, and how much we’ve achieved together as a community over this time. 

Term 4 brings our community together to celebrate the things that unite us, a belief in the value of serving others and a connection to God. 

It is also a time which triggers anticipation of warm weather, family fun, relaxation and holidays after another busy and satisfying year of school! 

Planning is well underway for our end of year Presentation Evenings, and in our 40th year we look forward to welcoming you all to be part of our celebrations so please make sure you book your free tickets via the link below. 

I hope, like me, you can enjoy Term 4 for all the opportunities it presents.  I look forward to seeing you soon. 

Take care and God bless,
Donella Beare – Principal

Tickets for Presentation Evenings 2024 are now available

We are delighted to present the 2024 St Stephen’s School Presentation Evenings. Please join us to celebrate all that our students have accomplished in 2024. Bookings are essential but tickets are all free of charge.

All attendees, including guests, staff, awardees and performers must book a ticket. Parking will be provided on the oval.

Book online here https://ticketing.humanitix.com/tours/presentation-evenings-2024

Ms Dunn’s Digest

We wish all our Year 12 students well in the upcoming exams and assessments.  The educational journey is one for both you as the parent/guardian and your child/children.  At our celebratory graduation evening we invite a parent to share their proud moments and experiences.  With the permission of Genevieve Hays here are her reflections for the graduating class of 2024.  Her speech says it all! 

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

 My name is Genevieve Hays.  As a family we have a long association with and many points of connection to this wonderful school community. 2024 rounds out 20 years for Derek and I being parents at St Stephen’s.  Two decades of time, time we chose to invest into the education of our children. We talk about spending time or wasting time but intentionally spending is investing.  In those 20 years we have invested time in: 7,200 trips to or from school, not including the uncounted trips for forgotten computers or correct uniform pieces and left behind musical instruments across those years. 

Time spent doing parent hours in classrooms, at fetes, attending assemblies, music concerts, drama evenings, Synthesis exhibitions, cross countries, athletics carnivals, lightning carnivals. Evenings of eminence, science fairs, parent teacher interviews, orchestra festivals and presentation evenings and the like.  

Time spent doing over 1000 loads of washing uniforms, including around a dozen different types of school socks across girls, boys, ELC, PS and HS variations, none of which seemed to ever make it into the wash in pairs in our house.  

Time spent on spelling words, times tables , reading books, homework assignments, creating book week costumes and googling answers to maths problems to try to help with maths we couldn’t understand.  

Time is both a relentless and gentle force in our lives. It moves forward, unwavering and constant and yet it gives us countless moments to cherish, memories made. 

For each of us here tonight time has played a unique role in our journey to this day.  

For parents  – The time between birth and graduation seems to both drag at times and also fly by. A fellow parent sent me a text asking a question about grads day and began the message with “Can you believe our babies are on the verge of graduating?…’ The answer is both yes and no.  

The school FB account recently posted pictures of those who have been at the school from the first kindy class of 2011 through to 2024’s year 12s we see here – photos of blonde haired chubby cheeks and pigtails next to, juxtaposed with chiselled jawlines and poised beauty. Photos of time passed. I may have gotten a little teary.  

Weren’t they those little cuties only a moment ago? 

I remember dropping our children off at kindy, which for us was one of their first forays out into the world beyond our home. I remember the tentative steps, shyness at meeting new people and the tears (mostly mine) that surrounded this time.  

The time of school years seemed to stretch forth endlessly before us at this starting point. And now here we are at the completion of that journey. As parents time has afforded us the front-row seats to the growth of our children across their school years where we have witnessed and invested into the ups and downs of their academic achievements and struggles, to their social and personal development – each phase a testament to their time spent here at St Stephen’s School. The excellent and the challenging times.  

The graduating of our children forces us to face the passing of time and to both celebrate and perhaps regret how our time has been spent in those years.  

Time shifts for our family now…away from the daily routines of school life to a new and as yet unfamiliar rhythm of having no children going to school. Time though with a new freedom in it…especially from the chasing up of Consent-to-Go emails that I always seemed to miss.

To the teachers – Thank you!! Deeply and sincerely we thank you for obvious time and the behind-the-scenes time, the paid work hours of time and the personal investment of time that goes into the excellence and passion that you each have brought to your classrooms and the lives of our children. Thank you for those moments in time where you have seen our child uniquely and met them where they have been at, thank you for the tiresome moments of repeating yourself or of bringing timely rebuke. Thank you, teachers, for investing your time into helping make each graduate here today the people they have become between kindy and year 12.  

To the graduating class of 2024 –Today is a day of both reflection and anticipation.  Your years at St Stephen’s may have felt long and perhaps arduous at times but now may feel like they are ending suddenly. Your time and how you have invested it up to this point has largely been dictated to you inside the confines and familiarity of the daily routines of the school timetable.  

Time for each of you now opens up, expands and grows larger. This ending of one era of time for you is a new beginning of the next chapter of your life’s story.  

How will you invest this time? 

Time spent at St Stephen’s has afforded you wonderful opportunities to not simply learn in a classroom but to experience the world whether through incursions, excursions, camps, service learning interactions with the communities we live in, of the diversity of lived experiences across our city, experiences of other cultures and school trips; dive tours and overseas trips.  These are the experiences that will now launch you into broader opportunities for you to pursue further studies or jobs out of the experiences you have had at school. These experiences have shaped you; have helped to forge your identity and hone your talents and have helped develop in you new skills.  

May I encourage you to choose wisely how you invest your time. Choose who and what will be worthy of your time. 

Society likes to criticise this generation as being time wasters – too much time spent being consumers of meaningless short-form content etc However I don’t see that. I see a generation ready to invest time in seeking, questioning and critically thinking about the world around you and who you will become in it. 

Standford University describes this generation in terms like ‘authentic’ and ‘questioning’ and ‘curious’ and ‘pragmatic’. Ones looking for inter-generational dialogue to help make sense of the world’.  

Questioning and seeking and relating to others takes time. They are worthy pursuits in your investment of time.  

No matter what you are planning to spend your time on as you leave school, As a person of faith I encourage you amidst your seeking to invest time seeking God. It will enrich your life. In this I encourage you not to let what you may have experienced so far through school, or church or family to be the end point of that search.  

In the Bible, in a book called Jeremiah God speaks to us and says: 

Jeremiah 29:12-14 NIV
Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart. I will be found by you. 

What a great promise! 

In closing, I encourage you all to embrace the passage of time at St Stephen’s with gratitude and intention. Celebrate your achievements, savour your experiences, make the most of every moment and as parents we congratulate you.  

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

Good Luck to all Year 12 students who will be starting their ATAR exams next week and to our Year 11 students who will preparing for their second round of exams and assessments  

I would like to talk about active study. 

This is exactly what it says it is. Try some of these tips and see if it makes a difference to your study routine. 

• Practise examples 

• Make definition and formula cards 

• Say it aloud 

• Explain it to someone 

• Visualise it. 

• Actively read, underline, highlight annotate 

• Practise under time pressure 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with Mr Gilchrist

Looking after yourself 

Looking after your emotional wellbeing can help you navigate some of the challenges of raising teenagers. The following ideas are taken from https://raisingchildren.net.au/ The Australian Parenting website. This site suggests ways to help you to Look after your own wellbeing while parenting teenagers. Consider the following. 

1. Keeping things in perspective can help with this. For example, if you’re having an argument with your child, you could try asking yourself, ‘Do we really need to fight about this? Can I let this one go?’ When you let go of small issues, you save your energy for more important issues like your child’s health, safety and wellbeing.
2. Looking for positives can help with your emotional wellbeing too.  For example, if your child offers to help someone out, you might say to yourself, ‘Nice – I’m glad I’ve taught my child to think about others like that’. It’s time to congratulate yourself on all the good work you’ve done to get your child to this stage.
3. Activities like mindfulness, muscle relaxation and breathing exercises can help you learn to calm down and relax. This is good for your wellbeing generally, and it can also be useful in challenging situations. For example, these strategies can help you manage natural and common emotions like stress, anxiety and even anger in healthy ways.
4. Family rituals can build family togetherness and wellbeing. They can help you all feel positive about your family relationships. And rituals help teenagers feel loved and part of the family. No matter how bored they might seem, teenagers find rituals comforting. Examples might include a regular Sunday night dinner, regular family outings or religious ceremonies.
5. Self-compassion helps you be kind to yourself as you navigate the challenges of raising teenagers. Self-compassion is good for you, because it reduces stress and anxiety. And it’s good for your child, because you can better support your child when you’re feeling good yourself. Self-compassion also sets a great example for your child. 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Campus highlights

Congratulations to our Class of 2025 House and School Captains! (some of our Captains were out at other school events on this day)

Alethea – Dean, Mrs Kirra Muni (Acting)
Our Alethea School Captains are Elissa Groves (left) and Isla Blair (second from left). House Captains are Ainsley Montile (next to Dean), Jonathan Groenwald, Jessica May and Macy Carter (not pictured).

Carana – Dean, Mr Stuart Gale
Our Carana School Captains are Amelie Wardlaw and Max McCullough (back row). House Captains (L – R) are Joshwa Ruiz, Alyssa Hardingham, Joshua Lynn and Harrison Harrup-Gregory.

Timae – Dean, Mr Phil Timms
Our Timae School Captains are Luke Herrmann (not pictured) and Emily Charlton (pictured centre). House Captains are Isabel Bradley (left), Isaac Pearson (not pictured), Jacob Atkinson and Victoria Hill.

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates and full details of the below events.

Join us for a wonderful evening of family-friendly fun!

– Food trucks
– market stalls
– live entertainment
– face painting, and
– a cuddly animal farm!

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• Our WA Charity Direct Student Committee needs your help,
• Ms Dunn’s Digest,
• Mrs Resta’s Reflections,
• Parenting with Mr Gilchrist,
• Highlights from around the campus,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

It’s an exciting and invigorating time of year on so many levels.  

The sun is shining, the mornings are brighter, trees are in bud and there is excitement for the warmer months ahead after an especially wet Winter.  

For our Year 12s and their families there is a similar sense of anticipation for what comes next. Of course, there is the challenge of final exams, assessments and completing certificate requirements for our VET students, although there is also the expectation of the innumerable options and opportunities for our students after graduation.  

This time is especially poignant for the Duncraig Class of 2024 as we say farewell to our very first class of kindergarten students who began their education journey with us back in 2011 when the ELC was established. They have all come so far, and we are very proud of all of them.  

As parents and educators, we have done all we can to nurture and develop our young people and now must trust them to step forward with greater independence than ever before. They have all come so far, and we are very proud of all of them. 

As we head into the last week of term, Year 12s, I encourage you all to continue carrying yourselves with dignity while enjoying this wonderful time of celebration. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and your families.  

Finally, congratulations to our athletics team for being crowned B Division Champions at yesterday’s ACC Athletics Carnival! What a feat! Not only were our team overall winners, they were also:

• Junior girls runners up
• Junior boys champions
• Senior boys champions
• Overall boys champions

This is especially remarkable given that we are the smallest school in the Division and had 13 students out with injuries! Thanks to all the students who stepped in at the last minute to compete in their absence. You made us all very proud. Thank you to also to Matt Richmond, Head of HPE and all the HPE staff for their dedication and commitment in training and supporting our students to this exceptional outcome!

Take care and God bless,
Donella Beare – Principal

Can you help? The WA Charity Direct Student Council needs you

Would you like to support children undergoing cancer treatment, assist women experiencing homelessness, enable research into melanoma or help to foster literacy by funding a “Story Dog”?  By making a donation to the St Stephen’s School WA Charity Direct Student Committee you can help fund a range of important not-for-profit projects. Read the full story and find out how you can help here.

Ms Dunn’s Digest

Expect More, Achieve More: Lessons from the Paralympics
The Paralympics prove it—greatness isn’t just about ability; it’s about daring to defy expectations.

As the Paralympics light up our screens with some truly awe-inspiring athleticism, I recommend listening to Dylan Alcott.

Dylan’s journey is phenomenal. From winning gold in wheelchair basketball at the 2008 Paralympics to smashing records in tennis—15 singles and 8 doubles Grand Slam titles—he’s proven time and again that limits are meant to be broken.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Dylan is also celebrated for his philanthropy and the impactful work he does through the Dylan Alcott Foundation.

Dylan’s speech was his insight into the real challenge he faces: not his disability, but the low expectations others have about what people with disabilities can achieve.

How often do we, even unintentionally, set the bar too low? With our children, our families, ourselves? By watching these Paralympians, it is a reminder that it’s critical we widen our lens and recognise that every single person has unique strengths just waiting to shine.

With the lead up to the end of year whether you child is studying for exams, going on work experience, competing and following their path we aim to always encourage, support, resource and champion the fullness of their potential as parents and educators to see what extraordinary things unfold.

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Mrs Resta’s Reflection

This is always an exciting time of year in the Secondary School. We are walking our Year 12 students through their final weeks of high school. The term will conclude with the culmination of twelve years of schooling, the 

Year 12 Graduation. Please take some time to chat to our Year 12’s about their reflections and their future plans. Take a moment to pop into the House Farewells and the Year 12 worship on Thursday. If you have got your tickets enjoy the Grad Dinner at Perth Convention Centre or simply pop down for a photo before the event.  

Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2024. You have what it takes to make it in the world. You have made it to the next stage. You are well equipped for the next part of the journey. We look at the young men and women you have become with great pride. We know you are ready for whatever life may bring. 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching and Learning

Parenting with MrGilchrist

With the changing of the seasons and the arrival of warmer weather, more and more opportunities to get out and about arise. The school holidays are just around the corner and it is a good opportunity for families to reconnect away from the busy-ness of life.  

During these holidays I encourage families to plan to make the time to ‘do something together’. Perhaps you could go to a movie, go camping, ride your bikes or go for a walk to the beach. For some, going out for a meal together may be the opportunity to catch up and simply ‘chew the fat’. It doesn’t matter what we do to connect, what works for some families won’t work for others. The key to connection is being intentional, being relational and creating multiple opportunities to engage with one another outside the hum drum of everyday experiences. It is these shared activities, both the big events and little simple things, that strengthen our relationships, building trust and a sense of belonging. Enjoy catching up with your loved ones. 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Campus highlights

Interhouse Athletics Carnival
Was it the Carana costumes that led to their triumph in the Interhouse Athletics? You be the judge!

There were some nail-biting moments in the Year 7 boys’ high jump as Hugh Kraut smashed Max McCullogh’s, record.

Bohemian Rhapsody had everyone spellbound at the Arts Assembly

In a St Stephen’s School first, our students produced three books as part of the “Write a book in a day” competition!

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates and full details of the below events.

• Wednesday 18 September – Grads Festival events and Year 12 Graduation Dinner
• Thursday 19 September – Year 12 Grads worship and farewell
• Friday 20 September – last day of Term 3
• Tuesday 8 October – first day of Term 4 – see page 26 of the Parent Handbook for guidance on uniform
• Thursday 17 October – Synthesis exhibition opening night

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• A message from Ms Dunn,
• Hear from our new Deputy Head of Secondary (Teaching and Learning), Nicola Resta,
• Parenting tip from Deputy Head of Secondary (Care), Russell Gilchrist,
• Highlights from around the campus,
• Community notices,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

Term 3 has definitely begun on a very high note with the season of The Addams Family well underway as I write. I am so very proud of our community coming together and drawing on each other’s skills, experience and talents to produce such an excellent show! If you haven’t bought tickets yet, I sincerely encourage you to make some time to come along with the family. It’s funny, visually stunning and both the dramatic and musical performances are of an incredibly high standard.   

Thank you to all our staff who have gone above and beyond to support our student actors and musicians to shine in what I am sure will be a memory of a lifetime.  

It’s a bittersweet time of year for everyone at secondary level. We’re proud to see how far our Year 12s have come and can sense their readiness to take the next step into the world and yet it’s only a few short weeks before we will say our formal goodbyes at our graduation events. I trust that everyone will enjoy this time together. 

Finally, good luck to all students who are taking part in the Athletics Carnivals next week! 

Take care and God bless,
Donella Beare – Principal

Ms Dunn’s Digest

Reconnecting
Seeing the return of students this past week enjoying conversations with peers whilst moving to classes and the sharing of lunches around the campus has been a highlight. The vibrancy of engagement in Houses, the preparation for our whole school production The Addams Family and the Year 12s upcoming preparations for all their ‘lasts’ is a reminder that the end of the year is drawing closer.  

For all of us, when was the last time you spoke to your child about their schedules? Sometimes it is tiring just hearing about everything they do.  Research shows adolescents get the least amount of sleep.  Consider what your son or daughter does in a 24-hour day.  Maybe they are a best friend or support person, a late-night studier, a “give it all” athlete, a devoted volunteer, a social media devotee, a son or daughter, a brother, sister or grandchild. Psychologists call this role overload: when you have too many roles to play. We all support our children to believe they can be and do anything. All opportunity requires balance and awareness of cultural societal expectations. 

It is helpful, however, to remind our young people that plenty of sleep and excellent nutrition are critical to optimal functioning. It may seem tedious to position these reminders so regularly, yet for a growing brain, there is no substitute for good basic routines. 

Applying positive habits, we can help with the “training routine”.  As parents the well-worn strategies that can assist with your child’s study and general well-being include: 

1. Nine hours of sleep per night 
2. Ample fuel (oodles of fresh fruit and vegetables, as opposed to processed food) 
3. Regular exercise 
4. Limiting access to electronic devices, especially at night 
5. Not permitting technology in the bedroom for sleep time 
6. Enabling a one-hour wind-down period before sleep 
7. Separating the study space from the sleeping space 
8. Helping to prioritise and plan the week’s commitments 
9. Choosing optimistic thinking around challenges. 

This link may also be helpful in your discussions with your child/ren – https://www.sleepfoundation.org/teens-and-sleep 

Rosemarie Dunn, Head of Campus

Message from our new Deputy Head of Secondary (Teaching and Learning)

One of my favourite French Authors is Antoine de Saint Exupery. As I begin my new position, I find myself reflecting on his quote “As for the future, your task is not to foresee it, but to enable it.”  

In short, it is impossible to predict the future. As our students prepare for their final two years of high school they are often bombarded with the question “What do you want to do when you’re older?”  We should hold Saint Exupery’s quote in our minds as we talk with our young adults. Their job is not to foresee their future but to enable it. Quite simply, take the next steps. 

This week I have been counselling our Year 10 students in their subject selections for upper school.  There are some common themes that arise from these conversations I want to share with you. 

• Students do not need to map out the rest of their lives at this point but should simply have an idea of what a Year 13 looks like. 
• Choose subjects that, with appropriate effort, you are likely to achieve success. It is important to achieve the best possible results to keep more options open in the future. 
• Research future university courses and attend open days. 
• Ask questions and reach out to our Career Advisor here at school. 
• As parents and guardians, keep informed.  
• Try asking “How” questions. “How can I help you find that out?” 
• Be supportive and non-judgmental of your child’s decisions.  

I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks and feel privileged to be part of your journey. 

Mrs Nicola Resta, Deputy Head of Secondary (Teaching and Learning)

Parenting tip

“Citius, Altius, Fortius” – Swifter, Higher, Stronger
With the arrival of the 2024 Paris Olympics, I have found myself spellbound by the performances of these elite athletes. Their individual brilliance and successes have been captivating. However, amongst appreciation of these performances, I have been reflecting on the question, what characteristics do each and every one of these athletes, have in common and what lessons can we learn from their greatness. 

 For me, there are four clear themes that allow for their success. 

1.  Defining a vision and set SMART goals – Each athlete knows what they want to achieve and set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound goals. The vision is to be the best athlete they can possibly be, to be an Olympian and possibly a gold medallist. 
2.  Embracing failure or setbacks as a stepping stone – Each athlete at Paris has experienced disappointment through combinations of injury or poor form, bad luck or technical glitches. Working through these setbacks has built resilience and determination to do better and to overcome. 
3. A growth mindset – The Olympic athlete is never satisfied that they have performed the perfect race. With the achievement of a personal best comes the new goals: faster times, lifting heavier weights, finding a new more challenging limit. The athlete attitude that he or she can always improve and should never be satisfied. 
4. Determination to do their best – Each athlete has given hour after hour of their very best in both in training and in competition prior to the Olympics. Doing your best on all occasions, regardless of the situation, prepares the athlete for excellence. Hard work is required whether performing in front of the 100,000 spectators or alone in the backyard or the family home.

At St Stephen’s School, we know that God wants us to give of our best for the sake of others. So let’s apply these lessons to our everyday living being the best person you can possibly be, determined to do better and to overcome when challenges arise, understanding that we each can always improve and by simply doing your best on all occasions, you can make a difference. 

Mr Russell Gilchrist, Deputy Head of Secondary – Care

Campus highlights

Some highlights of The Addams Family in rehearsal!
We look forward to sharing photos from the live show in our full school newsletter in Week 6. In the meantime, these are a few fun pics of our cast and crew in rehearsals. Thanks to alumnus, Callum Smith, from CSmith Photography for capturing these moments for us! A few tickets may still be on sale by the time you read this. Bookings can be made online here.

HASS ON TOUR!
During July, 48 Year 9 students and six staff from the Carramar and Duncraig campuses participated in a 10-day educational tour to Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. This extensive cross-campus HASS Tour was an incredibly busy one, and everyone enjoyed the new experiences and friendships that were made.  

While the Tour was bookended by visits to the MCG and Sydney Opera House, in Canberra the group attended the old Parliament and current Parliament Houses, Questacon, the National Museum, the Australian Mint, the National War Memorial and the Australian Institute of Sport. There was even time at the Thredbo ski-fields, where the students very much enjoyed the snow. They absorbed a considerable amount of Australia’s history, culture and democracy, with education and fun going hand in hand as it should.  

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government contributes funding of $510 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion. 

Special thanks to our Tour Coordinator, Mrs Taylor as well as Mr Barnes, Ms Erasmus, Mr Osborne, Ms Koutsoukos, and Ms Glacken for working with the awesome students who participated in this very successful tour. 

COMMUNITY NOTICES

A leadership opportunity for your kids!
Host a visiting Japanese student in August for a short 13-night stay and give your child the opportunity to connect with a new culture and enrich their worldview. The program is available across both Duncraig and Carramar school campuses from 23 August – 5 September.

 ✔️ Create Friendships: Welcoming a student sparks real friendships and cultural connections that last a lifetime.
✔️ Cultural Enrichment: Share your daily life and learn about Japanese customs and traditions firsthand.
✔️ 24/7 Bilingual Support: Receive 24/7 bilingual support and a $650 payment to help cover costs.
Apply via this link 👉 https://www.goldil.com.au/st-stephens-aug 

Do you have any old glasses sitting around at home?
As part of our Service Learning tour to Vietnam in January 2025, one of the organisations we are partnering with, Hearts for Hue, have informed us that they would sincerely appreciate any donations of old reading glasses. We have placed a collection box in Secondary Student Services at Duncraig, and Student Services at Carramar for you to drop in any old, unwanted glasses. Thank you for your support!

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates.
Please click on the images below to book for each event aside from the prayer group for which no booking is required.

In this newsletter:

• Principal’s message,
• Community spirit,
• A message from Ms Dunn,
• A farewell from Dr Criddle
• Parenting tip from Dean of Carana, Stuart Gale,
• Highlights from around the campus,
• Community notices,
• Dates for your diary,

Principal’s message

It has been a busy and fulfilling term for us all at St Stephen’s School. After starting the term literally with a bang when we achieved our goal of attaining the world record for most confetti cannons launched simultaneously, our students have gone on to some excellent achievements in the Arts, interhouse and inter-school sports and we have supported our senior students through the first round of major exams of 2024. 

On Monday we are looking forward to officially opening our brand-new, state-of-the-art Science building although I’m sure you’ve heard from your children about the fantastic features and the beautiful spaces in the new building. These new facilities have already sparked scientific interest and enabled a range of experiments not previously possible.  

We’re also releasing tickets for The Addams Family on Monday, so I encourage you to book your tickets quickly to avoid disappointment and come along to support our incredibly talented performers from both campuses. You will receive an email from me on Monday morning so keep an eye out for that. 

Thank you to all our staff for their commitment to coaching, rehearsals, extra academic support and running retreats and excursions which enrich the lives of our students and help to make our school community a vibrant one. 

I trust that you all will enjoy a happy, safe and peaceful mid-year break. We look forward to welcoming you all back for Term 3. 

Take care and God bless,
Donella Beare – Principal

Community spirit 

One of our students, Darcy Metcalf, was involved in a life-changing car accident in 2023. He spent four months in Royal Perth Hospital and is currently undergoing intensive rehabilitation in Fiona Stanley Hospital. His recovery is slow but progressing. He’s reached a point where he’s nearly ready to be home with his family, and his medical team are working towards discharging him within the next eight weeks. Chailee Richards, a close family friend has set up a GoFundMe page to help raise money for renovations to the family home that will accommodate Darcy’s wheelchair and future independence. Please keep Darcy in your prayers, and visit his Go Fund Me page to contribute in any way you can. Thank you on behalf of Darcy, his family and his great support network. 

Ms Dunn’s Digest

Mindsets matter!
Latest research states that a student’s mindset has significant influence on their levels of attainment in Mathematics, reading, Science and more. Students who possess ‘motivation calibration’ can identify what motivation looks like in everyday life and are most likely to succeed.

It is important to note ‘motivation calibration’ is different to ‘motivation’.  Students who self-identified as “wanting to be the best and wanting top grades” scored only 5% higher than those who did not.

What does motivation calibration actually look like?  It means to consistently do more than what is expected and always completing tasks to a high standard and then calibrating to this norm to improve study habits. Students with good motivation calibration scored 13% higher in their results.

Having a growth mindset and a sense of belonging has a positive effect on student outcomes.  Utilising self-regulation strategies and perseverance improves mindsets and is a promising way to support achievement and help students attain their personal best.

Recharge time!
At this time of the term students have been involved in exams or completing assessments and managing an increased workload. With the upcoming term break this is a timely reminder for our families to recalibrate and to be intentional in being in the present moment.

We can practice this by sitting quietly and tuning into our body or just breathing, or more actively practice through walking, mindful listening or through prayer. Research has shown the flow on benefits include increased resilience, concentration, and ability to learn.

There are also several apps that can be helpful to practice being mindful. Some recommendations are ‘Headspace’ and ‘Smiling Mind’. They provide listening activities of various lengths and can be listened to before starting homework, study or going to sleep.

Holidays are an opportunity to re-set, too!

Some quick tips to help maximise study

• Eliminate all distractions such as mobile phones, TV and access to sites such as Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram.
• Keep the house quiet during study time.
• Provide good lighting, cool temperatures, and a desk with a supportive chair.
• Keep the workspace neat and clear of clutter.
• Maintain an upright posture while studying.

Good organisation habits of successful learners to discuss with your children include:

• Recording regular commitments and upcoming work set in advance.
• Scheduling work to help keep workloads in perspective and prevent tasks being suddenly due or overwhelmingly large.
• Making to do lists and crossing items off to provide a feeling of accomplishment.
• Chunking tasks into small sections to complete.
• Seeking clarification from a teacher when a task is not completely clear, well in advance of the due date.

Wishing you all a safe and rejuvenating break with your families and looking forward to your return for Term 3.

Rosemarie Dunn – Head of Campus

Farewell from Dr Criddle

My time at St Stephen’s School is coming to an end this term, and I will miss this community dearly. It has been a privilege to be part of this incredible school and to contribute to its story.

I have a lengthy history here. My first ever teaching role, as a brand-new graduate, was at Duncraig campus back in the mid-1990s. I held many roles in my first teaching position such as teacher, instigator of inter-school debating, CAS Coach, Head of Department, and founding staff member at Carramar – one of the first staff to work cross-campus. I left SSS to expand my career and enjoy opportunities at other schools across Australia.

When I returned to St Stephen’s ten years ago, wonderful reconnections were made. In particular the opportunity to work K-12 acro

ss all five of our sites with all our staff (both teaching and non-teaching) as the inaugural Director of Teaching and Learning was fantastic. There have been colleagues who I taught, parents I taught enrolling their children and alumni returning to contribute. While no place is perfect, the number of people choosing to reconnect with the school is significant, and reflective of why I returned. In total I have worked nearly 18 years of my career here and have never been stagnant, have always enjoyed the challenges.

This is a school with a culture that supports “giving it a go”. Our students are all-too familiar with my mantra which is for all to have a growth mindset – to approach tasks with curiosity, give your best, and understand that if you are struggling there will always be a strategy to assist. We are part of a school community that supports and enables this, understanding that we are all connected and want to belong.

As an educator, I often don’t see the wonderful ongoing effects and results until much later when an ex-student returns to tell their story or when I am lucky enough to bump into them elsewhere. We are curating the future and creating possibility every day, with a long-term view to the potential of every student and staff member.

In farewell, I offer this reflective prayer that I presented at a recent devotion. It holds much meaning for me.

I wish all in our community the very best for the future possibilities ahead.

Liz Criddle – Deputy Head of Secondary – Teaching & Learning

Parenting tip

In this edition we thank Dean of Carana, Stuart Gale, for sharing his insights and experiences relating to social media, technology and teens.

As we all know, technology plays a huge role in our lives and most of the time for the better. However, we do know that teenagers can struggle to regulate their own screen time and need assistance and guidance in managing their online interactions, and whether they know it or not (or even like it or not) they actually do need us to help keep them safe online.

As a parent of three teenagers myself, I am all too aware of the influence technology can have in our homes and on the lives of our kids. In my own home, we have had to address our use of mobile phones and computers and put strategies in place to help keep our kids safe online.

Social media
There are potential dangers online that many teenagers come across daily. Social media can be a huge part of a teenager’s daily life, and used well it can be beneficial, but there are many traps kids can fall into.

The impulse to obsessively check Snapchat and achieve ‘streaks’ can be a pressure for our kids, the constant ‘ping’ of notifications coming through at all times of the day or night can lead to anxiety and interrupt regular sleep patterns. Location and privacy can be problematic if the settings aren’t managed carefully.

The internet
The internet can be all pervading in our homes if we let it and so it is helpful for us as parents to be aware of what our kids are watching and participating in.

Pornography is all too easy for our kids to access. In a recent Australian study of 15–29-year-olds, 100% of boys and young men and 82% of girls and young women reported ever viewing pornography. The median age for first exposure was 13 years for boys and 16 for girls. Clearly, the young people in our care are certainly in that ‘at risk’ phase so we must be vigilant.

Online gaming
Gaming can also be of concern for some of our kids. Games are becoming more violent and more realistic in their violence, and sexual references and nudity regularly appear in video games that our children can access. Exposure to racist, misogynistic, and extreme perspectives are concerning, especially when teenagers don’t yet have the tools to analyse these ideas.

What can we do?
In the context of these issues, an important first question is whether we are comfortable with devices being in our kids’ bedrooms outside of our direct supervision. I encourage you to think carefully about this one, and to make the call and remove them if you are concerned. Your kids may not like this to begin with, but it will help them, and the whole household, in the long run.

Fortunately, there is a lot of help and advice available to parents. Of course, we must work with our kids to educate them and keep them safe at the same time.

There are also safeguards we, as parents can apply to our kids’ computers and phones to restrict certain content, turn off the device at night, and restrict what is watched or downloaded.

Below are some links to guide you through the process of setting up safeguards on your child’s device whether they have an Apple or Android device.

If you have an iPhone or Apple computer, you can use Apple screen time:

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/iphone/iphb0c7313c9/ios

https://support.apple.com/en-au/108806

Family sharing lets you set up permissions for your child’s Apple device from your own device:

https://support.apple.com/en-au/108380

Microsoft family safety for Microsoft devices:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/microsoft-365/family-safety

For Android mobile devices:

https://families.google/familylink/

Parental control apps

There are also many apps that parents can download onto our own phones to set up safeguards on a teen’s device.

https://www.techradar.com/best/best-parental-control-app-of-year

https://au.pcmag.com/parental-control-monitoring/44998/the-best-parental-control-software

https://www.safewise.com/au/best-parental-control-apps-software/

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-and-advice/parental-controls

We urge you to seriously consider applying these, regardless of how well it appears your teen is using technology. I use these with my own kids not because I don’t trust them, but because I know the world they live in can be extremely difficult to navigate. There are temptations and pressures in their world that we just didn’t have when we were kids and it’s our responsibility to help them work through these pressures as best they can. It’s not about trust, it’s about guarding their minds and their hearts.

If you have any questions or would like some further guidance in any of these matters please don’t hesitate to be in contact with your teen’s Dean of House or Campus leadership team. As the saying goes, ‘we’re all in this together’ so if we can work in partnership our children can only be better off.

Stuart Gale – Dean of Carana, Duncraig campus
(on behalf of the Deans at Carramar and Duncraig)

HIGHLIGHTS FROM AROUND THE CAMPUS

Class of 2024 Year 12 Retreat
Thanks to Amelie van Wyk for sharing her thoughts about Retreat on behalf of the Class of 2024. Many thanks to all our staff who made Retreat a memorable experience for all our students.

Rookie Debating Grand Final
In last week’s Rookie Debating Grand Final “The Point Provers” in the affirmative took on “The Debating Dynamos” in the negative on the topic “Should Australia implement a four-day school week?”  After a well-argued debate, The Debating Dynamos took the honours. Congratulations to the best debater on the day, Eli Lawson, Year 6 best debater, Poppy Gilbert, Year 7 best debater and Grand Final Chairperson, Elliot Wright (pictured right). Thanks to our staff and Year 11s Jacob Atkinson and Victoria Hill for their guidance and support of our Rookie Debaters!

ACC Cross-country update
We’re incredibly proud of our ACC Cross-country team. After months of gruelling preparation we are proud that our female team was placed fourth overall with St Stephen’s School Duncraig placing ninth overall out of 84 schools. We also had some fantastic individual honours with Emma Hill- Year 7 (ninth), Willow Potter – Year 10 (ninth), Isabella Heathcote – Year 11 (second). Congratulations to all our runners and thanks to our HPE staff for their training and mentoring support. We’ve just heard, too, that Isabella (pictured centre) has been named in the School Sport WA Cross-country team which will be travelling to Melbourne to compete in the National event in August. Good luck, Isabella! 

Career Expo and University Interviews

Representatives from over 50 organisations came together for our 2024 Careers Expo. Hundreds of students and parents from both Carramar and Duncraig campuses were able to ask questions about courses, occupations, career pathways and business opportunities for their future.  We were especially blessed to have some of our parents presenting on behalf of their workplaces and industries. Everyone walked away with information to support their future career decision plans.

Despite torrential rain on Thursday 6 June, over 50 students and their parents from Years 10-12 came to the library after school to have individual meetings with representatives from Universities and North Metro TAFE. Students and parents were able to ask questions about specific areas of interest and alternate pathways to courses such as engineering, medicine and physiotherapy. It was fantastic for students to be reassured that there are many options available to them. They were all encouraged to continue to get the best possible marks that they can – whether that was ATAR or General courses – as that was the best way to ensure there were options for them when they finish Year 12. Everyone who attended appreciated the opportunity to get advice that was specific to their own pathway and abilities.

2024 Inter-house Surfing results

Some great surfing was on display last week during our Interhouse Surfing Competition! Congratulations to all involved and a huge thank you to our HPE staff, Chelsea Unwin and Sean Nugent for their coordination of a fantastic day.

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Train with AFL pros
Calling all footy players aged 14-17! Join the Athletic Institute to train like the pros with football skills from AFL player Elijah Hewett, mindset training by premiership player Mark Hutchings and fitness testing benchmarked to AFL standards and more! Don’t miss this chance to elevate your game, book now at https://athleticinstitute.com.au/ 

Do you have any old glasses sitting around at home?
As part of our Service Learning tour to Vietnam in January 2025, one of the organisations we are partnering with, Hearts for Hue, have informed us that they would sincerely appreciate any donations of old reading glasses. We have placed a collection box in Secondary Student Services at Duncraig, and Student Services at Carramar for you to drop in any old, unwanted glasses. Thank you for your support!

Dates for your diary

Remember you can always visit the St Stephen’s School calendar for key dates

• Friday 28 June – last day of Term 2
• Monday 22 July – first day of Term 3 – winter uniform