Head of Secondary School
Navigating Media, Emotions and News Events: A Guide for Informed Discussions
In an age of constant connectivity, the way we consume and interpret media, especially concerning distressing news events, is of paramount importance. Teenagers, some of the most media-connected individuals, often encounter a deluge of information about social issues, natural disasters, and conflicts. However, not all this information is reliable; opinions often overshadow facts.
On Tuesday, Ms Jansons (Dean of Students), spoke to Year 7-9 about students possessing the potential to be discerning media consumers. She outlined that when distressing events occur, deciphering the flood of messages can be challenging. It’s vital for our young people to approach media and disaster news critically, fostering diverse perspectives while managing their emotions and looking after themselves.
Students were encouraged to consider the complexities of big news events, to take a moment to reflect on their thoughts, emotions, information sources and questions about big issues.
The proliferation of information on social media has made understanding big news issues daunting. Social media plays a significant role in disseminating news and opinions. It’s important that we as adults and our young people pose crucial questions about media consumption and the influence of social media algorithms on our perspectives.
Choosing understanding over assumption when responding to complex issues is vital. Students were encouraged to engage with credible resources, seek diverse perspectives, ask critical questions, and engage in respectful discussion to build a comprehensive understanding of global issues.
Together, we can navigate the sea of information in our modern world, looking after ourselves and others in the process. If you’re looking for more information on supporting your child at home, Raising Children Network’s article ‘Disaster News and Distressing News Events: Supporting Teenagers’ provides some great tips and hints for parents.
We Are All in Exam Mode
HSC exams continued this week, with students sitting a range of Extension subjects, Biology, Drama, and Chemistry. The IB exams began on Monday with students sitting a variety of Language papers, Business Management, Physics, Sports, Exercise and Health Science, Computer Science and Environmental Systems and Societies. Our Year 12 students have managed the lead up to exams exceptionally and have continued this positivity as the exams have begun. They have been in the right place, at the right time, ready to write their exams and be the best that they can be. The Deans of HSC and IB, Mrs Benjamin and Mr Taylor, as well as Year Advisors Mr Walker and Ms Martin, are very proud of how the students have conducted themselves throughout this examination period; they are excellent role models for their younger peers also sitting exams at this time. We wish them well for the remainder of their exams.
Our Year 7 and Year 10 students are congratulated for their exemplary conduct during the Yearly Exams this week. Their dedication to the values of integrity, resilience and hard work has been a shining example for their peers in Years 8 and 9 who will commence their exams next week. Our students consistently demonstrated the message that was given at the start of Term 4, that ‘other people matter,’ and they can be proud that they exhibited respect and consideration for their fellow peers during the exams, creating an atmosphere of unity and support. Their strength of character and positive attitude throughout the examination week showed that our Years 7 and 10 students are well on their way to achieving even greater accomplishments and building stronger study skills in the years ahead.
We wish Years 8 and 9 well for their examinations commencing in Week 4. In these final few days leading up to the exams, we cannot underestimate the significance of practising past papers and revising diligently. It is during this time that students’ efforts are often consolidated and translated into success. Staying focused and steadfast in their study endeavours is key to making the most of this preparation period. To stay on track, it’s essential that students stick to a study schedule that accommodates breaks for rest and relaxation. Adhering to a schedule will provide structure and ensure that all subjects receive due attention. As we wish our Year 8 and 9 students well for their exams, we also encourage them to remember that a well-balanced combination of focused study, exercise, sleep and a good diet (especially a substantial breakfast) will contribute to a composed mindset which will go a long way in achieving academic excellence during this important time.
Wellbeing Support Session for Parents
HSC and IB Senior Studies Information Evening
Years 10-11 Cocurricular Drama Production – A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Ms Gemma Van de Peer
Head of Secondary School
gvandepeer@redlands.nsw.edu.au
9968 9811