Gliding Past the Midway Point
Last Friday marked the halfway point of Term Four, and as we move into November, the Christmas break is beginning to appear on the horizon. However, with four important weeks of teaching and learning still ahead, it’s essential that students remain focused and actively engaged in their studies.
As we reach the mid-point of the term, it’s a great time to help your son re-set and refocus for the final weeks of the school year. Small, practical steps at home can make a big difference:
- Fresh haircut and polished shoes to start each day with confidence
- Cleaned-out school bag to stay organised
- Visible to-do list with tasks crossed off to track progress
- Consistent sleep habits to support focus and wellbeing
- Good study routines to reinforce learning
- Plenty of water as the weather warms up
Thank you, as always, for your continued support.
Social Media Legislation
A significant change is on the horizon regarding social media legislation for young people under the age of 16 in Australia. I want to thank the many parents who have already begun important conversations at home in light of this development. For those who haven’t yet had the opportunity, I encourage you to start the discussion with your son. These conversations are vital in helping our young people navigate the digital world with awareness, responsibility, and support. One helpful resource is the E Safety Commission website Social media age restrictions | eSafety Commissioner. This is an important conversation for all families. The College will continue to engage with students from a formative and safety perspective through our Formation Curriculum and in our partnership with parents in resolving matters pastorally and fairly as they arise.
What is happening?
From 10 December 2025, young people must be 16 or older to have an account on certain social media platforms in Australia. This includes:
- TikTok
- Snapchat
- YouTube
- X (formerly Twitter)
- And others
If a young person is under 16, these platforms are legally required to:
- Find and remove their existing account
- Stop them from creating a new one
- Prevent them from rejoining immediately with a new account
Young people won't be fined. Their parents won't be fined. This law isn't aimed at young people or families. But the platforms themselves like TikTok, Meta (which owns Instagram and Facebook), Snapchat and others can be fined up to $49.5 million if they break these rules or fail to protect under-16s as required. That's why we might start to see platforms acting more strictly. Not because they're targeting young people, but because they're now legally responsible. So even if a person under 16 has used an account for years, it may be removed. That's why it's important to download data, know the options, and understand rights early.
Why Is This Happening?
This change is meant to protect young people from some of the risks that come with having a social media account too early, like:
- Endless algorithm feeds that increase screen time
- Harmful or unsafe content
- Pressure to perform, compare, or be online constantly
It also gives young people more time to build digital literacy and learn how to stay safe and balanced online.
Clontarf Academy Celebration Night
Our College’s commitment to recognition and reconciliation is celebrated annually with our Clontarf Academy students, families and staff. This Thursday evening, we gather to acknowledge the achievements of our young men throughout the year.
The Clontarf Academy plays a vital role in promoting and supporting school attendance, engagement, health care, and employment opportunities for our 36 First Nations students. Within the Academy, there is a strong sense of community, meaningful relationships, fun, and purposeful work — all of which contribute to its vibrant spirit.
I extend my sincere thanks to Mr Matt Rea and Mr Josh Hoffman for their leadership and dedication in facilitating the centre and its programs. I also thank all staff who mentor and support our boys throughout the year, and to our Clontarf Academy parents and caregivers — thank you for your trust, support, and partnership.
The Celebration Evening is always a joyous occasion, and I very much look forward to sharing it with you.
Partnership with Brigidine College
We continue to enjoy a variety of meaningful project partnerships with Brigidine College, St Aidan’s College, and Stuartholme School. In an all-boys environment, these relationships are especially valuable, providing opportunities for engagement and collaboration with the young women of these outstanding schools. Last week, our Year 9 and 10 students participated in two enriching experiences: a Retreat Day with Year 9 students at Brigidine College, and the annual St Vincent de Formal, where we welcomed Year 10 students from Brigidine to our campus. Both programs are innovative, effective, and deeply rewarding. It’s a joy to witness the young people from our communities embracing the challenges of these events and growing through shared experiences.
A heartfelt thank you to our Faith and Mission Team and all staff who supported and guided the boys throughout these wonderful programs.
God Bless,
Chris Ryan
