Social Media – SnapChat

Everyone has the right to feel safe at Balaklava High School, and this includes when using social media. The majority of us use social media on a daily basis and we all have a responsibility to promote internet safety and conduct ourselves appropriately. However, just as in real life, it is easy to cause harm to others online. People can be harmed if you don't think before you post.

The best question to ask yourself is: ‘Would I say or do this to the person’s face?’ If the answer is ‘no’, then it’s probably not okay online either. Posts that are rude, offensive, gossip or rumour-spreading, racist, sexist, homophobic, belittling, bullying or harassing, threatening or unwanted by the recipient are not okay. It’s also not okay to share, ‘like’ or tag other people in posts like these.

‘Liking’ a page just to see what happens there might seem harmless, but your online actions may give bullies a voice, and can also give friends and prospective employers the impression that you endorse the content.

If social media behaviour is causing you to feel uncomfortable, unsafe, threatened, harassed, bullied, or concerned about yourself or someone else, then help is available. Please speak to a teacher, report it via Stymie or let Miss Walker, Ms Brookes or Mrs Pudney know.

Term 1 PRIDE Awards

Our first term of High School is nearly complete. It has been a pleasure to get to know our new Year 7 and Year 8 students and I’m also proud of our Year 9 students, who have been, and will continue to be, great role models at our school. I have enjoyed participating in our Year Level assemblies online this term, but hopefully we will all be able to meet in person soon. Year Level assemblies allow students to share their learning and provide an opportunity to celebrate students who have achieved their Bronze and Silver PRIDE Certificates.

Our school values, make up the acronym PRIDE but it’s also important to remember what that stands for- P = Positive Relationships, R = Respect, I = Integrity, D = Dedication, E = Excellence. Students displaying these values will continue to be recognised and awarded through our school PRIDE point system. Congratulations to the following students.