At this morning's meeting we had as our guests, the Principal of Cheltenham Secondary College, Karl Russell and Naomi Smith (Communications/business manager).
Chair this morning was Helen Nodrum.
In introducing Karl, Helen pointed out to members that the Club has developed a close connection with CSC through our support of their awards night and, of course the RYDA program.
Karl's address focused on the impact of social media on students at the school. He spoke of the challenges faced by the staff and parents in trying to limit the impact on students.
Amongst the major effects of SM are bullying and self esteem, not to mention distraction, affect on sleep and abvility to communicate.
Whilst perhaps not directly attributed to social media he told us that the levels of absenteeism are considerably higher than several years ago to the point where total time lost is having a very real impact on the education being received by students.
The school focuses on trying to educate students in the responsible use of smart devices, emphasising resilience and mindfulness and establishing good habits with their use.
The school focuses on trying to educate students in the responsible use of smart devices, emphasising resilience and mindfulness and establishing good habits with their use.
They encourage a delayed introduction of smart phones for young people.
Amongst the challenges being faced are the increased number of families where both parents are working.
Amongst the challenges being faced are the increased number of families where both parents are working.
The use of SM encourages risk taking behaviour and a culture of defiance.
He spoke of the increased difficulty of dealing with parents on these issues and the lack of responsibility being taken by the providers of SM.
It was a most enlightening address and prompted a number of questions and additional discussion.
It was a most enlightening address and prompted a number of questions and additional discussion.
