Illalong Newsletter - 3 A | A.B. Paterson College

Staying Connected, Staying Safe: Preparing for New Social Media Regulation

Social media is a powerful tool for connection, communication, and creativity, providing teenagers with unprecedented opportunities to engage with the world. However, alongside these benefits are significant risks, as young people navigate complex social dynamics, identity formation, and peer relationships. Recognising these challenges, the Australian Government has announced new laws aimed at strengthening protections for young social media users, specifically focusing on age restrictions and online safety.

The eSafety Commissioner highlights the importance of these changes, designed to ensure that young users engage with social media platforms safely and appropriately. They can be found here: https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions

As these new regulations come into effect, it is vital for parents and caregivers to actively partner with schools in guiding students' online behaviours. Together, we have a shared responsibility to foster healthy digital habits and clear boundaries around social media use.

Parents are encouraged to support and reinforce clear expectations regarding their children's use of technology, including maintaining reasonable limits on daily screen time, setting specific 'device-free' bedtimes, and regularly discussing appropriate online conduct. Consistent parental involvement significantly reduces negative social interactions that frequently begin online outside of school hours but can profoundly impact a student’s well-being and their experience during the school day.

Over the coming months, our pastoral team will proactively highlight specific apps and websites to better inform families about emerging trends and associated risks. These insights will empower you with the knowledge to confidently manage your child's digital world, ensuring they remain safe, respectful, and mindful online users.

Together, through a strong home-school partnership, we can navigate these digital challenges and ensure our young people develop positive, responsible, and healthy relationships with technology.

Liam Burke | Deputy Head of Secondary School

Interhouse Cross Country Carnival

Despite the rainy conditions, our Interhouse Cross Country Carnival went ahead yesterday, showcasing the incredible determination and effort of all our young athletes. The rain did little to dampen the spirits of our students, who braved the wet and muddy course with enthusiasm.

From the very first race, it was clear that our students were ready to give their all. Each participant demonstrated remarkable perseverance, pushing through the muddy conditions.

A special congratulations goes to Mackellar House, who took the win in the Junior School Cross Country Carnival. Their outstanding performance and team spirit were evident throughout the event, and they truly deserved their win. Well done, Mackellar House!

Cross Country Age Champions

Unfortunately, as conditions deteriorated, the Secondary School carnival transitioned to APS selection only, meaning minimal students travelling to and from the venue. Congratulations to all students who did their absolute best in the conditions with which they were faced.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents who embraced the elements to cheer on the students. Your support and encouragement played a crucial role in the success of the carnival.

Thank you also to the teachers who stood in the rain either as crowd control or at a mosquito-ridden checkpoint to allow the students to have the best race experience possible.

While the rainy weather may have presented a challenge, but it also highlighted the incredible determination and effort of our students. We are proud of each and every one of them.

Now we commence training for APS Cross Country in Term 2. Details about the team and holiday training will be on the Run Club Connect group before holidays.

Tennille Mitchell | Cross Country Coordinator

Sumo Robotics Scrimmage Competition

We are excited to share the highlights of our recent Years 4-9 Sumo Robotics competition, which was an incredible success! Students from several schools, including Emmanuel College, The Southport School, Hillcrest Christian College, St Andrews Lutheran College, Saint Stephen's College and A.B. Paterson College came together for a day filled with learning, collaboration, and fun.

The scrimmage competition was designed to immerse students in the world of robotics. Throughout the day, students engaged in hands-on activities, building and programming their own sumo robots using Lego Prime Spike kits. This practical experience not only enhanced their understanding of robotics and coding but also fostered essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork and creativity.

Highlights of the Day:

Building and Programming: Students worked in teams to construct their Sumo robots using specialised Lego Prime Spike kits. They then programmed their robots to compete in sumo wrestling matches, testing and refining their designs to improve performance.
Scrimmage Competition: The day culminated in an exciting scrimmage competition where robots faced off in friendly sumo wrestling matches. We are proud to announce that our A.B. Paterson College girls' team secured an impressive 4th place!
Collaboration and Friendship: Beyond the technical skills, the excursion provided a wonderful opportunity for students to collaborate, meet new friends and learn from each other. It was fantastic to see students from different schools working together and sharing their knowledge.

The Sumo Robotics scrimmage was not just about competition; it was a day filled with joy, laughter and learning. Students left with a deeper appreciation for robotics and coding, and many new friendships were formed. We are incredibly proud of all the participants and their achievements.

Thank you to all the teachers, organisers and students who made this day possible. We look forward to more such exciting Sumo Robotics events in the future!

Samantha Middleton | Digital Literacy Coordinator Prep-Year 6 and Sumo Robotics Teacher

Dennis House Sleepout and Lawson House Talent Show -16 May

Once again in 2025 the four Houses will collaborate to run events to bring students together in fun activities and raise money for our charity partners. The funds raised from these events will be combined and then distributed between three charities: Orange Sky Laundry, The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, and Young Care.

On Friday 16 May, Dennis House and Lawson House will combine to host the Dennis House Sleepout and Lawson House Talent Show. The evening will consist of three components that students can elect to attend. Event fees on Parent Lounge will cover the cost of the event and raise funds for our charity partners.

This event is an opportunity for students to give back to the community and to raise awareness of the importance of helping those members of our community less fortunate than ourselves, including those people living in care, below the poverty line or on the streets of the Gold Coast.

This year, to simplify the sign-up and payment process we are running a flat fee sign-up through Parent Lounge.

Year 7-12: $30

Year 4-6 - $20 – For the Games in the MPC and Pizza Dinner option, this will commence at 4.00pm and all Year 4-6 students will need to be collected from the MPC at 7.00pm

For Year 7-12, students will have the option of being collected at:

7.00pm after the games and pizza from the MPC
10.00pm at the conclusion of the Lawson Talent show in the LPAC
8.00am on Saturday 17 May at the conclusion of the Dennis Sleepout in the Winton Centre

Year 7-12 students who sign up will be asked to nominate the time they are being collected via a form that is being sent out after Friday 2 May.

To give permission for your child to attend, please click here to go to Parent Lounge and accept the terms and conditions for this excursion no later than Friday 2 May.

The event format is available to view in A.B. Connect.

For Years 7-12 Students

In the interest of safety, please be advised:

Students will not be permitted to leave the College grounds inside of these hours.
Parents/Guardians are required to be available to collect their child/ren throughout the night should there be a medical concern or behavioural issue.
All students must be picked up by a parent/guardian on Saturday morning at 8:00am; they will not be allowed to walk home or to take public transport.
Year 12 students who have their own car may drive themselves and any siblings home. Student drivers will not be permitted to take a group of students home.
There will be College staff and additional security overnight at the event.
Male and female students will be in different areas for sleeping with access to different amenities.

For Years 4-6 Students:

In the interest of safety, please be advised:

Students will not be permitted to leave the College grounds inside of these hours.
Parents/Guardians are required to be available to collect their child/ren throughout the night should there be a medical concern or behavioural issue.
All students must be picked up by a parent/guardian by 7.00pm at the MPC.

Please contact the relevant supervising teacher with any inquiries regarding this event: