Parent Masterclass: Partnering for Wellbeing in a Digital Age

At Pulteney, we know that the wellbeing of our young people is strengthened when school and home work together. We want every student to grow in confidence, to face challenges with optimism, and to develop the integrity and strength of character that defines a Navy Blue.

In today’s world, a significant part of young people’s social, emotional and relational lives unfolds online. The digital environment brings extraordinary opportunity for learning and connection, but it also presents complexities that previous generations of parents did not have to navigate. Social media, group chats, image sharing, gaming platforms and on-demand content are shaping how children see themselves, relate to others and engage in the classroom.

Digital safety and wellbeing are therefore not peripheral issues. They are central to a child’s sense of security, belonging and resilience.

At Pulteney, we are committed to supporting students to engage with technology in ways that are safe, balanced and aligned with our values. Just as importantly, we are committed to partnering with parents in this work. When school and home share a common language and understanding, young people are better equipped to make wise choices and to seek support when they need it.

With this in mind, we warmly invite parents and carers of children from ELC, Reception to Year 12 to attend our upcoming Parent Masterclass: Partnering for Wellbeing in a Digital Age

Date:    Wednesday 25 March
Time:    6.00pm – 8.00pm
Venue: Graham Lange Centre

The evening will begin with a welcome by Mr Greg Atterton at 6.00pm, followed by two workshop sessions. The first workshop session will commence at 6.15pm, with a second repeated session at 7.00pm, allowing parents to attend two of the three sessions offered.

Each session will run for approximately 30 minutes, followed by 5–10 minutes of question time.

To ensure the sessions remain interactive and meaningful, numbers will be capped at 40 participants per session.

Please register via Humanitix here:

https://events.humanitix.com/pulteney-parent-masterclass

The sessions have been designed to provide practical guidance, clear information and reassurance in areas that many families are currently navigating:

Session 1

Navigating the New Social Media Age Restrictions

Mr Chris Clements – Head of Wellbeing Services, School Psychologist

This workshop will help parents and carers understand the new social media age restrictions and how to best support their children through this transition. Mr Clements will outline the purpose behind the legislation, explain which platforms will require users to be 16 or older, and clarify which remain accessible to younger children.

Beyond the “rules,” this session is focused on building your confidence to have constructive conversations at home and equipping you with practical strategies to help your child engage safely and positively online.

Session 2

Recognising and Responding to Image-Based Abuse

Dr Tessa Opie – Head of Student Wellbeing and Support

This workshop explores the growing prevalence and evolving nature of image-based abuse and its impact on young people across Australia. Parents and carers will gain a deeper understanding of the social, emotional and psychological harms experienced by victim-survivors.

Dr Opie will also provide evidence-informed strategies and trusted resources to help families respond effectively and supportively should a young person in their care be affected.

Session 3

When the Screen Comes to School: How Online Behaviour Shapes the Classroom

Mr Jason Fay – Head of Junior School

Mr Matthew King – Head of Wellbeing, R–6

This session examines how children’s online experiences directly influence learning, behaviour and relationships at school. Topics will include the impact of fast-paced digital content on attention and persistence, dopamine-driven apps and motivation, and the effects of device-related sleep disruption on emotional regulation.

Mr Fay and Mr King will also explore how online disagreements, group chats and social comparison can spill into the playground and classroom and, most importantly, offer practical, balanced strategies for families to support healthy technology habits and emotional wellbeing.

At Pulteney, we believe that informed and connected parents are key partners in fostering resilient, capable young people. We look forward to working together to support our children in navigating the complexities of today’s world.

We hope you can join us.