Term 2 has raced by and what a busy and successful term it has been. It has been wonderful to see so many Ionians engaged in the vast array of opportunities that the College provides.

I had the pleasure of meeting with our Year 10 students as a cohort this week and we were able to look at an analysis of the positive impact they have had during the first semester. Whilst this is a snapshot of one year level, I am certain that these actions would be evident throughout all our year levels.

Here is a summary of the categories and types of behaviour that was observed by teachers of Year 10 students throughout the semester:

1. Leadership:Frequently demonstrated through volunteering, setting positive examples, and taking initiative in various activities such as school events, mass attendance, and community service.
2. Love of Learning: Engaged actively in class, complete assignments diligently, and seek feedback to improve their understanding and performance.
3. Kindness: Helping peers, donating to charitable causes, and supporting teachers and students in need.
4. Perseverance: Overcoming challenges, complete tasks independently, and maintain focus despite difficulties.
5. Teamwork: Working effectively with peers, contributing to shared goals and fostering a sense of unity.

There are always opportunities for us to grow, and improve, however it is also nice to reflect on the positive impact that our students have on the Iona community and beyond. Well done, Year 10.

It is also timely to deliver some gentle reminders to students and parents about the College’s expectations for the beginning of Term 3.

Haircuts

Students and parents are asked to ensure they return to the College with an acceptable haircut for Day 1 of Term 3. Through experience, students and families find it very difficult, and expensive, to restore coloured hair to a normal tone. Likewise, short hair, which is typical for on-trend mullet styles, layered cuts, or skin fades, can only be fixed through natural growth. Students who return to school for Term 3 with a haircut outside of school policy term may be asked to go home until the issue is rectified.

Piercings

A recent holiday trend the College has observed is for students to pierce their ears. Students and families are asked to carefully consider whether these holidays provide enough time for fresh piercings to heal. Clear spacers, or any other form of jewelry, will not be permitted at school and students will be asked to remove these items.

 Healthy Habits

Holidays can often see students break their routine and fall into unhealthy habits, especially with their technology use and sleep. These habits can be very hard to break once the school term recommences. Here are some tips for maintaining balance during the break:

1. Set a Technology Curfew: Establish a specific time each evening – one hour before bedtime – to turn off all electronic devices. This helps signal to your brain that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
2. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep by keeping it dark, quiet, and cool. Avoid using electronic devices in bed, as the blue light emitted can interfere with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
3. Use Technology Wisely: Utilize apps and tools that promote relaxation and mindfulness, such as meditation apps or white noise generators to transition into a restful state.
4. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency reinforces your body's internal clock and can improve the quality of your sleep.
5. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Engage in calming activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing gentle yoga instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV. Reducing screen time before bed can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep.

The Dangers of Vaping For Young People

Parents are encouraged to have open discussions with your sons about topics like vaping and the College is here to support you with information, and support, if required. Some information about vaping is included below which may help open these discissions.

Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 will be familiar with much of this information as it was presented to them by Mr Paul Dillon earlier in the year.

Health Risks: Vaping involves inhaling and exhaling an aerosol produced by an e-cigarette which can contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and heavy metals linked to cancer and other diseases. Repeated exposure to these substances can pose a substantial risk of lung disease and damage.

Incidents in Schools: Paul Dillon has highlighted various incidents related to vaping in schools, such as students vaping in toilets, leaving school grounds to vape, and even importing vaping pods from China to sell at a profit – showing the growing popularity and accessibility of vaping among young people.

Misconceptions: Many young people believe vaping is a safer alternative to smoking. However, Paul Dillon emphasises that just because the long-term negative effects of vaping are not yet fully proven, it does not mean there aren't any. He has written several articles addressing these misconceptions and providing factual information to help parents and educators understand the real dangers of vaping.

For more detailed information, you can visit the DARTA website or follow Paul Dillon's work on social media platforms.

I wish all students a safe and relaxing holiday period.

Mr Ben Devlin
Dean of Senior Years