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My News February

Starting a new school year

boy and girl wearing a school uniform walking

When children start a new school year, they may feel excited but also worried. This is normal. Most children will have a positive experience and settle in quickly!

Tips

  • Make a morning routine. A routine will help your child know what is happening and remember what they need to do.
  • Have lunch boxes, bags, hats and uniforms ready ahead of time. You may like to encourage your child to help with this activity.
  • Check your child’s bag for notes or newsletters from the school. Your school may also have a website or online noticeboard to help you keep up to date with events.
  • If you notice your child is avoiding school or worried about the work, reach out to the school as soon as possible.

Reminder: register now for free mobile internet SIM cards

mobile sim card offer

Together with our longstanding partner Optus, we want to offer you the opportunity to participate in Donate Your Data™, a program that provides FREE SIM cards to help your family access the internet and stay connected.

About Donate Your Data™

The Donate Your Data™ SIM is a universal SIM. This means it works in a mobile, as well as other devices that use SIMs, such as iPads or tablets. The SIM card includes:

  • Up to 60GB of data per month*
  • Unlimited standard, national calls and text messages.

*monthly equivalent of 60GB. Data is provided in two recharges: 20GB of data every 35 days plus 40GB of donated data every 28 days. Donated data amount is not guaranteed and may change. Donate Your Data™ is also subject to Optus’ Standard Form of Agreement, Fair Go Policy and Privacy Policy. Visit Donate your Data™ for more information.

SIM card numbers are limited. To avoid missing out, click the button below and accept the offer in My Smith Family today.

Safer Internet Day - 11 February

mother and son using technology

Safer Internet Day is a global initiative to raise awareness of online safety issues and create a safer online world for everyone.

Here are three ways you can help make the internet a safer place.

  1. Have conversations with your child about online safety. Let them know they can talk to you if they see anything that worries them or is unsafe online.
  2. Learn about online risks. This helps you be aware of potential dangers and provide guidance to your child.
  3. Practice kindness online. Be respectful in social media posts and online interactions. This sets a positive example for your child and shows them the importance of being considerate online.

Want to learn more about online safety?

Explore resources and tips in our Digital Skills Hub.

Your child's 2025 Study Confirmation is Overdue

To receive a Semester 1 Scholarship payment for children in Year 11 or 12, we need to know their 2025 study plans.

Click the button below to log in to My Smith Family and confirm their plans.

Does your child need a boost in reading skills?

girl wearing glasses reading a book

Unlock their potential with our free student2student program!

Student2student is a fantastic opportunity that pairs your child (the reader) with an older student (the buddy) who will help them boost their reading skills and build their confidence in a fun and engaging way.

What makes student2student special?

Your child will enjoy 20 minutes of reading time with their buddy two to three times a week for 18 weeks. Their friendly buddy is trained to support and encourage your child!

All reading sessions take place online through our secure platform, Chatty Kids. Your will need access to a device and the internet.

Spaces for student2student are limited, so don't wait! Click the button below and log in to My Smith Family and register your interest before 5 March.

Annual Impact Report

family wearing white shirts smiling

Did you know, in 2023-2024 we supported 67,165 students through our Learning for Life program?

You’re part of a community of parents dedicated to helping their children do well at school.

To read the outcomes of our work, and our focus areas for the year, read our Annual Impact Report.