Hagit Bar-On, Head of Primary Jewish Studies

Welcome to 2024! We hope the year has started smoothly for you and your children.

We’re excited to share some news about the ongoing enhancements to our Hebrew language curriculum at Emanuel School.

This year, once again, we are integrating the iTaLAM program into our Hebrew studies. iTaLAM continues to use a “blended learning” model, weaving together Hebrew literacy and Jewish Heritage curriculum. Harnessing the advantages of technology, iTaLAM remains at the forefront of adaptive and personalised learning for our students.

What sets iTaLAM apart is its dynamic multimedia environment, featuring engaging elements like games, animated stories, and songs. These interactive activities not only make the learning process more enjoyable but are also significantly more effective. We’re pleased to inform you that students can complete these activities either in the classroom or from the comfort of their homes, as has been the case in previous years.

Your children have already received their usernames and passwords, enabling them to access the iTaLAM program from home. Compatible devices include iPad Air 2 (or later), Chromebook, PC (using Chrome browser), or MAC.

For Chromebook and PC users, please visit iTaLAM. For iPad Air 2 (or later) and MAC users, iTaLAM is accessible via the Safari web browser, with the latest update. Make sure to upgrade your iOS to the most recent version.

Should you encounter any technical issues, iTaLAM’s dedicated support team is ready to assist you. Feel free to reach out to them.

iTaLAM continues to feature a Learning Management System (LMS), empowering our teachers to tailor the learning experience based on each child’s level and Hebrew language skills. The LMS also allows us to track and report your child’s progress through an intuitive and user-friendly interface.

While we understand that some parents may have reservations about screen time at home, we encourage students to use iTaLAM as a valuable learning and practice tool. It offers a unique opportunity for your children to enhance their Hebrew language skills.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me. We are here to support you and ensure a positive learning experience for your child.

Coordinator of Innovation (K-6) | Experienced Teacher, Mentor

Happy Safer Internet Day

In a world where the internet plays an integral role in almost every aspect of our lives, ensuring the safety of our children online has never been more crucial. As we marked Safer Internet Day on Tuesday 6 February 2024, we are reminded of the collective responsibility we bear in safeguarding our children’s online experiences.

At Emanuel School, we recognise the significance of online safety education and its impact on our students’ well-being. Through a collaborative effort between our school and your homes, we strive to cultivate a safe and supportive online environment for our children. 

Why Safer Internet Day Matters:

Safer Internet Day serves as a global initiative, bringing together communities, families, schools, and organisations from over 160 countries. It presents an invaluable opportunity for us to promote online safety education and advocate for the benefits of responsible internet usage.

Our Commitment to Online Safety:

• Integration of School Values: We uphold our school values of safety, respect, and responsibility in all aspects of our students’ education, including their online interactions. By instilling these values, we empower our students to make informed and responsible choices online.
• Comprehensive Education: Our curriculum incorporates dedicated lessons on online safety, seamlessly integrated into both PDHPE and ICT classes. Utilising resources from the Online Safety Commission website, we equip our students with research-based strategies to navigate the digital landscape safely.
• eSports Gaming Club: Recognising the popularity of online gaming among our students, we have established an eSports gaming club. This platform not only fosters a sense of community but also serves as an opportunity to reinforce the importance of online safety practices during gaming sessions.

The Home-School Connection:

While we are committed to fostering a safe online environment within our school, we recognise that ensuring online safety is a collaborative effort. Your involvement as parents is paramount in reinforcing the lessons learned at school and extending them into the home environment.

Here are some ways you can actively contribute to promoting online safety:

• Open Dialogue: Initiate conversations with your children about their online experiences. Encourage them to share any concerns or questions they may have, and provide guidance when needed.
• Set Boundaries: Establish clear guidelines for internet usage at home, including screen time limits and appropriate websites and applications. Monitor your child’s online activities while respecting their privacy. Some serviced to help with this include:

1. QuStodio is an American based company also operating out of Europe with a tight Privacy Policy meaning they won’t sell your data. This App can be downloaded onto 5 devices for $83/year or on a monthly subscription. It will allow you the features of filtering content on devices and apps, monitoring screen time and activity, setting time limits, location services including geofence alerts (be notified if your child leaves school or home) and tracking calls and sms to keep informed on scam alerts. 
2. Google Families is a free Google Application that will link your Google Account to your child’s google account. With this app you will be able to set screen limits, manage and secure your child’s device including locking content and see where they are located. Whilst this has limited capability, it is a great start to track how your child is using their device. 
3. Family Safe Accredited Services – There are many services that allow you to set up family filters on your home internet system. This website offers many of those products which you can explore. Each has been accredited and provides families with more control over their home internet settings and applications. 

• Lead by Example: Model responsible online behaviour for your children by practising good digital habits yourself. Show them how to navigate the internet safely and responsibly.

Access the esafety commissioner’s website. Here you can download a plethora of great fact sheets, sign up for a parent webinar or learn how to have some hard conversations with your child about their use of technology. They also have great information on age restrictions for different apps and games that students use include a really wonderful search tool for all Apps so you can find out more. 

As we reflect on Safer Internet Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a safer online environment for our children. Together, as a school community and as parents, we can empower our children to harness the vast potential of the internet while navigating it with confidence and caution.

Thank you for your continued support in promoting online safety at Emanuel School.