Photographs and videos are an important way for families to remember concerts, assemblies, sporting events and other special occasions in their children’s lives. However, rapid developments in artificial intelligence have significantly changed the risks associated with capturing and sharing images of children.

National Child Protection Week, held from 6–12 September 2026, carried the theme Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action. It reminded schools, families and the wider community that conversations about child safety must be followed by practical steps that help children feel heard, valued, safe and supported. The College’s approach to student photography is one such practical step.

An ordinary photograph can now be copied, manipulated or used to create highly realistic fake images and videos, sometimes referred to as “deepfakes”. This may include harmful, degrading or sexualised content. Images can also be shared online without the knowledge or consent of the student or their family. Once an image has been uploaded or distributed, it can be extremely difficult to control where it goes, who accesses it or how it is altered.

In response to these emerging risks, parents, carers and visitors will no longer be permitted to take photographs or video recordings at College events. This expectation applies even when a parent intends to photograph only their own child, as other students are frequently captured in the background.

Where appropriate, the College will arrange for an authorised person to photograph an event. These photographs will be reviewed and, where suitable, shared with families through official College channels and in accordance with the relevant permissions.

We understand that this represents a considerable change. Taking photographs at school events has been a normal and valued practice for many years. Signage and announcements will be used to remind families of the new expectation, and we ask for the cooperation of our community as it is introduced.

The College is also reviewing its own practices for taking, storing and publishing student photographs. This includes considering why an image is needed, who will be able to view it, how easily students can be identified and whether a secure platform is more appropriate than a public website or social media page.

This decision is not based on mistrust of our families. It is a proactive child-safety measure designed to provide consistent protection for every student as technology and the associated risks continue to develop. By working together and turning child-safety conversations into meaningful action, we can better protect the privacy, dignity and safety of every student.

“Love always protects.” 1 Corinthians 13:7

Yours in His service

David Holloway

Deputy Principal