As we approach the Christmas season, many young people may be adding the latest technology to their wish lists, including smart glasses and other wearable devices that incorporate cameras, microphones and internet connectivity.

Catherine McAuley College Bendigo wishes to advise parents and students that smart glasses and camera-enabled or recording-enabled wearable devices are not permitted to be worn by students at school or during College activities.

This includes any eyewear or wearable technology capable of recording video, taking photographs, recording audio, livestreaming, transmitting information, sending messages, or accessing online content.

The College has taken this position to safeguard the privacy, safety and wellbeing of all students, staff and visitors, and to maintain a learning environment free from unnecessary distractions and privacy concerns. While these devices may be marketed as innovative wearable technology, they also introduce significant challenges for schools, particularly where recording can occur without the knowledge or consent of others.

To ensure our policies remain responsive to rapidly evolving technology, the College has updated the definitions within its Student Use of Personal Digital Devices Policy and Procedures. Smart glasses and similar wearable technologies are now explicitly captured within the definition of a Personal Digital Device.

A Personal Digital Device (PDD) includes any privately owned electronic device capable of storing, accessing, creating, recording, transmitting or receiving information. This includes mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart watches, smart glasses, wearable recording devices, earbuds, headphones, gaming devices, and any other internet-enabled, communication-enabled or recording-enabled technology.

As Christmas approaches, many families may be considering wearable technology as a gift for their child. While these devices often appear similar to ordinary glasses, they can include sophisticated features such as cameras, microphones, internet connectivity and artificial intelligence functions. We appreciate that parents and carers may not always be aware of the full capabilities, benefits and risks associated with these emerging technologies. To help families make informed decisions, we have provided a selection of resources that explore the privacy, safety and wellbeing considerations linked to wearable recording devices.

Regardless of whether these devices are privately owned or received as gifts, smart glasses and other wearable recording devices are not permitted to be worn by students at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo.

Helpful Resources for Parents and Carers

Before purchasing wearable technology for your child, you may wish to review the following resources:

• eSafety Commissioner – Information about online safety, privacy, cyberbullying and emerging technologies.
• Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) – Privacy guidance and information about collecting and sharing images and personal information.
• Raising Children Network – Practical advice for parents on digital technologies and online safety.
• Common Sense Media – Reviews and information about technology, apps and devices used by young people.

As technology continues to evolve, the College remains committed to working in partnership with families to support safe, respectful and responsible use of technology both at school and in the broader community.