Every now and then, a new television show or movie explodes into the public consciousness. In reality, what often occurs is that it explodes into our students' and children's consciousness, leaving adults wondering what all the fuss is about. 

Recently, this happened with a Netflix release called Adolescence a four-part series that follows a 13-year-old boy named Jamie, who, in the first moments of the first episode, we discover has committed a terrible act. The show then explores the 'why' behind this event.

The show is receiving incredible reviews for its script, acting, and cinematography. However, it deals with highly mature themes, including radicalization,misogyny, and incel culture. While these are important to engage with, they require a level of discernment and consideration. This is why the show has an MA15 rating.

When these kinds of viral shows, 13 Reasons Why and Squid Games being more recent examples, enter our culture, there is often pressure on younger teens to watch them and join in the hype. I encourage you, as parents, to be aware of these shows and make considered decisions about their value for your children.

Some helpful resources for parents in discerning and selecting shows for your family include Common Sense Media or Plugged In. These sites provide clear reviews of various forms of content to help families make informed and wise choices.

Regarding Adolescence, my encouragement is to take the rating seriously and discuss with your children why you are making this decision for them. If you choose to engage with the show alongside your older teen, I encourage you to watch it together so you can serve as a buffer and debrief any issues that arise. As parents, we play a vital role in helping our children understand what is normal and good, and what is abnormal and harmful.

I encourage all of us to be thoughtful, discerning, and wise in the media we engage with.

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Principal

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For more information on the Partners in Education event, please visit our website. gpcc.nsw.edu.au/partners