Rob Cope on Between Two Beers: A Challenge for Parents

In 2024, Lindisfarne welcomed Rob Cope, founder of Our Kids Online, to speak with parents about the increasingly complex digital world our sons are navigating. It was an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking evening for everyone who attended, and we are pleased to be welcoming Rob back to the College in March 2027. The digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and the risks facing young people have only intensified.

When Rob returns next year, we will be encouraging all families to attend. His presentation is challenging, eye-opening and highly relevant for every parent. He explores not only the risks our boys face online, but also the practical tools and strategies that parents and educators can use to help keep them safe.

In a recent Between Two Beers podcast, available on Spotify and TVNZ+, Rob discusses many of the themes he covers in his school presentations. He also introduces his Wild Dad Project, an initiative that encourages fathers to get their sons off screens, outdoors and reconnecting through shared real-world experiences. The project includes a Hawke's Bay "Outpost", where local families can connect with like-minded parents.

Much of Rob's work aligns with the ideas of author Jonathan Haidt in The Anxious Generation, which explores how today's children experience increasing protection in the real world while facing very little protection in the digital one. The result is a growing challenge for the wellbeing of young people.

As we head into the holidays, my challenge to all families is simple. Reduce the time our boys spend immersed in the digital world and maximise the opportunities they have to experience the real one. Encourage them to ride their bikes to a friend's house, build a camp in the backyard, explore Bell Rock or walk the tracks at Te Mata Peak. Create opportunities for adventure, independence and genuine connection.

Most importantly, don't allow screens to dominate the holidays. Endless hours on phones, Roblox or Fortnite can quickly replace the experiences that build confidence, resilience and lasting memories.

If you have the opportunity, I strongly encourage you to listen to Rob Cope's Between Two Beers podcast over the break and make attending his parent presentation in Term 1, 2027 a priority.

Please note that Rob's presentations are intentionally direct and are designed for an adult audience. He presents his message in a very candid and uncompromising manner, and both the podcast and his parent presentation contain strong language. They are intended for parents and caregivers rather than students.

David Cournane (Assistant Rector, Pastoral Care & Wellbeing)