Al Zahra College Educational and Financial Reporting 2005 Reporting Policy As an independent non-government school in NSW, Al Zahra College is required by the Board of Studies NSW to report on the financial and educational performance of the school each year. This includes: • student performance in state-wide tests and examinations such as the Basic Skills Test; • qualification levels of teaching staff; • school policies covering educational and financial reporting, enrolment, student welfare, student discipline, and complaints and grievance resolution; • priority areas for improvement and their achievement; and • a summary of income and expenditure. They are to be fully documented and should be published in summary form in the school’s Annual Report according to NSW Board of Studies guidelines. Al Zahra College is required to maintain accurate and up to date results of each student’s performance in all state-wide and school-based examinations and assessments. These and other relevant assessment results are to be monitored by the school to ensure that students are provided with appropriately targeted and resourced educational programs. Regular assessment of student performance enables the school to determine the specific learning needs of individual students and to provide parents with an indication of their child’s performance in comparison to his or her peers. Information regarding the educational and financial performance of Al Zahra College can be obtained from: • • •
The Annual Report magazine The Annual Report PDF posted on the school website On request to the administration office
Information regarding individual student performance in school-based assessments is stored in the student’s file and can be obtained on request from administration staff.
School Performance in State-wide Tests and Examinations In 2005, all Year 3 and Year 5 students participated in the state-wide Basic Skills Test (BST) and Primary Writing Assessment (PWA). An analysis of this year’s results revealed significant improvements for Al Zahra College. In Year 3, 79% of students were placed in the top 3 skill bands in literacy compared to 74% of the state and 68% achieved in the top 3 skill bands for numeracy compared to 76% of the state. Achievement in writing was 84% in the top 3 bands compared to 75% of the state. Students performed consistently in Reading and Language and in Reading and Writing with little or not difference. Numeracy results were slightly better in Measurement and Space than with Number.
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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In Year 5, 87% of students achieved in the top 3 skill bands in literacy as compared to 78% of the state and 87% achieved in the top 3 skill bands for numeracy compared to 57% of the state. All students were placed in the top 3 skill bands for writing compared to 79% of the state. Again, results show little or no difference between Reading and Language and little or no difference between Reading and Writing. Numeracy results showed that students performed better in Space than in Measurement and Number. The achievement of this Year 5 group shows steady improvement in all students since they were tested in Year 3, with an average increase of 7% in literacy, 9% in numeracy and 7% in writing. Comparison of the 2005 results with those from previous years shows significant improvements for Al Zahra College across all areas. BST and PWA results – percentages in top 3 skill bands 2004 and 2005 Year 3 (skill bands 1-5) Year 5 (skill bands 1-6) Test Percentage of students Percentage of students achieving top 3 skill bands achieving top 3 skill bands Basic Skills Test (BST) 2004 2005 Gain 2004 2005 Gain Aspects of Literacy 57% 79% 22% 60% 87% 27% Aspects of Numeracy 39% 68% 29% 75% 87% 12% Primary Writing Assessment 82% 84% 2% 100% 100% 0%
Teacher Standards Category Teachers who have teaching qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as recognised within the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) guidelines, or Teachers who have qualifications as a graduate from a higher education institution within Australia or one recognised within the AEI-NOOSR guidelines but lack formal teacher education qualifications, or Teachers who do not have qualifications as described in (a) and (b) but have relevant successful teaching experience or appropriate knowledge relevant to the teaching context
Number of Teachers 11
0
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Note: All teachers in the third category have been employed due to their expertise in the content areas of Islamic, Quranic and Arabic studies.
School Policies Al Zahra College aims to provide its students with a high quality education of secular and Islamic studies which will equip them with virtue and the academic and social skills necessary for their effective participation as Muslims in Australia and international society. This education will take place in a safe and harmonious environment in which the concept of individual worth is given high priority. Al Zahra College is an independent, coeducational primary school that commenced in 1998 to provide alternate education options for the growing Muslim community in Australia. The College presently caters for Kindergarten to Year 6 with a view to expand to include a Long Day Care Centre and second stream primary facilities.
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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Our motto, Faith, Knowledge and Wisdom, promotes in all student endeavours excellence and quality learning, with particular attention to instilling high moral values in each student. The school curriculum addresses the standards set out by the NSW Board of Studies in all Key Learning Areas. Additionally, all students receive Arabic and Islamic Studies lessons. Focussing on the National Values Framework and the National Safe Schools Framework, Al Zahra College provides an environment in which each student is able to develop an understanding and respect for his or her own cultural background and respect for other people, cultures and beliefs. Al Zahra College seeks to ensure that all students: • are able to communicate effectively in English; • are able to apply mathematical concepts and processes; • are able to find and use information; • are able to use technology; • work independently as well as cooperatively; • approach learning in a manner that is both receptive and critical; • are able to apply problem-solving skills; • understand their society and environment; • have the skills necessary to be informed and responsible citizens; • understand the natural world and are able to apply scientific concepts and processes; • appreciate the arts and are able to express their creativity; • have the understanding and skills necessary to achieve health and wellbeing; • are able to communicate in a language other than English; • respect the rights of others; and • value themselves as learners.
Enrolment Policy Al Zahra College is a comprehensive co-educational K-6 school providing an education underpinned by religious values and operating within the policies of the NSW Board of Studies. At Al Zahra College all applications will be processed in order of receipt and consideration will be given to the applicant’s support for the ethos of the school. Once enrolled, students are expected to support the school’s ethos and comply with the school policies to maintain the enrolment. Procedures 1. Applications for enrolment as a pupil of Al Zahra College should be made by the parent or guardian on the Expression of Interest form provided by the College. 2. Al Zahra College processes all applications within the school’s enrolment policy. 3. The College will consider each applicant’s supporting statement and interview responses regarding their ability and willingness to support the school’s ethos. 4. The College will consider each applicant’s educational needs by gathering information and consulting with the parents/family and other relevant persons. 5. Through a screening interview, the College will identify any strategies which need to be put into place to accommodate the applicant before a decision regarding the enrolment is made. 6. The College will inform the applicant of the outcome. Subject to availability, offers of a place will be made according to whether there are siblings of the student already at the school and the order of application. Continuing enrolment is subject to the student’s adherence to school policies and payment of all school fees.
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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The enrolment policy is reviewed each year. Student Population The school has 176 students of whom 78 are in the infant years (K-2) and 98 are in the primary years (3-6). There are approximately 49% girls and 51% boys throughout the school. Students come from predominately Arabic speaking backgrounds and a number of students begin with limited English language experience. In addition, the school enrols a number of students with special needs.
Policies for Student Welfare The College seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment which: • minimises risk of harm and ensures students feel secure; • supports the physical, social, academic, spiritual and emotional development of students; and • provides student welfare policies and programs that develop a sense of self-worth and foster personal development. To ensure that the College’s aims for providing for a student’s welfare are implemented, the following policies were in place during 2005: Policy Child Protection Policy encompassing: • Definitions and concepts • Legislative requirements • Reporting and investigating "reportable conduct" • Investigating procedure • Documentation Care & Supervision Policy encompassing: • First Aid procedures • Administration of Medicines • Duty of Care
Changes in 2005 Nil
Access to full text • On request to school administration office • Staff Handbook • Policies page of school website
Nil
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Codes of Conduct Policy encompassing: • Behaviour management • Student award procedures • Anti-Bullying practices • Student scholarship award procedure Discipline Policy encompassing: • School rules • Student expectations • Discipline procedures
Nil
Homework Policy encompassing: • Expectations of students • Implementation procedures
Nil
Student Leadership Policy encompassing: • Guidelines • Implementation procedures
Nil
• • • • • Nil
• • • • • • • • •
On request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website On request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website On request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website On request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website On request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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Policies for Student Discipline Students are required to abide by the College’s rules and to follow the directions of teachers and other people with authority delegated by the College. Where disciplinary action is required penalties imposed vary according to the nature and severity of the breach of discipline and a student’s prior behaviour. Corporal punishment is not permitted under any circumstances. Our behaviour modification program incorporates 10 levels; 5 positive and 5 negative. All discipline matters are referred to the school’s Disciplinary Committee for resolution. This may require an individual behaviour modification program for a student or, in cases of serious breaches, suspension may be required. All members of the College community have access to the policy and procedures through: • • •
Request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website
The school’s discipline policy did not change during 2005.
Policies for Complaints and Grievances Resolution The College’s policy for dealing with complaints and grievances includes procedures for the lodgement of complaints and a grievances resolution process. The policy allows for matters to be raised by students, parents and teachers in an environment of respect and fairness. There is also an appeals process. The full text of the policy is available through: • • •
Request to school administration office Staff Handbook Policies page of school website
The school’s Complaints and Grievances Resolution Policy did not change during 2005.
Priority Areas for Improvement Achievement of Priorities for 2004 Area Priorities Teaching and Improve literacy and numeracy in all years Learning
Examine/identify creative arts potential for future program development Review Curriculum areas for improvement
Achievements • Dedicated writing sessions • Spelling Mastery sessions Years 1-6 three days per week • Teachers conducted research at other schools into literacy and numeracy improvement techniques • Summer school conducted for drama, art and creative writing • • •
Enhance computing facilities
• •
Science and Technology curriculum and resources audited by curriculum consultant Identified Science and Technology areas for improvement Science and Technology scope and sequence initiated IT coordinator employed Dedicated computer laboratory established with 26 new computers
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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Professional Development
• • •
Character and Values
Pastoral care development Target National Safe Schools Framework and develop relationships with Police
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Improve interschool relations
•
• •
• • •
Facilities and Resources
Proceed with 20-year school development plan
Achievement of Priorities for 2005 Area Priorities Teaching and Improve literacy and numeracy in all years Learning
Increase learning in Science & Technology
• •
Staff development approach structured for future planning At least one day per term allocated to professional development Staff development sessions conducted on ESL and reading Conducted “Peer Support” program of weekly pastoral care sessions Established joint venture with St George Police Department Monthly visits from police officers discussing: ¾ Police roles ¾ What is right and wrong ¾ Bullying ¾ Road rules ¾ Building positive friendships ¾ What to do if you get lost ¾ Stranger danger Collaborative partnership continued with Interschool Harmony Committee – 7 schools from 3 sectors Principals met once a term to formulate ideas, develop relationships and build on the values of respect and tolerance Teacher groups formed to support curriculum development, share resources and engage in professional dialogue around Key Learning Areas Major Project – “Friendship Tower” – a play promoting harmony, tolerance and cooperation performed at St George Bank Auditorium, Thursday 26 August, 2004, and at participating schools. Planning and development initiated for Long Day Care Centre Development application lodged
Achievements • Dedicated daily literacy, numeracy and writing sessions • Participated in Premier Reading Challenge with 20% achieving certificate • Dedicated ESL and Special Education teachers working with all years • Increased small group withdrawal • Bridges Support Reading Program conducted • Volunteers assisting with special programs • Library resources increased • Home reading resources increased • Successful Book Fair conducted • Improved results in BST and PWA • Changed from thematic approach to stand alone individual Key Learning Area • Whole school scope and sequence plan finalised for HSIE & Science, matching units • Key Reference Teacher assigned
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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Enhance computer usage
Professional Development
Health and Fitness
Improve fitness levels of students
Character & Values
Target National Values Framework areas Improve Student Behaviour Improve interschool relations
Created ‘Science Pack’ for each class with specific resources for science units of work • Increased Human Resources employing a medical practitioner to provide lectures on the human body • Increased Design and Make requirements • Increased number and frequency of Science and Technology excursions • Increased science and technology resources such as books, posters and activities • Curriculum Coordinator reviewed programs for each term to ensure appropriate outcomes were met • Introduced Computers Across the Curriculum program • Resourced dedicated computer room • Increased number of computers throughout the school Staff members received training in the following areas: • Kidspiration/Inspiration publishing software • Framed for Learning AIS • Road Safety • Science and Technology • ESL Scaffolding • Communication Disorder in the Classroom • St John’s Senior First Aid • Duty of Care AIS • Positive Political Skills AIS • Anaphylaxis • Daily dedicated fitness sessions conducted • Weekly sports sessions outsourced • After School Activities conducted three days per week • Dedicated sessions of Character and Value programs •
Updated House system of penalties and rewards
•
Collaborative partnership continued with Interschool Harmony Committee – 7 schools from 3 sectors Principals met once a term to formulate ideas, develop relationships and build on the values of respect and tolerance Teacher groups formed to support curriculum development, share resources and engage in professional dialogue around Key Learning Areas Major Project – book creation “Going Bush” involved students from 7 schools – to be published by Allen & Unwin in 2007 “Harmony Project” launched at AZC on 1 December – hosted community members from a vast range of schools and backgrounds DA approved for long day care centre Construction postponed due to land acquisition negotiations Received approval from the Federal Minister of Education for a capital grant for the purchase of land
• • • •
Facilities and Resources
Proceed with 20-year school development plan
• • •
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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Summary Financial Information Graphic 1: Recurrent/Capital Income from all sources represented by pie chart (Includes Commonwealth and state grants and subsidies and all private income, including fees and donations.) State Total Income 2005 $1,642,610
Recurrent Grants 16%
Government Capital Grants 10% Commonwealth Recurrent Grants 44%
Capital Income (Building Fund) 4%
Fees and Private Income 26%
Graphic 2: Recurrent/Capital Expenditure on all purposes represented by pie chart (including teaching and learning, administration and financing (i.e. borrowing costs, depreciation, etc.) Capital Expenditure 23% Salaries, Allowances and Related Expenditure 53%
Non Salary Expenses 23%
Total Expenditure 2005 $1,959,091
Al Zahra College Ltd. y 3-5 Wollongong Rd Arncliffe NSW 2205 y Ph. 02 9599 0161 y Fax. 02 9599 0162 y info@azc.nsw.edu.au y www.azc.nsw.edu.au
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