As ASCA heads into our 47th year, we open the doors to a new school year, continuing to stand for something bigger than savings—we stand for connection, collaboration, and community. Our mission is to empower schools with access to reputable, bestvalue Preferred Supplier partners who understand the unique needs of education and tailor their offerings to support your success.
In 2026, we’re deepening our engagement with the school community by continuing to actively support school associations and sponsoring key conferences across the country, alongside our preferred suppliers. These events are more than gatherings—they’re opportunities to share ideas, strengthen networks, and build partnerships that make a real difference.
We’re also excited to announce the launch of our new, easier-to-use website designed with
our member schools in mind. This platform will also feature free resources for canteens to help improve profitability and ensure long-term viability— because we know healthy, sustainable canteens are vital to school life . If you are outsourcing your canteen operations, please ensure that your Caterer is affiliated with ASCA - so you can rest assured knowing not only are they engaging with reputable food and beverage suppliers, but also keeping prices competitive whilst channelling vital funds to our Charitable Foundation.
And remember, every time your school supports ASCA’s suppliers, you’re helping us give back. Together, we’re driving impact through our 10 charity partners, supporting initiatives that change vulnerable kids’ lives and strengthen communities.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to a year of innovation, collaboration, and shared purpose— because when schools thrive, communities flourish.
Christine Bucca, ASCA CEO.
ACAS's School Supplier Partners
ASCA continually reviews the suppliers we recommend to bring your school savings and to assist with buying advice
If we can assist you in your procurement needs, please email office@asca com au – visit asca com au for more information
EDUCATION RESOURCES
BODY SAFETY AUSTRALIA
Promoting childhoods free from violence where children enjoy equitable and respectful relationships.
CAMPION EDUCATION
Your education resource partner
EDUCATION PERFECT
Online teaching and learning toolkit
ESSENTIAL ASSESSMENT
Numeracy and Literacy assessment platform
OFFICEWORKS
General education resources
OFFICE SUPPLY and SERVICES
ENQUIRY TRACKER
Enrolment management system
FLAGWORLD
Marketing and promotional flags and banners
JB HI-FI EDUCATION
Technology equipment and solutions.
OFFICEWORKS
General office products
ONSITE SHREDDING COMPANY
Secure document destruction
SCHOOLZINE
eNewsletters and digital communications
MORTGAGE CHOICE*
Mortgage brokers
THE GOOD GUYS COMMERCIAL*
Electrical equipment
THE SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHER ALLIANCE
photography, video and virtual tours
PARENT PURCHASES
CADBURY FUNDRAISING
Fundraising for schools
CAMPION AUSTRALIA
Printed and digital education resources
FLEXISCHOOLS
Online parent ordering and cashless payments
OFFICEWORKS
General home & office products
THE SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHER ALLIANCE
Photography, video and virtual tours
UMS
School uniforms
UNIFORM GROUP
School uniforms
PROPERTY, FACILITIES, and SERVICES
API ACCESS & SECURITY*
Locksmiths and security
BFX FURNITURE
Innovative furniture solutions
BUNNINGS TRADE
Facilities management and equipment
CHOICE ENERGY
Energy solutions advocate
CROWN PROPERTY SERVICES
Commercial cleaning and property services
FLAGWORLD
Marketing and promotional flags and banners
GYM AND FITNESS
Gym Equipment and fit-outs
JOHN DEERE
Turf care products
MAMACHI
Energy management – advisory and technology
RACV COMMERCIAL ENERGY SOLUTIONS
Solar energy solutions
STUDENT RIDE
Safe & Smart School Transport Solutions
THE GOOD GUYS COMMERCIAL*
IT and electrical equipment
SYSTEMS and TECHNOLOGY
CLASS CREATOR
Class creation software
ENQUIRY TRACKER
Enrolment management system
ESSENTIAL ASSESSMENT
Numeracy and Literacy assessment platform.
JB HI-FI EDUCATION
Technology equipment and solutions.
LEARNING WITH TECHNOLOGIES
IT and Computer hardware
RTG
IT equipment and services
SENTRAL
School Management System
SIMON
Learning management software for schools
THE GOOD GUYS COMMERCIAL*
IT and electrical equipment
CANTEEN and CATERING
See food and beverage suppliers in ASCA’s Canteen newsletter
ASCAplus STAFF BENEFITS
All school staff members are eligible to make personal purchases from our ASCAplus suppliers. See ‘*’ for those suppliers offering discounts and special pricing to your school staff.
Cameron Bell
Dishie Dharmapriya
Garrick Dostine
Michael Faustmann
Marcus Ferraro
Josie Filiaci
Curtis Filippig
Craig Honey
Rod Jonusas
Carley Logan
Benjamin Lynch
Jenna Natalizio
Kim O’Loughlin
Bella Ross
Sarah Whitehorn
FUN engaging, tailored and inclusive programs for all children
COMMITMENT to maintain the highest quality care against the NQF within the industry
5 6 7 8 9
RETURNED profit to the school REMOVED legal risk from your school
OSHCLUB will manage the entire change of management process DAILY seamless transition to and from OSH
ALIGNMENT
BUILT FOR SCHOOLS. BACKED BY DATA. DELIVERED WITH CARE.
Every independent school knows that student transport isn’t just logistics, it’s safeguarding, reputation, parent confidence, and student experience wrapped into one. Yet the responsibility usually falls on staff who already carry demanding workloads: business managers, operations managers, admissions teams, and even receptionists suddenly managing routes, late buses, risk assessments, activity runs, and lastminute requests.
StudentRide exists to take that weight off your shoulders — with a system built for schools, not adapted from public transport.
A Strategic Partner, Not Just a Transport Provider
StudentRide doesn’t simply run buses or offer booking software. We integrate fully into your school’s logistics, safeguarding standards, and financial framework — acting as an extension of your operations team.
Schools choose StudentRide because every part of the service aligns with how schools need to operate:
• 90% reduction in transport administration burden
• Improved safeguarding confidence with live tracking, attendance logs, and alerts
• Higher parent satisfaction and increased usage due to reliability and convenience
Your team can stop juggling spreadsheets, phone calls, trip requests, and invoicing — and instead rely on a professional solution that handles everything from daily bus runs to school camps, excursions, and sports programmes.
Your School. Your Brand. Your Standards.
StudentRide operates behind your school’s identity, not ours. Families experience a polished, reliable service that reflects your values and reinforces your commitment to student safety and convenience.
Let’s Take Transport Off Your To-Do List
If managing school transport has become a distraction from running a school, we can fix that — without disruption, without upfront cost, and without locking you into a single supplier.
Discover how StudentRide can integrate into your school: https://studentride.com.au/
Built for Schools. Backed by Data. Delivered with Care.
George Younan
From assemblies to open days and carnivals, our Australian-made flags, banners and marquees create a vibrant, professional atmosphere your school community will be proud of.
Customise with house colours, school crests and event branding, and showcase your school’s values with lasting impact.
Trusted by over 8,000 schools nationwide, Flagworld helps you present your best, every time.
Email us with your ideas: enquiry@flagworld.com.au or scan to get a free quote.
Exclusive 10% saving for ASCA member schools | Use code ASCA10 on stock flags online
A LESSON IN COMFORT AND CAPABILITY.
With a powerful 23 hp (17.2 kW) V-Twin engine, high-capacity PRO side discharge mower deck for superior cut quality and a large 30.2 L fuel capacity, the John Deere Z720E ZTrak™ Zero Turn Mower gets top marks for capability. Plus all-day comfort, including adjustable suspension and foot platform, means mowing won’t feel like a chore.
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* Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See website JohnDeere.com.au/NewEquipmentWarranty for warranty for new John Deere Turf and Utility equipment.
FROM DAY ONE: HOW TO BUILD A CLASSROOM WHERE STUDENTS THRIVE
BY CLASS CREATOR
From Day One: How To Build a Classroom Where Students Thrive
The first day of Term 1 isn’t just the start of the school year - it’s the start of every student’s learning, relationships and sense of belonging. A student’s classroom influences more than just their day-to-day routine, it echoes throughout their entire school life. For every educator within the school, recognising the power of planning is essential to fostering a positive, inclusive and supportive classroom environment, where students can thrive. A classroom that creates this kind of environment will create connection and clarity from the outset, reducing the risk of anxiety and preventing behavioural issues inside and outside the home.
1. Start with a Balanced Class
Every student placement sets the course for the entire year for both students and teachers. When class lists are built manually, it’s easy for unintentional imbalances to occur where there are clusters of special needs students in one room, friendship conflicts placed together, or a class with too many students with behavioural needs. Instead of relying on spreadsheets and sticky notes, data-driven tools bring together teacher insights, student data, behavioural patterns, and social dynamics in one place. These tools ensure there’s an even spread of students, distributing a healthy mix of personalities, strengths, and those students that require extra support.
2. Collaboration with Staff
Strong, positive classrooms are built on more than just student placement, they are shaped by the collective knowledge and insight of the teaching team. When teachers contribute their observations on learning styles, behaviour patterns, and social dynamics, leadership teams can make more informed decisions that support every student. This collaborative approach ensures that the needs of both students and teachers are considered, helping to create classrooms that are balanced, inclusive, and ready for a successful start. When staff voices are valued and incorporated early, the entire class benefits from a more thoughtful, intentional learning environment.
3. Establish Clear Routines and Expectations
Clear routines and expectations are the backbone of a positive classroom. When students know what to expect and understand how the day will flow, they feel safer, more confident, and ready to engage in learning. From the first day, predictable structures such as morning procedures, transitions between activities, and end-of-day routines help students focus on learning rather than figuring out what comes next.
Equally important is setting clear behavioural and academic expectations. Discussing what respect, responsibility, and collaboration look like in the classroom gives students a shared understanding of what’s valued and how they can succeed. When expectations are taught, modelled, and reinforced consistently, students quickly internalise them, which reduces uncertainty, prevents misbehaviour, and builds a positive classroom culture. Routines also free teachers to spend more time building a rapport with students. Instead of repeatedly redirecting or clarifying procedures, teachers can focus on guiding learning and supporting individual needs. When routines and expectations are clearly established from the start, the classroom runs more smoothly and sets the foundation for a productive and engaging year.
4. Keep an Open Line of Communication
From day one, communication with families, support staff, and leadership lays the groundwork for trust and collaboration. Part of this involves being transparent about how and why
decisions, such as class placements are made. Using datadriven tools, staff share their insights and reasoning for placing students in particular groups, leadership can provide clear explanations to colleagues and families, reducing confusion and helping everyone understand the intentions behind the classroom structure. This transparency gives consistency in expectations and ensures that students are entering a space where their needs are acknowledged, understood, and supported.
5. Plan for Ongoing Support and Reflection
A positive classroom isn’t one that stays stagnant, it grows through ongoing support and thoughtful reflection. Effective teachers continually assess how students are responding to routines, relationships, and learning activities, and make adjustments to meet evolving needs. This requires setting aside time to reflect on what is working well, what challenges have emerged, and which students may benefit from additional guidance.
These insights allow educators to apply ongoing support if needed. Ongoing support can take many forms. It might include a small-group, peer mentoring, or check-ins with students who need extra encouragement. Collaboration with colleagues is also invaluable, sharing observations, insights, and suggestions helps teachers make more informed decisions about supporting individual students and the class as a whole. When staff input is thoughtfully captured and considered, it strengthens planning and ensures students are receiving the support they need. Reflection on classroom dynamics, teaching strategies and student progress means teachers can refine their approach to help every learner thrive.
This isn’t something that happens by chance, it’s the result of careful planning, intentional relationships, and a culture that values every student from day one. By focusing on routines, strengths, collaboration, and clear communication, teachers create an environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. When the year begins with this foundation, the classroom becomes a space where curiosity, engagement, and growth can flourish and where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Tools such as Class Creator make it easier for schools to turn thoughtful planning and staff collaboration into action. By gathering teacher insights, student data, and social and behavioural considerations in one place, Class Creator helps administrators and educators to instantly create balanced, inclusive classes that are set up for success from day one. Staff can input, share observations and see how decisions are made ensuring every student is placed with purpose. Using a platform such as this supports both teachers and students, helping schools begin the year with confidence and create classrooms that foster growth, engagement, and success for every child.
classcreator.io/asca
SUPPORTING CHARITIES
As a not-for-profit organisation, ASCA donates its surplus funds to the following charities:
•
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Drive Maths & English Growth in 2026 for
Give your Maths and English students a strong start to 2026 with a free trial of Essential Assessment (EA) for Term 1!
You’ll gain access to:
y Flexible assessment resources aligned with your school’s curriculum
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y Personalised support from our friendly local team
y And much more
• Australia’s education specialist
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• Founded in 1958, and still an Australian family-owned business
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• Official Partners of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, supporting child safety
• Staffed by real people who answer the phone when you call! Contact our friendly team at schoolinfo@campion.com.au Official partner of
• The number 1 supplier of textbooks, workbooks, stationery and digital products to schools What we’re known for YOU KNOW CAMPION EDUCATION - BUT WE’VE GOT MORE TO SHARE www.campion.com.au
ENERGY-EFFICIENT REFRIGERATION: A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR AUSTRALIAN SCHOOL CANTEENS
As Australian schools work to reduce energy use and emissions, energy efficiency is becoming a key focus in canteen operations. Refrigeration is one of the biggest energy consumers in a school setting, so choosing a modern, efficient fridge can help lower running costs, cut emissions, and support your school’s commitment to a greener future.
The Benefits of Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Refrigeration in Your School Canteen
Older fridges use refrigerants such as HFCs (hydrofluorocarbon), which have a high global warming potential (GWP) and are being phased down by the Australian government through the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989 and associated regulations.
Repair costs for these systems have increased as HFC refrigerants become more expensive, further encouraging the transition to natural gases. Older refrigeration units consume more energy, meaning they cost more to run, they also require more maintenance to keep them running at an optimal standard and safety. This is not just due to their advancing age, but also because parts are becoming less accessible, and technicians are focusing their training and workforce on their newer, more energy-efficient counterparts.
Should you replace your school’s refrigerators?
You should consider replacing your fridge or freezer if:
– It uses a phased-down refrigerant
– It is more than 10 years old
– It is in poor condition, damaged and/or corroded
– It’s a domestic unit designed for residential environments
– Your needs have changed, and a smaller or larger unit would be more suitable
Bromic are happy to provide information on how much your school could save by purchasing energy-efficient refrigeration equipment. You can contact the friendly team to discuss your needs today.
How to tell if a fridge is energy efficient
Features like double glazed doors, self-closing doors, LED lighting, electronic temperature controls, low-GWP refrigerants, and automatic night blinds all contribute positively to reduced energy consumption.
If a refrigerator or freezer is ten years or older, it’s likely that it uses older-style refrigerants (high-GWP) which will reduce its energy efficiency. It’s important to note that fridges that run on these older-style refrigerants (HFCs) are still available for purchase.
Most importantly, consider your school’s needs first when choosing a commercial fridge, and always compare like-for-like products. For example, glass doors generally use more energy than solid doors, so compare units of a similar size and design, and choose the option that best suits your needs.
Check the specifications:
• GEMS Star Rating – The more stars, the more energy-efficient the unit is. You can read more about the GEMS Star Rating system here.
BY BROMIC
• Energy consumption – This tells you how much energy is consumed per hour, shown as kWh, a helpful spec to calculate your running costs.
• Refrigerant type – Phased-out refrigerants include CFCs and HCFCs while HFCs are currently being phased down due to their higher global warming potential (GWP).
5 reasons to choose energy efficient commercial refrigeration
1. Cost savings – Lower energy bills and operating costs mean more funds directed to educational resources and other school improvements.
2. Environmental sustainability – Energy-efficient fridges produce a smaller carbon footprint and have less impact on the environment.
3. Improved performance – Newer technologies in refrigeration have produced fridges that maintain a more consistent temperature. In addition to using less power, energy-efficient fridges keep your food safe, which can assist in reducing food waste.
4. Food safety and reliability – Energy-efficient fridges are designed to maintain consistent, safe temperatures, helping keep food fresh for longer and ensuring compliance with school food safety requirements.
5. Meet School Sustainability Goals – Choosing energyefficient refrigeration supports national and state sustainability initiatives and helps your school demonstrate leadership in environmental responsibility.
Bromic Refrigeration offers a range of efficient, lowimpact products that use Natural Refrigerant technology (hydrocarbons). By choosing energy-efficient equipment, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that your equipment meets Australian energy-efficiency standards such as GEMS and MEPS, while also saving your school money through lower running costs. You can find Natural Refrigerant units here.
Government sustainability incentives for Australian schools
Across Australia, governments at both state and federal levels provide funding opportunities and initiatives to help schools reduce their environmental impact and embed sustainability practices into everyday learning and operations.
Follow the links below for more information on sustainability programs, grants and initiatives available in your state:
• Federal- Sustainable Schools Program | energy.gov.au
• Funding for schools - Department of Education, Australian Government
• VIC- ResourceSmart Schools | Sustainability Victoria
• QLD- Queensland State Schools - Sustainability
• SA- Sustainable Schools | Green Adelaide
• WA- Sustainable Schools WA | Education Resources
• NT- Grants directory | NT.GOV.AU
• TAS- Schools and Education Programs | Waste Resource Recovery
What a fridge upgrade could mean for your school canteen, an example:
The school canteen has been using its drinks display fridge for eight years. Although the fridge is still working, the canteen manager wants to encourage students to make healthier drink choices by displaying more chilled options that are easy to grab with their lunch. After reviewing their needs, the school determines that a larger, two-door fridge with maximum display space and glass doors would help showcase the range more effectively. Here is a comparison based on upgrading their current drinks fridge:
Energy-efficient refrigeration units can make a meaningful difference
It’s clear that upgrading to modern, energy-efficient units delivers several valuable benefits for Australian schools, including cost savings, meeting sustainability targets, improved performance, and food safety. Is it time to consider an upgrade for your school?
Contact the Bromic team to discuss our range of commercial refrigerators and freezers and find the most appropriate energy efficient product for your needs.
Follow us on social media to keep up to date with the latest products and industry tips.
The new fridge’s energy consumption is significantly lower, largely due to its use of R290, a natural refrigerant which reduces energy costs and environmental impact. It also offers greater storage capacity, meaning the canteen can stock more drinks while using less energy. While both the old and new fridges feature doubleglazed glass, the newer model includes low-e and argon glass to further improve insulation and energy efficiency. Its self-closing doors also help reduce cold air loss and energy use.
Based on the comparison, the school could save around $486 per year, or approximately $4,860 over ten years, by upgrading to the newer model, GM1100S-NR.
