Brisbane Boys' College Annual Report 2020

Annual Report 2020

01

Introduction Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) is a non-selective independent school for boys from Prep to Year 12, with boarding available from Year 7. The College is recognised as a well-established day and boarding school with an enviable reputation for academic, cultural, service, spiritual and sporting performance.

Founded in 1902 by Mr Arthur (Barney) Rudd, the College opened with four students ready to begin their education. Since then BBC has grown into a galvanised community of students, Old Collegians, parents, staff and friends who contribute to the BBC story.

The College has a long and proud tradition of educating young men and equipping each and every boy with the skills, knowledge and understanding to realise their potential and thrive in the modern world. By providing boys with a well-rounded approach to life, BBC is framing men of confidence and character who aspire to serve their communities and lead purposeful and fulfilling lives.

Brisbane Boys’ College is a school of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (PMSA) and a founding member of the Great Public Schools’ Association of Queensland (GPS).

The College occupies a 13-hectare site, in the suburb of Toowong, four kilometres from Brisbane CBD. School sector Independent Total enrolments 1,451 Student body Boys Year levels offered Prep - Year 12 Junior School: Prep - Year 6 Middle School: Years 7 - 9 Senior School: Years 10 - 12 Boarding Years 7 - 12 Address Kensington Terrace, Toowong, Queensland, 4066, Australia Telephone +61 7 3309 3500 Email mail@bbc.qld.edu.au Website bbc.qld.edu.au This annual report is designed to inform stakeholders about College key activities in 2020. It also includes detailed financial and operational information.

Every effort has been made to ensure the 2020 BBC Annual Report contains accurate and thorough information. We apologise if an omission or error has occurred. If you discover any errors, please contact the College.

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B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

Contents 01

Introduction

2

02

2020 Highlights

4

03

From the Acting School Council Chair

6

04

School Governance

7

05

From the Headmaster

13

06

Strategic Plan

14

07

Curriculum Offerings

15

08

Co-curricular Program

18

09

Social Climate

20

10

Parent and Community Involvement

22

11

Parent and Student Satisfaction

24

12

Staffing Information

27

13

Student Outcomes

29

14

Financial Information

32

15

From the Chaplain

33

16

About the PMSA

34

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

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2020 Highlights

JANUARY As the College embarked on a new year and new decade, the Student Leadership Team – comprising a College Captain, Vice Captains and Prefects – visited the Prep Centre to present the College’s youngest Collegians with a 2020 As One themed badge. All Junior, Middle and Senior School students wear these badges as a visual reminder that the College strength is unity and brotherhood.

7 FEBRUARY More than 550 parents and staff connected at the P&F Gathering of the Clan event in College Hall to celebrate the start of the academic year, welcome new families and reunite with returning parents.

MARCH Delivered a Learning at Home program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. BBC students were successfully transitioned to the online learning model without missing a single day of scheduled tuition, ensuring continuity of learning, care and co-curricular activities.

A six-episode series of The Season aired via the BBC website and Rugbypass. It is also available via Fox Sports and Kayo Sports. Filmed throughout 2019, it followed the First XV GPS Rugby team while addressing critical human-interest content around BBC’s broad co-curricular offerings including sports and activities, the globally recognised Pipe Band and Robotics programs and national Music, Theatre and Service learning opportunities.

25 APRIL Filmed and distributed an online ANZAC Commemoration Service. Many BBC families joined a ‘Light Up The Dawn’ driveway vigil and our musicians, pipers and drummers played the Last Post and Amazing Grace from their homes.

MAY College Prefects leading the Social Action Portfolio challenged students to participate in a College Campout by sleeping in their backyards overnight to raise money for the Salvation Army. More than 160 BBC students took part, raising more than $13,000 – the largest 2020 fundraising contribution of any school in Australia.

JUNE The Australian Government Local Schools Community Fund awarded BBC Robotics a grant to transform two existing classrooms into designated Robotics Labs. The Rescue Lab renovation enabled the permanent set-up of various courses and a more organised storage system for LEGO. The Soccer Lab now has two soccer fields, a maze field, improved workstations, two 3D printers and a CNC machine.

22 JULY BBC’s Vintage Collegians held a Christmas in July lunch. Guests enjoyed traditional Christmas fare and being piped from a Church Service to the lunch venue.

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B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

27 AUGUST Held an inaugural Raise Your Boater Day to celebrate the centenary of the Old Collegian’s Association (OCA).

On this day, Old Collegians were invited to reconnect with the green, white and black spirit, reflect on their years at the College and raise their boaters to salute their BBC brothers. This day commemorates 100 years since the first OCA meeting was held.

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14-18 SEPTEMBER Boys from Years 6 to 10 engaged in Be Confident Week, a BBC initiative which enhances essential human skills like creative problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and teamwork.

OCTOBER 2020 required the College to reimagine many of its regular activities. Unable to welcome physical audiences to annual events such as Sounds of Scotland, Grand Concert or the College Art Show, students created full concert recordings and launched a virtual art show to share with the wider community via bbc.qld.edu.au/community/news

The BBC Foundation As One Giving Day raised $563,815 to transform classrooms and provide bursaries for boys who would otherwise be unable to access a BBC education.

NOVEMBER The College secured three tremendous GPS sporting victories throughout the year. BBC First XV Rugby team delivered an undefeated season to secure the College’s maiden outright GPS Rugby Premiership – the first since a shared premiership in 1954. BBC First IV Tennis team crowned 2020 GPS Premiers and secured their eighth consecutive tennis premiership – the fifteenth in the history of the competition. BBC First XI Cricket team jointly won a GPS Cricket Premiership.

DECEMBER ‘Class of 2020’ Year 12 students made history by becoming the first cohort to graduate through the Senior Assessment Tertiary Entrance (SATE) system and receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) rather than an Overall Position (OP) in Queensland.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

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03

From the Acting School Council Chair The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools

Maintaining College facilities is a priority for the College, and

Association (PMSA) is the governing

Council has supported refurbishment and enhancement of the

body of Brisbane Boys’ College, Clayfield

Boarding House, classrooms, grounds and amenities throughout

College, Somerville House and Sunshine

the year. In an exciting undertaking, the College engaged a

Coast Grammar School.

leading educational architectural firm, Cox Architecture, to work

The BBC Council is a standing committee of the PMSA, which operates only by means of, and within, special powers

closely with key stakeholders in developing an impressive vision for the future development and enhancement of the Toowong campus and facilities.

delegated to it by the Association.

The Council has been delighted to see the re-emergence of

Its primary objective is to ensure the successful operation,

the BBC Foundation with the establishment of a new, highly

maintenance and development of BBC as a place that provides

experienced Board and Executive team. The Foundation plays

an outstanding teaching and learning environment for students

a vital role in funding master plan projects and nurturing

and staff, built on Christian values that are consistent with the

a culture of connection and philanthropy within the wider

beliefs and ethos of the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches.

BBC community.

There have been several changes to membership of the Council

On a personal note, along with other Councillors and the

during 2020. I was asked to assume the role of Acting Chair

Chair of the PMSA Board, I had the privilege of attending the

following Mr Mark Gray’s resignation from Council in August. We

Year 12 Valedictory dinner and prize giving ceremony, which

thank Mark for his leadership of the Council throughout his term

was a special night recognising and celebrating the Class of

as Chairman, and also acknowledge Ms Colleen Clur and Mr Con

2020. I commend the College on its agility and forward-thinking

Graves for their valued contributions during the year.

in re-imagining end-of-year milestone events to enable them

2020 has been an eventful and challenging year for all involved with Brisbane Boys’ College. The College’s transition to Learning at Home during the height of the global pandemic was commendable, as the implemented processes and procedures

to continue in a COVID Safe environment. The evening was a great success and a fitting acknowledgement of the outstanding accomplishments, determination and resilience of the Year 12 students.

resulted in minimal disruption to teaching and learning. I

MR JOHN DOWN

acknowledge the efforts of the Headmaster, his Executive team

ACTING CHAIR, BBC COUNCIL

and College staff in rising to the challenges presented by such unprecedented times to deliver continuity of learning and care for every boy.

The Council has continued to support the spiritual, educational, co-curricular and pastoral goals embodied in the 2019-2021 Strategic Direction. We seek to ensure the College’s holistic approach to boys’ education provides the best possible outcomes for its students, with opportunities for involvement across a breadth of academic, sporting, cultural, service and leadership programs.

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School Governance Brisbane Boys’ College is one of four outstanding schools

The BBC Council comprises up to nine members, including up

owned by the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association

to two PMSA Board members and up to six independent School

(PMSA) along with sibling schools Clayfield College,

Council members appointed from the College community. The

Somerville House, and Sunshine Coast Grammar School.

Headmaster also sits on the Council as a non-voting member.

The PMSA is run by a Board of up to 13 PMSA Board members

BBC Council is delegated the responsibility to govern and

and operates Brisbane Boys’ College with Brisbane Boys’

administer the performance of the College.

College Council – a sub-committee of the PMSA Board.

Together, they provide Brisbane Boys’ College with the strategy and framework that fosters excellence in teaching and learning, a caring Christian culture, and governance and policy making support.

Mr Mark Gray DUNIV, B.EC (HONS), SF (FINSIA), FAICD

Mark Gray is an accomplished company director and senior executive with extensive experience in strategic leadership, financial services, investment banking, corporate governance and organisational change across corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations.

He is a member of the PMSA Board and was appointed Chair of Brisbane Boys’ College School Council in January 2019. Being a BBC Old Collegian, Mark appreciates the benefits of a quality education in a Christian environment.

Mark has an Honorary Doctorate from Griffith University and is an Adjunct Professor of Economics at the University of Queensland. He was awarded a Prime Minister’s Centenary Medal in 2003 for services to banking and finance.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (first appointed 2015, appointed Chair January 2019, resigned August 2020) • PMSA Board Member (first appointed 2018) • Member – PMSA Audit, Finance & Risk Committee • Fellow – Australian Institute of Company Directors • Senior Fellow – Financial Services Institute of Australia • Chairman – Sugar Terminals Limited • Chairman – Queensland Section and Director, Federation Board, Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia

• Director – Data#3 • Director – Q-Pharm • Director – Queensland Cricket • Former Chief Executive of Queensland Treasury, Queensland Competition Authority, and the Queensland Independent Commission of Audit • Former Board roles at Griffith University, Queensland Treasury Corporation, Airtrain Citylink Limited, Queensland Art Gallery, Oaks Hotels and Resorts Limited, Urban Futures Brisbane and Max Frank (Australia) Pty Ltd

• Chairman – Tailored Superannuation Solutions

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Mr John Down B.EC, M.EC

John Down has extensive private and public sector experience, including significant Board experience. Former Board appointments include AUSTRADE (Deputy Chairman), Export Finance Insurance Corporation and Herron Pharmaceutical where he served on the advisory board.

In 1997, John founded Viking Industries Ltd, a multi-faceted marine industrial business that was subsequently sold as a mid-cap publicly listed company to private equity in 2008.

In 1993, he was appointed to the position of Co-ordinator General and Director-General, in the Office of Major Projects, by the then Premier of Queensland, and held this position until 1996.

In 1970, John co-founded the GRM Group of Companies, a multifaceted agribusiness with operations in more than 50 countries, which was also sold to private equity in 1992.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2012, resigned November 2020) • Non-executive Chairman – McPowerMSL • Chairman – Asia Pacific Aircraft Solutions Ltd

• Chairman – Micropower Ltd • Chairman – Nutrafruit Pty Ltd • Other Board appointments – Viking Industries Ltd, Windsor Resources NL, QCT Resources Ltd, Santos Ltd (UK and USA), and Anaconda Nickel Ltd

Dr Bridget Cullen BA (MAGNA CUM LAUDE); JD, LLB, MA, PHD, GRAD CERT (URB & REG PLAN)

Bridget Cullen is a full-time member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (cross allocated to the Migration and General Divisions) and a member of the Queensland Bar Association. She is also a nationally accredited mediator with extensive experience in alternative dispute resolution.

Bridget is a member of the PMSA Board and is familiar with the sub-committees of the PMSA, as she has served on both the PMSA Policy Committee and the PMSA Nominations and Human Resources Committee. Bridget is an Adjunct Professor at Griffith University Law School and the Convenor of the Evidence Subject.

Bridget is the mother of a Brisbane Boys’ College graduate and stepmum to a Middle School student. She has a strong knowledge of PMSA schools and extensive legal knowledge in anti-discrimination, employment and administrative law.

• Acting Chair – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2020)

• National Accredited Mediator

• Deputy Chair – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2020)

• Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner

• Deputy Chair – Clayfield College Council (appointed 2019)

• Adjunct Professor – Griffith University Law School

• PMSA Board Member (first appointed 2020) • Member – Queensland Bar Association and New York State Bar Association

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Ms Colleen Clur MA, GRAD DIP BA

Colleen Clur was appointed to BBC Council in 2019. A senior executive specialising in strategy, risk, governance and engagement, Colleen has extensive experience in the public and private sectors and is the Executive Director of Strategy, Governance and Engagement at West Moreton Health. Prior to that, Colleen ran her own consultancy business specialising in communication, strategy and engagement focused on the education and health sectors.

Colleen brings to BBC Council an ability to develop strong relationships, which has enabled her to launch successful strategies and manage risk and change management programs.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council

• Graduate – Australian Institute of Company Directors

(appointed 2019, resigned August 2020) • Executive Director of Strategy, Governance and Engagement – West Moreton Health

Mr Michael Goss LLB

Michael Goss joined BBC Council in early 2020 as an experienced lawyer operating his own practice. He has more than 35 years’ legal experience working in large and small Queensland and national firms on complex matters in banking and finance, insolvency and general commercial law.

In addition to his legal expertise, Michael has strong risk assessment and risk mitigation skills. As a BBC Old Collegian (1981), Michael will apply his skills and governance experience to work collaboratively on the Council to pursue BBC’s mission and strategic goals. He also has a keen interest in developing young professionals in various sectors through structured mentoring.

In addition to his legal career and his role on the BBC Council, Michael holds several other directorships and has board experience in financial services, aged care and supported living, waste-to-energy and professional services.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2020)

Mr Con Graves BA, BA HONS (MAJ PSYCH), GDIPMAN, M.ED (COUNS AND GUIDANCE), MICDA

Con Graves was appointed to BBC Council in 2019, following previous appointments to Somerville House and PMSA Councils in early 2018.

With a Master of Education and having spent almost 20 years working as an administrator in post school education, Con is passionate about education. He has been a corporate services and technology executive leader with the Department of Employment, Training and Industrial Relations, and the Director of Information Services at Griffith University. Also a retired psychologist, Con applies his extensive experience in strategic leadership, change management and innovation to the PMSA Council.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2019, resigned March 2020) • Member – Somerville House School Council (2018–2019)

• PMSA Board Member (November 2017–September 2019) • Director – Skin O2 • Deputy Chair – Wesley Mission Queensland

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Mr Vaughan Henry DIP FIN PLAN

Vaughan Henry has more than 35 years’ experience in financial services, appointed to various senior advisory and distribution positions within local and international institutions including HSBC, Queensland Treasury, Goldman Sachs, JBWere and Certitude Global.

After many years in his previous roles, Vaughan established Vario Capital with a vision to provide advisors, high net worth investors and family offices in Australia and overseas with access to innovative ideas and assets in private markets that are not typically available.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2016, current term until 2023)

• Director – Kensington Terrace Limited • Founder – Vario Capital

Mr Paul Martin MAICD, MACS, MAPM

Paul Martin is a highly experienced business and technology professional with more than 30 years’ experience across many industries. He specialises in successfully delivering strategic and transformational change. As a natural leader, Paul thrives on the challenges and pressures of complex environments. He brings to the BBC Council a wealth of project management, digital transformation, strategic thinking, stakeholder relationship management, budget management, third party vendor management, procurement and risk management skills.

In addition to business and technology skills, Paul is an accomplished company director, a passionate supporter of BBC and an advocate for creating the best environment for students to thrive and feel safe. As a BBC parent and President/Member of the P&F Association since 2015, he has a strong desire to give back to his community.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2020, current term until 2023) • President – Brisbane Boys’ College P&F Association

• Member – Australian Computer Society • Company Director and Principal Consultant – pmsolutions360 Pty Ltd

• Member – Australian Institute of Company Directors

Dr Marion Tower BN (HONS), MN, PHD, TEACHING FELLOW

Marion Tower has many years of teaching, learning and leadership experience in the higher education sector. She has broad experience in academic leadership roles and in leading curriculum design, implementation and review.

Her research interests include the student experience of university, assessment of learning, supporting casual academic staff, education and clinical decision making. Marion also supervises several PhD students across a range of interests and research methodologies.

Marion is the Deputy Chair and a board director for Metro South Hospital and Health Services, and Chair of Metro South Hospital and Health Services Safety & Quality Committee. She has completed a Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) in Sydney, a Master of Nursing through QUT and a PhD at Griffith University.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2017, resigned November 2020) • Deputy Chair – Metro South Hospital and Health Services

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• Chair – Metro South Hospital and Health Services Safety & Quality Committee

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

Mr Hamish Turner OAM

Hamish Turner is an experienced and visionary business professional with more than 30 years in retail, tourism, brand marketing and agriculture. He is highly skilled in developing entrepreneurial strategy and operational delivery.

Hamish has worked as a public and private company CEO and in Chairman and multiple company director roles over many years. He has been actively involved in the Australian tourism industry for more than 25 years and worked as a key advisor in the delivery of venues and operations for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

As a BBC Old Collegian, Hamish has a strong desire to give back to the College that gave him a solid start in his professional life. He has a strong knowledge of the private education sector in Brisbane and Sydney.

• Community Member – Brisbane Boys’ College Council (appointed 2020, current term until 2023) • Managing Director – Birrung Pty Ltd – TNR Advisory • Chairman – Wyaga Investments Pty Ltd • Director – BrandUp Ltd • Director – MJ Bale • Director – QUT Creative Enterprise Australia Pty Ltd

• Director – Australian Diamond Consortium Pty Ltd • Previous director – L Capital Asia – LVMH • Former CEO and Managing Director – RM Williams Holdings Pty Ltd • Former member – Olympic Coordination Authority Boards, Sydney Olympic Games • Order of Australia (2015) for services to tourism, business, agriculture and charitable organisations

Mr Paul Brown BA MA (MERIT), CERT HRM, MACEL, MAHRI

Paul Brown was officially commissioned as the ninth Headmaster of Brisbane Boys’ College in February 2018, and has more than 20 years’ experience leading Independent Schools including Methodist Ladies’ College (Sydney), Knox Grammar School (Sydney) and St Ignatius’ College (Sydney).

An educator of high calibre and demonstrated achievement, Paul has graduate and post-graduate qualifications from the University of Sydney and the Macquarie Graduate School of Management, and also completed a school leadership program at Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Paul brings to BBC outstanding achievements in the academic arena and the business world. His strong commitment to education, academic excellence and Christian leadership stands him in good stead to shape a future for BBC where every student is supported to reach their potential and is prepared to take their place in the world as a confident, competent and compassionate young man.

• Headmaster − Brisbane Boys’ College

Mr Chris Duffy B.BUS CPA

A CPA qualified accountant for over 30 years, Chris Duffy was appointed Business Manager of Brisbane Boys’ College in 2008 and is now Head of Business Operations.

• Head of Business Operations − Brisbane Boys’ College

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Brisbane Boys’ College Council Attendance Councillor

Position

Mark Gray

Chair (resigned August 2020)

12 18 22 13 17 15 19 16 14 11 16 Total Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec eligible

Total Meeting attended apologies

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

-

-

-

-

6

6

0

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

10

10

0

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

x

x

x

x

x

5

5

0

Community Member (resigned August 2020)

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

-

-

-

-

6

6

0

Michael Goss Community Member

-

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

9

9

0

Community Member (resigned March 2020)

-

-

x

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2

1

1

Community Member

-

x

x

x

x

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

11

10

1

Community Member

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

x

1

1

0

-

x

x

-

x

x

x

x

-

x

x

-

10

8

2

Hamish Turner Community Member

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

x

x

2

2

0

Paul Brown

Headmaster

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

11

10

1

Chris Duffy

Head of Business Operations

-

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

-

-

x

x

11

9

2

PMSA Board

John Down

Acting Chair (resigned November 2020) Deputy Chair (3 August 2021 to 13 November 2020)

Bridget Cullen Acting Chair (13 November 2020 to 2 February 2021) PMSA Board

Colleen Clur

Con Graves Vaughan Henry Paul Martin

Community Member

Marion Tower (resigned November 2020)

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From the Headmaster 2020 will be a year that lives in the collective conscience forever.

pool, and Junior School classrooms. This year’s

Amidst the Coronavirus maelstrom, teaching and learning

As One Giving Day raised a remarkable amount of money to

continued as always but often in new and creative ways.

support classroom upgrades to benefit every boy and provide

Regardless of the medium that instruction was delivered through,

needs-based bursaries for boys who would otherwise not have

teachers and students did not lose a single day of tuition. I would

the financial means to benefit from a BBC education. Cox

like to reiterate my appreciation and gratitude to our staff for

Architects was engaged to revisit and reimagine the College’s

their commitment, creativity and flexibility in addressing sudden

Master Plan so we can continue enhancing College facilities over

COVID-19 inspired change, to our students for dealing with

coming years to meet student and staff needs.

changed circumstances in a phlegmatic and practical way, and to our families for their trust and support.

Staff professional development focused on developing theoretical and practical understanding of positive education, familiarising

Our ‘Class of 2020’ Year 12 cohort responded well to the new

teachers with the College’s newly developed pedagogical

senior assessment system, known as the new Queensland

framework, and increasing competency across IT platforms.

Certificate of Education (QCE) system, and the new tertiary entrance system, which commenced in 2019. Academic departments worked to ensure endorsement and confirmation decisions were approved by the Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority (QCAA) and students were well prepared for the new system. With successful implementation of the new senior assessment system now complete, we will continue to monitor and refine our processes and focus on our work within the Middle School to ensure optimal preparedness for the senior school experience.

A number of capital and maintenance projects were undertaken during the year to upgrade College facilities. Some of the upgrades included refurbishment of Thomson Dormitory in

At BBC, we believe an education should allow students to develop convictions, understand ethics and ask challenging questions. Society benefits from people who are robust and compassionate and not afraid of life or others. Our society also benefits from people who develop virtues within themselves.

An education helps students work out what they want to do and who they want to be. If we continue to focus on this fundamental aspect of education, we can help each boy graduate from the College with confidence, ready to face the challenges of the world.

PAUL BROWN HEADMASTER

Rudd House, opening new senior classrooms in the Main Building and upgrading the Independent Learning Centre and Birtles Wing, the recreation area and landscaping near the swimming

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Strategic Plan Our guiding principles

Sit Sine Labe Decus ~ Let Honour Stainless Be

MOTTO

MISSION

Within the context of a caring Christian community, each student will be nurtured and educated to develop his God-given talents to the best of his ability through a balanced involvement in the academic, spiritual, service, sporting and cultural life of the College

VISION

A New School of Thought

PURPOSE

To produce men who have the confidence and capability to change the world

PRIORITIES

AIMS

STUDENT LEARNING

STAFF

WELLBEING

LEADERSHIP

Provide a world-class educational environment for learners of all ages

Evidence based teaching and learning framework

Advance growth and professional development of staff

Lead, promote and foster the development of wellbeing

Lead with integrity, compassion and purpose

LEARN MORE For further information, Brisbane Boys’ College 2019–2021 Strategic Direction is available on the website bbc.qld.edu.au

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Curriculum Offerings The BBC approach to education integrates best practice teaching and learning with the science of wellbeing. This student-centred approach to teaching and learning is based on key developmental stages, taking into account student variations in learning style, intelligence, interests and relationships from Prep to Year 12.

Middle School Curriculum (Years 7 to 9) The BBC Middle School caters for the unique learning needs of students in Years 7 to 9, as they progress from Junior to Senior School learning environments. For most, this means moving away from dependence on a single, classroom teacher to a more independent environment characterised by a variety of

While not an academically selective school, BBC is an academic

teachers and classroom settings. Exposure to specific study skills

institution that strives for excellence and its academic results

programs and service and leadership opportunities help Middle

consistently rank among the best in the State.

School students transition to Senior School well prepared for the

Junior School Curriculum (Prep to Year 6)

challenges of their senior years.

The Junior School curriculum caters for the unique learning styles

Years 7 and 8

of young boys, combining structured and play-based learning

There are two elements to the Years 7 and 8 curriculum:

experiences. Traditional foundation skills such as literacy and numeracy are a focus. Students are extended in these areas through activities such as internal and external competitions and exposure to experiential learning, which builds resilience, problem solving, independence, social aptitude and mindfulness.

• Core Studies – Christian Education, English, Mathematics, Humanities, Science, Health and Physical Education, Visual Art, Music, Drama / Media, Digital Technology and Design Technology • Language Other Than English (LOTE) elective – Students may choose to study Chinese, French or Japanese.

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Year 9 There are three elements to the Year 9 curriculum: • Core Studies – Christian Education, English, Humanities, Science, Health and Physical Education • Core Elective Mathematics – students must study one Mathematics subject from a choice of Mathematics Methods, General Mathematics or Essential Mathematics • Electives – students must select one subject from each of the following learning areas

- The Arts (Music, Drama/Media, Art)

- LOTE (Chinese, French, Japanese)

- Technology (Digital Technology, Design Technology, iFutures).

LEARN MORE Curriculum Overviews for Junior School, Middle School and Senior School are available on the BBC website: Junior School bbc.qld.edu.au/learning/our-learning-environments/ junior-school/

Middle School bbc.qld.edu.au/learning/our-learning-environments/ middle-school/

Senior School bbc.qld.edu.au/learning/our-learning-environments/ senior-school/

Senior School Curriculum (Years 10 to 12)

Outdoor Education Program

Senior School provides a setting for adolescent boys to develop

The Outdoor Education Program engages students in a world

into independent, resilient, problem-solving young men and mentors for younger learners. Building on their journey through Middle School, the Senior School represents a time of transition

of active outdoor learning experiences and supports them to develop a spirit of camaraderie with their peers. Embedded into the curriculum from Year 4, the program is a cornerstone of the

and leadership as students consider their future.

College’s holistic education offerings.

Year 10

Based on the six core values of self-discipline, leadership,

There are three elements to the Year 10 curriculum:

mindedness, the program focuses on teaching and creating

• Core Studies – Christian Education, English, and Health and Physical Education • Core Elective Mathematics – students must study one Mathematics subject from a choice of Mathematics Methods, General Mathematics and Essential Mathematics • Electives – students must select five electives (one must be Science, one must be Humanities).

Years 11 and 12 The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) develops senior subject syllabuses – General, Applied, and

integrity, resilience, positive relationships and community authentic connections and independence, gaining self-confidence and redefining personal possibilities.

Be Confident Week Be Confident Week involves students from Years 6 to 10 engaging in programs that enhance essential human skills, such as creative problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and teamwork. In 2020: • Year 6 students presented ‘Passion Projects’ they worked on with a mentor • Year 7 students participated in theatre workshops with Shake

Senior External Examinations. Results in General and Applied

& Stir Theatre Company, immersing themselves in the world of

subjects contribute to the award of a Queensland Certificate of

Shakespeare to gain greater appreciation of his timeless works

Education (QCE) and may contribute to an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) calculation, although no more than one result in an Applied subject can be used in the calculation of a student’s ATAR. Extension subjects are extensions of the related General subjects and are studied either concurrently with, or after, Units 3 and 4 of the General course. It is generally expected that

• Year 8 boys demonstrated their growing independence by embarking on an Amazing Adventure across the city, learning about local history and geography as they created video presentations about Brisbane • Year 9 boys participated in an Innovation Inc. Program to

most students will complete these courses across Years 11 and

build enterprise ideas and take concepts from empathy and

12. All subjects build on the P-10 Australian Curriculum.

problem solving stages right through to the final pitch • Year 10 boys engaged in numerous activities aimed at developing their personal brand and learning life skills to help prepare them for future years at BBC and beyond.

16

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

Extension and Support

Curriculum Highlights

All children learn differently. This universal truth is a sentiment that

• Developed and deployed a whole-of-College pedagogical

sits at the heart of BBC’s Learning Diversity department.

framework based on the work of Marzano and Kendall and Dimensions of Learning. The framework provides an

Gifted Education Program

understanding of highly effective teaching practices and

BBC’s Gifted Education Program responds to the diverse learning needs of gifted students by implementing opportunities specifically designed to nurture their academic talents and further

defines BBC’s contemporary learning philosophy • Deployed a Learning at Home program in response to COVID-19 restrictions. The online program replicated

develop skills through excursions, extension groups and state and

College daily life by incorporating academic lessons,

national competitions. This sits alongside the engagement and

wellbeing initiatives, clubs and activities, mentor group

differentiation that classroom teachers deliver daily. Examples

sessions, assembly time, Chaplain talks, physical activities,

of out-of-class enrichment opportunities offered as part of a

music tuition and a range of other activities for students

specialised program include Opti-minds, da Vinci Decathlon, Ethics Olympiads, Future Problem Solving Program, Maths

Olympiads and ICAS Mathematics, English and Science competitions.

Learning Enrichment Highly qualified staff provide ongoing expertise and support

- 10,678 teacher-led and directed lessons were delivered from Prep to Year 12

- 94% student attendance and engagement in the Learning at Home program

• The Class of 2020 made history as the first Year 12 cohort

to boys with learning or behavioural difficulties and/or physical

to graduate through the Senior Assessment Tertiary

disabilities, in collaboration with teachers and parents. Working

Entrance (SATE) system and receive an Australian Tertiary

together with external professionals, such as speech pathologists,

Admissions Rank (ATAR) rather than an OP in Queensland

educational psychologists and advisory visiting teachers, and

(see page 30 for Year 12 Outcomes / ATAR results)

drawing on expert advice from current staff members, students are provided with strategies and resources to succeed in the classroom. Examples of learning enrichment programs include Technology for Independence, LEGO Masters and small group classes. Boys are also connected with student mentors to support positive social interactions.

Arrowsmith Program The Arrowsmith Program is a cognitive program offering students who have high intelligence but unrealised potential, a different pathway in order to try and overcome difficulties with traditional academic learning. BBC is one of only 14 schools in Australia, and one of more than 80 organisations worldwide,

• Improved literacy results by introducing a Write That Essay Program for Year 4 and Year 7 students, as well as other research projects in conjunction with Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) • An Author in Residence Writers’ Workshop was attended by 22 Year 6 students. Student stories were published in an anthology • Deployed new generation digital tools, including interactive SMART Boards in Prep to Years 3 classrooms and one-to-one devices for all students across Junior School • Junior School students received four High Distinctions and

to offer the program. At BBC, the classroom-based program

21 Distinctions in the Australian Maths Competition, and

is run by dedicated staff, trained specifically in education and

11 High Distinctions and 51 Distinctions in the ICAS Maths,

neuroplasticity. It is delivered in a conducive environment for

English and Science Competition

supporting students to develop the necessary cognitive tools to become effective, confident and self-directed learners.

English as an Additional Language Program

• Six students received the highest scores in ICAS Science and Maths competitions in Queensland and received ICAS medals

Students who speak English as an additional language are supported through general curriculum tutorials and after school support sessions focused on improving student writing and confidence when speaking. Grouping students vertically enables strong connections to be established across year levels, with the older boys leading and guiding the younger ones through peer support.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

17

08

Co-curricular Program The Co-curricular Program at Brisbane Boys’ College provides

Participation in co-curricular activities at BBC is expected, but is

students with opportunities to participate, persevere, progress

not compulsory. It is recommended that every student is involved

and perform across a number of learning environments that

in a minimum of two activities each year from the competitive,

incorporate competitive, cultural, service and academic

cultural or service areas.

enrichment activities beyond the traditional classroom. The program enhances classroom learning by extending each student’s understanding of himself, his capabilities and his perspective.

Competitive Activities

Cultural Activities

Competitive learning aims to develop a student’s individual

Cultural learning caters for a wide range of individual interests

skills and physical and mental fitness for specific sports and

and skill levels across Music and the Performing Arts.

programs. Teamwork, communication and social skills are fostered to enhance overall psychological development.

Music Choirs

Students participate in the Great Public Schools’ Association

BBC Singers

of Queensland Inc (GPS) competition for various sports and

Camarata

activities from Years 5-12.

Colla Voce

Athletic Development Program (Prep-Year 12)

Collegians Band Ensembles

Basketball

Big Band

Chess

Brass Band

Cricket

Cello Quartet

Cross Country Debating Football Gymnastics Robotics Rowing Rugby Sailing Strength and Conditioning Swimming Tennis Track and Field

Brass Quintet College Symphony Concert Band Junior Band Percussion (Junior, Intermediate, Senior) Rock Band Stage Band Symphonic Band Wind Ensemble String Ensembles Action Strings College Strings Hudson Strings Intermezzo strings Junior Strings Individual Instrumental Tuition Pipe Band Pipe Band No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3

Volleyball

Learner Classes

Water Polo

Performing Arts Expressive Arts Theatre, productions and musicals Theatre Sports

Service Activities

Co-curricular Highlights

Service activities encompass programs reflecting the diverse

• GPS Premierships in Cricket, Rugby and Tennis

interests within our vibrant student community. Volunteering

• GPS competitions returned in a combined ‘Super Term’

with local, national and international organisations helps

format, which enabled the College’s Basketball, Chess,

students grow their circle of concern, appreciate the

Cross Country, Football, Gymnastics, Rugby and Tennis

challenges others face and nurture a sense of community.

Amnesty International Coffee for Cambodia Duke of Edinburgh

teams to take centre stage from Term 3 (July - September) • Co-curricular offerings continued through the Learning at Home program

- Run for Wellness Program and GWB Run Club

- Individual skills training, exercises, video resources

- Online delivery of one-on-one tutoring and

and tutorials for in-season sports and activities

Inter-School Christian Fellowship Interact Club

ensemble classes for Music and Pipe Band students

Domestic and International Tours

Academic Enrichment Activities

Expressive Arts and Theatre rehearsals

support.

Art Club Film Crew Photography

and Readers Cup

•

- Take home art packs Full concert recordings created for Grand Concert and Sounds of Scotland

•

Online College Art Show launched

•

Transformation of two existing classrooms into

Readers Cup STEM Club

- Online meetings and activities conducted for InterSchool Christian Fellowship (ISCF), STEM Club

Academic enrichment activities engage and extend students beyond classroom learning via collaboration, feedback and

- Live and pre-recorded video workshops for

designated Robotics Labs.

•

The Season, six-episode series aired via the BBC website and Rugbypass. Also available via Fox Sports and Kayo Sports.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

19

09

Social Climate Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Horizontal Support: Year Level

The Wellbeing Framework at Brisbane Boys’ College is based on

The Year Level support structure ensures developmental themes

Positive Education, which combines the science and benefits of

are addressed appropriate to age group and allows for strong

positive psychology with best practice teaching, learning

identity among cohorts. Staff deliver purposeful and age-specific

and caring.

programs to equip students with important skills that enable them

Drawing inspiration from the best pastoral care systems and evidence-based research around the world, the framework puts

to confidently navigate their way through the school years and beyond.

the wellbeing and happiness of each student at the core of

In Years 7-12, Year Team Leaders and Assistant Year Team

decision making and is inspired by Christian example.

Leaders deliver these programs through Mentor Groups, Year

The College has created and adopted the ASPIRE acronym for its Wellbeing Framework, with each letter representing one of

Level Forums, Assemblies and related lessons, with support from staff mentors.

six aspirations (or virtues). The framework helps to guide the

Junior School Wellbeing Leaders lead the development and

delivery of positive education through a planned, sequential and

delivery of a bespoke Junior School Wellbeing Curriculum,

developmentally appropriate program focused on developing

alongside classroom teachers.

essential human skills.

Vertical Support: House System

Intrapersonal and interpersonal skills, such as critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, digital citizenship and social and emotional intelligence, are embedded in the Wellbeing Framework to ensure students have every opportunity to be future-minded and inquisitive life-long learners, caring citizens and resilient individuals.

This whole school approach is designed to develop a student’s ability to engage effectively with their character strengths in order to build and foster positive relationships, emotions, health, engagement, accomplishment and purpose – producing well-rounded, resilient individuals who are capable of thriving personally, academically and professionally.

The College’s Wellbeing Framework incorporates a dual point of contact through horizontal and vertical support structures.

The Head of House is the keeper of the BBC flame and the champion of the BBC tradition within the community. The House System focuses on celebration and community at a whole-school level and involves students participating in a variety of inter-house sports and activities.

Brothers are always assigned to the same House as older siblings and College boarders are allocated to Rudd House. Sons of Old Collegians are placed in the same Houses their fathers were, except for day boys whose fathers were boarders.

Junior School Houses Crusaders, Gladiators, Knights, Vikings Middle/Senior School Houses

Together, these roles oversee and lead the academic, intellectual,

Birtles, Campbell, Cole, Flynn, Hamilton, Knox, McKenzie, Rudd,

emotional, psycho-social, community, leadership and spiritual

Wesley, Wheller

development of every boy.

ASPIRE Wellbeing Framework Aspiration

Character Strengths

Junior School

Middle and Senior School

ALTRUISM

Fairness, Leadership and Teamwork

Year 5 Joyful Me

Year 11 Altruistic Me

SPIRITUAL

Bravery, Honesty, Perseverance and Enthusiasm

Year 6 Reflectful Me

Year 12 Spiritual Me

PHYSICAL

Forgiveness, Modesty, Common Sense and Self-control

Year 3 Mindful Me

Year 9 Physical Me

INTELLECTUAL

Creativity, Curiosity, Open-mindedness, Love of Learning and Perspective

Year 4 Gritty Me

Year 10 Intellectual Me

RELATIONAL

Kindness, Love and Social Intelligence

Prep Kind Me Year 1 Empathetic Me

Year 7 Relational Me

EMOTIONAL

Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence, Gratitude, Hope, Humour and Belief

Year 2 Grateful Me

Year 8 Emotional Me

20

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

Leadership Since 2019, the College has continued to embed a contemporary,

Formal worship opportunities are provided through Weekly

distributed, inclusive and student-led model of student leadership.

Assemblies and House and Year Level Chapel Services (Middle

This is characterised by Prefects chairing 10 portfolios;

and Senior Schools) held each term. Christian Education classes

Academic, Boarding, House, Peer Support, Performing Arts,

are compulsory for students in Prep-Year 10, with students in

Social Action, Spiritual Life, Sport, Visual Art and Wellbeing. Within

Years 11-12 involved in the Life and Belief Issues Program.

each portfolio there are opportunities for students in Years 7-12 to form representative steering groups. This student leadership model provides boys across the school with opportunities to develop skills in leading others. The portfolio model of leadership fosters meaningful participation and experiences by modelling democratic processes that enable students to contribute to areas of school life they feel connected to.

Throughout 2020, the senior leaders of Prefect Portfolios devised projects allowing students at all year levels to remain connected: • Social Action Portfolio – College Campout (for the homeless) • Academic Portfolio – Online Maths Tutoring • Wellbeing Portfolio – Isolation Buddy Program • Peer Support Portfolio – Year 12 Kahoot and Movie Night • Performing Arts Portfolio – Virtual Concert Hall

Students can also join Inter-School Christian Fellowship (ISCF) groups for age-appropriate discussion, reflection, service and friendship in a Christian context. These groups enjoy a variety of social activities and an annual Christian camp with students from other PMSA Schools.

The College Chaplain and Associate Chaplain, teachers, students and parents conduct ministry at the College.

Spiritual Life Highlights • Middle School Core Group created for Years 7-9 students • Connect Groups, led by Christian Education teachers and BBC Old Collegians, give students opportunities to ask deeper questions and develop a personal perspective on Christianity • Chapel Service and ice-skating event with Somerville House and Clayfield College

• Spiritual Life Portfolio – Inter-School Christian Fellowship Online • Sport Portfolio – Online Sport Resources and Programs • Visual Art Portfolio – Isolation Art Collection Formal and informal leadership opportunities are also available throughout Junior, Middle and Senior School and the Co-Curricular Program.

Digital citizenship through responsible use of technology All Prep to Year 9 students participated in the Alannah and Madeline Foundation’s Digital Licence Program. The program is designed to protect children from online risk and promote the progression of digital citizenship. It was developed with support from Google and input from cyber safety experts, teachers and industry leaders in education and technology. The program comprises eight engaging, online modules covering the following topics: digital devices, protecting privacy, searching and researching, creating and sharing, social networking and gaming, communicating safely online, relationships and reputation, and online commerce.

Spiritual Life As a church school operating under the governance of Presbyterian and Uniting Churches, the Christian ethos is evident in the culture, teaching and offerings at Brisbane Boys’ College.

Boarding For more than 100 years, the tradition of boarding has played an important role at BBC, providing students with a quality education and residential program tailored to extend their classroom learning.

For boarders at Rudd House, BBC moves beyond education to total care, offering a unique opportunity for boys to meet friends from around Australia and the world, as they develop confidence, character and independence with support from an inclusive and connected community.

Boarding Highlights • Boarding House closed during Term 1 in response to COVID-19 restrictions • Strict health and hygiene practices enforced for Term 2 Boarding House reopening. Continuation of Learning at Home for boarders unable to return due to COVID-19 restrictions • Daily health and wellbeing checks for boarders and staff • New leadership opportunities for every Senior Boarder to participate in running the school day as a Senior on Duty • Boarding House renovations Stage 3B completed, which included Year 9 Dorms, a Rudd Captain’s Room and Residential Tutor’s room

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

21

10

Parent and Community Involvement It takes an entire community working in partnership and staying

available for purchase. These businesses provide a valuable

united in a common purpose to build a great school. Brisbane

service to students and the wider College community, and all

Boys’ College benefits from the support of active groups, such as

profits are channelled back through the school to fund valuable

the Parents & Friends’ Association, Old Collegians’ Association

educational resources.

and BBC Foundation.

Parents and Friends’ Association The Parents and Friends’ (P&F) Association is the College’s main

In 2020, the P&F Association committed to funding a P&F Bursary and Uniform Shop credits for families in financial need, and also put aside funds to help out various Support Groups unable to fundraise due to COVID-19 restrictions.

parent volunteer group. All parents and guardians of current students are eligible to be members.

Old Collegians’ Association

The P&F Association supports the College to provide

This year BBC celebrated the centenary of the Old Collegians’

educational facilities and experiences for students, and gives

Association – giving thanks for one hundred years of OCA

parents opportunities to play an active role in their son’s

support to BBC students and the College community. The

education – strengthening links between the College and the

official gala dinner celebration was cancelled due to COVID-19

wider community. Meeting monthly during term time, the

restrictions, but has been rescheduled for 2021.

P&F Association works closely with the College community to provide support through fundraising, donations and events. It also acts as an umbrella organisation for a number of support groups associated with College sports and activities.

While many celebrations were postponed in 2020, the College’s inaugural Raise Your Boater Day went ahead on 27 August – marking exactly 100 years since the first OCA meeting. On the day, Old Collegians were invited to raise their hat to their BBC

Responsible for the operation of two on-campus businesses,

brothers, reconnect with the Green, White, Black spirit and reflect

the P&F Association runs the College Tuckshop and the College

on their time at the College.

Shop, which incorporate the Uniform Shop and the Second Hand Textbook and Uniform Depot. As an extension of the College Shop, an online webstore was launched in 2020 to provide easy access to the full range of BBC uniform items and College gifts

22

Through the ongoing generosity of Old Collegians and the wider BBC community, the OCA was able to continue funding OCA Bursaries, enabling four boys who would otherwise be unable

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

to afford a BBC education to join the College. The OCA was a

Community Highlights

matching donor for the BBC Foundation’s As One Giving Day and also donated funding for the OCA Centenary Gates project being

P&F Association

built on Moggill Road in 2021.

• Launch of online webstore as an extension of the

Despite some COVID-19 restrictions, the OCA was able to host a number of events and reunions throughout the school calendar to support and connect Old Boys, families and current students. An

College Shop • Funding of P&F Bursaries and uniform shop credits

adjunct to this group are ‘older’ Collegians who form part of the

• Fundraising support for Support Groups

Vintage Collegians group.

• Involvement in As One Giving Day

To this day, the activities of the OCA remain focused on facilitating engagement between Old Collegians, raising the Association’s profile in the broader BBC Community and increasing enrolments of sons of Old Boys at the College.

BBC Foundation The role of the Foundation is to nurture a culture of philanthropy among parents, Old Collegians and friends of the College to provide financial support for the benefit of all BBC boys and to

Old Collegians’ Association • Celebration of OCA Centenary on 27 August 2020, representing 100 years since the first OCA meeting • Funding of OCA Bursaries • Involvement in As One Giving Day BBC Foundation

fund developments at the College through the Foundation Bursary

• $872,850 received in total donations from 391 donors

Fund and Building Fund.

• $563,815 of total donations raised within 24 hours for

2020 built on the increased support received in 2019 as the Foundation focused on transparency and delivering projects enabled by donors. Foundation investments, accounting and governance processes were streamlined and underwent a complete overhaul.

During 2020, the Foundation paid a $150,000 grant to the College to support the Boarding House refurbishment. The Foundation

the As One Giving Day • $1,318,000 received in written pledges to the Building and Bursary Funds for 2021 and beyond • $670,552 in grants was paid by the Foundation to the College for specific Building and Bursary programs • College Corporate Partnerships were established

also worked in conjunction with the OCA and Year 12 cohort to deliver the As One Giving Day, which exceeded all expectations by raising $563,815.

Some major goals achieved this year include completion of the 2019 Giving Day classrooms, approval for the 2020 Giving Day classroom refurbishment to begin, and awarding 17 bursaries for boys to begin their College education in 2021.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

23

11

Parent and Student Satisfaction MMG Education Parent Survey The College is committed to continually improving the quality of

Key areas where parent expectations are being exceeded

education for BBC students. Grounded in the knowledge that

at BBC:

no matter how good a school is it should seek to continually

•

Focus on Student Wellbeing

MMG Education – a consultancy specialising in school research

•

Co-curricular Program

and strategy development. MMG Education surveyed parents

•

Balanced Education / Quality Teaching (equal)

improve itself, the College commissioned the services of

to gain an understanding of their views on performance across a variety of aspects relating to a BBC education.

Some areas at the College needing further investigation or

A total of 725 parents across the Junior, Middle and Senior

early identification/intervention of academic support needs,

refinement include the breadth of social action opportunities,

Schools completed the survey, resulting in a 63 percent response rate. The response from parents was overwhelmingly positive

homework, facility improvements and navigation of Highlands – the College’s Learning Management System.

and families were particularly impressed with the College’s Learning at Home program.

RESULTS SNAPSHOT According to MMG statistics, scores of 80 percent and above indicate strong performance, which translates to high advocacy and school of first choice status.

2020 BBCSATISFACTION parents - Overall satisfaction with the Academic Program OVERALL WITH SON’S EDUCATION BBC OVERALL WITH THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM 2020 BBCSATISFACTION parents - Overall satisfaction with Son’sATEducation at BBC MMG

MMG

Junior School

Middle School Senior School

Overall

REASONS FOR SCHOOL CHOICE Parents were asked what importance they placed on various reasons for choosing BBC for their children.

The five most important reasons: 1. Quality of Teaching (97%) 2. Balanced Education (96%) 3. Focus on Student Wellbeing (96%) 4. The College’s Values (93%) 5. Facilities and Resources (91%)

24

85%

83%

80%

82%

Junior School

Middle School

Senior School

Overall

83%

82%

79%

81%

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

OVERALL WITH LEARNING AT Learning HOME at Home 2020 BBCSATISFACTION parents - Overall satisfaction with MMG

OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH THE CO-CURRICULAR 2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Music Progr MUSIC PROGRAM MMG

Junior School

75%

Junior School

Middle School

81%

Middle School

Senior School

80%

Senior School

Overall

79%

86%

88%

85%

87%

Overall

Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Music: 1. The quality of facilities and resources (90%) 2. Opportunities for my son to participate in an activity of his choice (89%) 3. The way that the program provides opportunities to students of all abilities (88%)

OVERALL WITH CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS (non-sport) OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH THE CO-CURRICULAR 2020 BBCSATISFACTION parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular 2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Sports Program AND ACTIVITIES SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES (GPS) PROGRAM MMG

Junior School

Middle School

MMG

82%

Junior School

83%

79%

Middle School

81%

Senior School

76%

Senior School

81%

Overall

78%

Overall

82%

Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-curricular Sports and Activities:

Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Clubs and Activities:

1. My son’s enjoyment of sporting activities (86%)

1. The quality of facilities and resources (86%)

2. Competitiveness when playing other schools (81%)

2. My son’s overall enjoyment of participating (86%)

3. The way that the program provides opportunities to students of all abilities (80%)

3. Opportunities for my son to participate in an activity of his choice (86%)

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

25

ACER Social Emotional Wellbeing Student Survey For the past three years, the College has deployed the

The survey, which compares performance against the national

ACER Social Emotional Wellbeing Survey to students in

mean, reflects significant improvement across the student

Years 3-12. The survey measures students’ feelings and

population in the following key areas:

behaviours, emotional skills, social skills, values, learning skills

•

sense of belonging

evaluation helps the College assess the wellbeing of students,

•

student voice and conflict resolution

identify the social and emotional needs of student groups, target

•

reducing learned helplessness

of programs, and report on wellbeing to parents and the College

•

learning how to make friends and solve problems

community.

•

learning about different feelings people can have and how to

and perceptions of school, home and community life. This annual

resourcing to specific areas of need, measure the effectiveness

cope with stress

Results from the 2020 survey indicate improvements across each key category surveyed, which supports the idea that the refreshed student wellbeing model and whole school ASPIRE

•

opportunities to discuss how to make school a better and safer place to be.

Positive Education Framework, introduced in 2019, is effectively improving the overall social and emotional wellbeing of students.

RESULTS SNAPSHOT *Percentages reflect the proportion of the student population (Years 7-12) who self-identify with the below statements

In school, I am learning about different feelings people can have and how I can cope with stress.

When I don’t understand something I’m learning, I think that I don’t really have what it takes to be successful.

At my school, students have different opportunities for discussing how they can make school a better and safer place to be.

12% IMPROVEMENT 2019-2020

11% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020

7% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020

BBC 75.3% NATIONAL MEAN 71.6%

BBC 23.2% NATIONAL MEAN 35.0%

BBC 75.3% NATIONAL MEAN 71.6%

I feel very stressed.

I feel like I belong in my school.

I am a happy person.

8% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020

6% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020

4% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020

BBC 37.4% NATIONAL MEAN 35.4%

BBC 90.0% NATIONAL MEAN 80.2%

BBC 94.1% NATIONAL MEAN 85.6%

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

12

Staffing Information Brisbane Boys’ College employs around 225 full-time equivalent staff members in the core areas of teaching, professional services, administrative support and general services. All staff in

Staff Composition In 2020, 63.6 percent of College staff worked in teaching roles

these areas play a valuable role in enabling the College to deliver

and 36.4 percent were in non-teaching roles.

on its educational commitment to students across academic,

Of the staff in teaching roles, 88.8 percent were employed

co-curricular and student wellbeing programs.

full-time and 11.2 percent were part-time; 57.3 percent were male,

The cornerstone of Brisbane Boys’ College is the high quality

while 42.7 percent were female.

of teaching and non-teaching staff it attracts. The College is

Of the staff in non-teaching roles, 79.3 percent were employed

committed to the wellbeing, safety and development of staff, and closely monitors the overall number and composition of staff, professional learning and development opportunities, and retention and separation rates, in line with human resource best practice.

full-time and 20.7 percent were part-time; 41.5 percent were male, while 58.5 percent were female.

During 2020, the College did not employ any full-time or part-time staff who identified as Indigenous.

Qualification of all Teachers Qualification

Percentage of classroom teachers and school leaders at the school who hold this qualification

Doctorate (or higher)

4.2%

Masters

23.1%

Bachelor Degree

70.6%

Diploma

2.1%

Certificate

0

Professional Development In 2020, staff professional development opportunities focused on

The program involves highly trained instructional coaches

developing theoretical and practical understanding of positive

working with teachers to ensure they are using the best and

education, familiarising teachers with the College’s pedagogical

most innovative teaching strategies. This year the College had

framework, and increasing competency across IT platforms. The

15 Middle Leaders involved in the inaugural BBC Leadership

College’s approach to developing collaborative practices among

and Management Development Program. Curriculum Leaders

teachers has been supported using evidence-based High Impact

were also involved in an Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ)

Teaching Strategies, which are at the core of the Partnership

Middle Leaders Program.

Coaching Program.

Teacher Participation in Professional Development (PD) PD activity

Number of teachers who participated in the activity

Unit Planner

78

Microsoft Teams Training

143

Positive Education

143

Partnership Coaching

39

Pedagogical Framework Development

103

TrackOne Training

12

Pedagogical Framework

106

Leadership Course

15

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

27

PSMA Online Training

143

Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA)

2

Learning Events QCAA Courses

28

Write That Essay

15

Learning Support

8

Subject Specific Courses

50

Boarding

4

Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) Training

7

Pastoral Wellbeing

143

LawSense

2

Christian Education

7

CPR Course

143

First Aid Course

32

Maths Online

6

Building Mastery

20

Junior School Online Learning

20

Diving into Data

25

Impact Review School Achievement Data

25

New School of Thought

20

Learning Walks − Sharing Practice, Learning Goals and

20

Success Criteria

Expenditure on Professional Development Total number of teachers

143

Total expenditure on teacher PD

Average expenditure on

(recorded in Financial Questionnaire)

PD per teacher

$133,711

$935

In 2020, 100 percent of teachers at the College participated in PD.

Staff Attendance Average teaching staff attendance at the College, based on unplanned absences of sick and emergency leave periods of up to five days.

Number of staff

Number of school days

Total days staff absences

Average staff attendance rate

143

184

750

95.9%

The average staff attendance rate for permanent and temporary classroom teachers and school leaders in 2020 was 95.9 percent.

Teaching Staff Retention Proportion of permanent teaching staff retained from the previous year.

Number of permanent teaching staff at

Number of these staff retained in the

end of previous year

following year (the program year)

141

136

From the end of 2019, 96.5 percent of staff were retained for the entire 2020 school year.

28

Retention rate

96.5%

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

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Student Outcomes Student Attendance The College promotes and monitors regular school attendance as consistent attendance at school is considered essential for students to make progress. Parents are encouraged to ensure their child attends school regularly and punctually. Unless students are ill or have requested special leave on a given day, the College expects they will maintain in attendance for the entire school day.

The average attendance rate for the whole school as a percentage in 2020 was 95.06% Total number of students 1,451

Number of attendance

Total number of absent

divisions

divisions

250,131

12,998

Average attendance rate 95.06%

Average Student Attendance Rate for each Year Level Year Level

Number of

Number present

students

Number of

Total

Percentage (%)

absences

Prep

20

3,356

171

3,527

95.15

1

22

3,799

93

3,892

97.60

2

29

4,960

172

5,132

96.65

3

27

4,666

163

4,828

96.63

4

56

9,577

355

9,932

96.42

5

73

12,823

529

13,351

96.04

6

87

14,957

587

15,543

96.23

7

133

22,868

1,058

23,926

95.58

8

185

31,199

1,874

33,073

94.33

9

193

33,181

2,080

35,261

94.10

10

202

34,614

2,127

36,740

94.21

11

222

38,831

1,925

40,756

95.28

12

202

35,303

1,865

37,168

94.98

Managing Non-Attendance All parents and guardians must contact the College’s Students Services Office (Middle and Senior School) or Junior School Office, as soon as possible, if their son will be absent from school for any reason.

If a student is absent from their morning tutor group (roll call) without prior notification, an SMS message is sent to parents or guardians notifying them of the non-attendance and requesting they contact the College to explain the absence. The reason for the absence is documented on the College’s database. The College follows up on extended absences via email or phone, directly contacting the parents or guardians. Year Team Leaders, along with the relevant Head of School, in partnership with parents, are responsible for ensuring students attend the College. Any requested leave for up to two days is made by parents or guardians through the student’s Year Team Leader. Leave requests for longer periods are to be made in writing and addressed to the Headmaster for approval.

Apparent Retention Rate Years 10 to 12 Number of students

Year 10 base

Year 12

Retention Rate

198

191

96.46%

Year 12 student enrolment as a percentage of the Year 10 cohort is 96.5 percent.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

29

Year 12 Outcomes / ATAR Results The ‘Class of 2020’ Year 12 students made history by becoming

The College recognises the important partnership it shares with

the first cohort to graduate through the Senior Assessment

parents and guardians. It is equally appropriate to acknowledge

Tertiary Entrance (SATE) system and receive an Australian Tertiary

the committed teaching staff who have educated, inspired,

Admission Rank (ATAR)* rather than an Overall Position (OP)

engaged, challenged and supported the graduating class

in Queensland. Their results once again place BBC among the

throughout their BBC journey.

top performing academic schools in Queensland and are a credit to the hard work and steadfast commitment of the graduating class.

The College also acknowledges the outstanding achievements of three BBC students who received the highest possible ATAR of 99.95.

*ATAR is used for university entrance and the highest ranking on the 2,000 point scale is 99.95, with increments of 0.05.

RESULTS SNAPSHOT The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) released the following results for the BBC Class of 2020:

24.7%

TOP ATAR

of students in the top 5% ATAR OF 95+

9.3%

of students in the top 1% ATAR OF 99+

MEDIAN ATAR

88.30

44.7% of students in the top 10%

99.95

MATTHEW CHEN, CODY FANG AND MAX FOREMAN

ATAR OF 90+

(the ATAR of the middle student)

These boys represent

3YEAROF 30 12 STUDENTS This information is based on data available to the College from the 84 percent of students who applied for tertiary entrance into university and consented to sharing their information with the school.

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TO ACHIEVE THE TOP RESULT IN QLD

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

16% OF STUDENTS

KEY STUDY AREAS Creative Arts

received early offers from QUT and Griffith University

Architecture and Building

Management and Commerce

5.5% 7.75%

UNIVERSITY PREFERENCES

Natural and Physical Sciences

1. University of Queensland (UQ) 2. Queensland University of Technology (QUT) 3. Griffith University 4. James Cook University (JCU) 5. Central Queensland University (CQU) / University of Sunshine Coast (USC) / SAE Creative Media

Health

22.75%

13.15%

18.5%

13.75%

Society and Culture

18.5%

Engineering

Post school destinations Outcomes for the BBC Class of 2020 Number of students awarded a Senior Education Profile

201

Number of students awarded a QLD Certificate of Education at the end of Year 12

195

Number of students awarded a QLD Certificate of Individual Achievement

0

Number of students who received an ATAR

149 (based on students who nominated to share this data with BBC)

Number of students who are completing or completed a school-based apprenticeship

5

or traineeship Number of students awarded one or more Vocational Education and Training qualifications 50 Number of students awarded an International Baccalaureate Diploma

0 (Not offered at BBC)

Number of students awarded VET qualifications: Certificate 1

1

Certificate 2

1

Certificate 2

18

Certificate 4

0

Diploma

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Percentage of Year 12 students who received an ATAR of 99 and above

9.3%

Percentage of Year 12 students who received an ATAR of 95 and above

24.7%

Percentage of Year 12 students who received an ATAR of 90 and above

44.7%

Percentage of QTAC applicants who received a tertiary offer

Due to a higher than usual volume of applications in Semester 2 instead of Semester 1, final data is not yet available. The current figure (at time of publishing) is 94%.

NAPLAN Results Due to regulatory requirements and COVID-19 restrictions, students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 were unable to undertake the National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) this year. As such, there are no NAPLAN results to report in 2020.

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

31

14

Financial Information The School Council, Principal and Business Manager are jointly responsible for

A financial summary of the PMSA accounts is

managing the College’s financial accounts, budget and performance. Brisbane

publicly available in the PMSA Annual Report on

Boys’ College has independent income, bank accounts, expenditure and targets.

the PMSA website (pmsa-schools.edu.au) and

These are separate and distinct from the other PMSA schools.

the consolidated audited financial statements

All income that Brisbane Boys’ College receives from fees, donations, government grants and any other source is used entirely to operate and develop the College.

No funds are shared, cross-subsidised or transferred between any PMSA schools.

Although operated independently, Brisbane Boys’ College is owned by the PMSA and is part of a single legal entity which is the PMSA. As part of the PMSA Group, Brisbane Boys’ College’s financial accounts and financial statements are prepared by the school’s Business Manager, and presented to and ratified by the PMSA’s

are available on the ACNC registry. Accounting policies are published in these accounts.

The PMSA works to ensure that Group performance is achieved and optimised through a range of defined oversight and governance processes, as well as prudent financial management. Each year, PMSA schools pay an amount to the PMSA to cover PMSA Group

Audit, Finance & Risk Committee. These are independently audited by KPMG

Office governing costs as well as collective

and then consolidated into the PMSA Group special purpose financial statements

expenses such as insurance premiums,

for reporting.

auditing, professional development and training,

The PMSA’s audited financial statements are prepared in accordance with

compliance, and other consolidated school

Australian Accounting Standards and include accounting policies. They comply

expenses.

with the Association Incorporations Act 1981, Australian Education Act 2013, Education (Accreditation of Non-State Schools) Act 2017, and Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012.

Brisbane Boys’ College Financial Performance as at 31 December 2020 Sources of Operational Income 2020

Operational expenditure 2020

(excludes capital income)

TUITION FEES COMMONWEALTH RECURRENT GRANTS STATE RECURRENT GRANTS BOARDING FEES OTHER INCOME DONATIONS RECEIVED

32

66%

74%

STAFF SALARIES

12%

DEPRECIATION

9%

7%

ACADEMIC COSTS

7%

5%

ADMINISTRATION COSTS

7%

2%

MAINTENANCE

8%

0%

FINANCING COSTS

1%

BOARDING COSTS

2%

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

15

From the Chaplain

Brisbane Boys’ College has a proud history of being a Christian school connected with the Methodist/Uniting and Presbyterian churches. It was a privilege to move into the position of Chaplain in 2020 and help continue to build on the foundation created more than one century ago.

Together, with the Ministry/Christian Education team, we strive to share the love of God with the boys we work with. Teaching classes across almost every year level has enabled me to get to know the boys and engage them in an exploration of Christ, Christianity and the values that come with that.

2020 has seen us all face many challenges due to the impact of COVID-19, but I think something everyone has learned is that our relationships with each other are so very important.

The crux of the Christian message that we try to teach, and role model, is exactly that.

In Mark 12:28-31 it says: One of the teachers of the law asked Jesus, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.

“The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’. There is no commandment greater than these.”

So, according to Jesus, there is nothing more vital than developing our relationship with God as we take step after step in this journey called life. But Jesus does not stop with the ‘God’ relationship, because we were not designed to live in isolation.

We are also called to develop relationships with our family, our friends, our community and, in fact, all those in need within the world we live.

My aim is to help the BBC community consider and apply this.

Christianity is not just about saying, “I believe in God”. It is about following the example of Christ in word, speech and action every single day.

Mr Stephen Ward COLLEGE CHAPLAIN

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

33

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About the PMSA The PMSA owns four outstanding Queensland schools – Brisbane Boys’ College, Clayfield College, Somerville House and Sunshine Coast Grammar School.

Established in 1918, the PMSA is a joint mission of the Uniting Church in Australia, Queensland Synod and the Presbyterian Church of Queensland to provide education founded on strong Christian values.

One hundred years on, in an increasingly dynamic and interconnected world, our schools continue to offer students

Guided by Values The PMSA and each of their unique schools share collective values that play a part in every aspect of daily lives: RELATIONSHIPS We strive to form binding, constructive relationships based on faith, love, compassion and forgiveness.

an outstanding education, access to global opportunities and

CARE

ecumenical values for life.

We care for our people and seek and provide a safe

For more information about the PMSA, visit pmsa-schools.edu.au.

Mission, Vision and Values PMSA Mission The PMSA’s mission is to provide outstanding teaching and learning environments for students and staff, in schools built on the teachings and examples of Jesus Christ. Their focus is to enable students to discover and then develop their God-given talents. Their aim is for students to achieve personal excellence, live a fulfilling and satisfying life and make a meaningful contribution to family and society.

environment for growth and development, where we can respect ourselves and the needs of others.

ETHICS We encourage the building of strong ethical standards based on truth and integrity.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT We foster resilience, where we learn from our mistakes and successes, and seek continuous improvement and self management.

EXCELLENCE

Driven by Vision The PMSA’s vision is to build caring school communities, by providing world-class teaching and learning environments of excellence, founded on Christian faith and actions.

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We aspire to achieve excellence and encourage each person to reach our potential.

CELEBRATION We collectively recognise and celebrate our own and others’ achievements and milestones.

B R I S B A N E B OY S ’ C O L L E G E

2020 ANNUAL REPORT

35

A school of the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (PMSA).

The PMSA is a mission of the Presbyterian and Uniting Churches.

THE PRESBYTERIAN AND METHODIST SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION T/A BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE KENSINGTON TERRACE, TOOWONG, QUEENSLAND, 4066, AUSTRALIA CRICOS 00491J ABN 43 257 489 023 T +61 7 3309 3500 F +61 7 3371 2679 E mail@bbc.qld.edu.au W bbc.qld.edu.au