The Parent & Citizen Journal is published once a term and is a great way to showcase what your P&C Association and school community is up to. If your school, students or P&C Association is doing something special this year, share your story and photos with us and fellow school communities.
Contributions and feedback to: E: journal@pandc.org.au
Advertising E: journal@pandc.org.au
T: 1300 885 982
Follow us on
Facebook: @NSWPandCFed
Twitter: @NSWPandCFed
Instagram: @pandcnsw
LinkedIn: Federation of Parents and Citizens Associations of New South Wales
The views expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the Federation of Parents and Citizens Associations of New South Wales
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
By Yvonne Hilsz, P&C Federation President
Hello and welcome back for Term 3. The year is progressing at an amazing rate and we have been busy working on behalf of parents and carers in NSW.
As we find ourselves in the second half of the year, it is a pleasure to reflect on the remarkable progress and achievements we’ve made so far. At the P&C Federation, we have been tirelessly working to enhance the public school communities across NSW through various initiatives and campaigns, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impacts of our efforts.
Full Funding Campaign update
One of our most significant ongoing initiatives is our Full Funding Campaign. This crucial advocacy effort aims to ensure that our public schools in NSW are fully funded to the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS). Adequate funding is essential for providing the resources our children need to succeed academically and personally.
The SRS sets a benchmark for the level of resources required to give every student the opportunity to meet minimum standards. Our campaign has been gaining momentum, thanks to the unwavering support and involvement of our members and the broader community. Together, we are making a strong case to the government that investing in our children’s education is investing in the future of our society.
P&C Federation Road Shows
In addition to our advocacy work, we launched our Road Shows around NSW this year, which have been a phenomenal success. These Road Shows are designed to connect with P&C Associations across the state, particularly focusing on rural and regional areas. It has been inspiring to visit these communities, listen to their unique challenges, and celebrate their achievements. The enthusiasm and dedication of P&C Association members in these areas has been truly heartening. Our visits have not only strengthened our ties with these communities, but have also provided us with invaluable insights into how we can better support them.
Member Services here to help
Our Member Services team continues to be the backbone of our organisation, providing daily support and resources to all
P&C Associations in NSW. Their dedication ensures that each association has access to the information and tools they need to operate effectively and advocate for their schools. The team’s efforts have been instrumental in empowering P&Cs to make a meaningful impact at their respective schools. Whether it’s through providing guidance on governance, helping with fundraising strategies, or offering training sessions, the Member Services team is always ready to assist.
CEO update
As we look back on the accomplishments of Term 2, it’s also a moment of transition for our organisation. Jane Miller (pictured, above), who has served as the CEO of the P&C Federation for the past 18 months, is finishing her role. Jane’s leadership and vision have been pivotal in steering our Federation through significant milestones. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jane for her dedication and wish her all the best in her future endeavours. It is my pleasure to announce that our new CEO is Gemma Quinn. Gemma brings a wealth of experience in public education in NSW to the role, and has served in the Federation for the past
year as Member Services Manager. Join me in congratulating Gemma, and read more about her appointment on page 7.
Collaboration and commitment
Looking ahead, we are filled with excitement for the new term and the opportunities it brings. We are committed to continuing our advocacy for full funding, expanding our support for P&C Associations, and exploring new initiatives that benefit public education in NSW.
The coming months will undoubtedly present challenges, but with the collective effort and passion of our members, we are confident in our ability to make a positive difference.
As we move forward, we remain focused on our mission to act in the best interests of public education and the parents and carers of NSW. The strength of our federation lies in the collaboration and commitment of our community. Together, we can achieve great things and ensure that every child in NSW has access to a high-quality education.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Let’s make the most of the opportunities ahead and continue to champion the cause of public education in NSW.
P&C Federation President Yvonne Hilsz speaking to Merewether High School P&C Association members in Newcastle during the Hunter Central Coast Road Show event in May. Photo: P&C Federation NSW
Jane Miller
Yvonne Hilsz
SECRETARY’S MESSAGE
By Murat Dizdar, Secretary, NSW Department of Education
Our schools are the engine rooms for brighter futures, bringing together children from all walks of life and fostering an environment where they can learn and grow.
5 -9 August marks Public Education Week, which is a great opportunity to celebrate the people who make up our school communities. This includes our vibrant mix of students, our dedicated teachers, and our families who bring their kids through the gates each morning.
This year’s theme is ‘Proud to Belong’, giving schools the opportunity to share in the pride we have in public education by showcasing the achievements of our students and staff.
It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, or what your story is – public education welcomes all learners. Embracing this diversity not only enriches every child’s educational experience, but also equips them to thrive in the dynamic world that awaits when they finish school. I want to thank every parent and carer for the crucial role you play in helping our schools cultivate these inclusive spaces, where every child can feel proud to belong.
Our rural and regional communities The department’s executive team and I have had the pleasure of travelling across NSW to connect with rural and regional communities as part of the NSW Department of Education’s Rural and Regional Roadshow. In Term 2 we held sessions in Nowra, Queanbeyan, Wagga Wagga, Tamworth, Dubbo, Ballina, Coffs Harbour and Sydney, and in Term 3 we’ll be in Bathurst and Coonamble.
It’s been so valuable to be on the ground and witness first-hand the incredible work happening in public schools in these areas and unpack the unique challenges they face. Forty per cent of NSW public schools are in rural, regional, and remote communities, and we want these students to have every opportunity that is available to their metropolitan peers.
Our Rural and Remote Education Implementation Plan is already set to make some positive changes for the benefit of students. It will remove barriers to teacher housing, foster better
It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, or what your story is – public education welcomes all learners.
professional connections for staff, and give contextually-relevant recruitment support for these schools. I look forward to delivering even more targeted initiatives in the years ahead to help these schools provide a quality educational experience for all students.
Keeping the fire burning
We acknowledge and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as the oldest culture, and work diligently to strengthen our relationships with communities to establish strong partnerships and drive positive change. It’s been terrific to see this enduring legacy upheld through NAIDOC Week celebrations all over NSW. This year’s theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’, signified the ongoing importance of keeping culture alive through sharing stories and teaching histories.
Schools participated in many ways, such as inviting parents/carers, local Elders and/or key Aboriginal community members to address their assemblies; conducting workshops on local cultural practices; teaching languages; and sharing stories and histories related to their Country. These events inevitably teach me something new and are a timely reminder of the important role public education plays in building and maintaining respectful relationships with Aboriginal students, their families, and their communities. It’s also a time
to reflect on the enduring strength and courage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recognise the powerful impact that comes with generously sharing their unique culture.
Supporting LGBTQIA+ people
Students look to all of us for guidance and inspiration. If we are to truly create opportunities and lift students up, then we need to live and breathe inclusive values ourselves.
NSW Education has been proud to march in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras for two years running. This has not only been a wonderful celebration of diversity, inclusion, and belonging, but also created a ripple effect of external visibility for our students. After our first Mardi Gras, our Schools Spectacular had an increase in diverse representation from kids all over NSW. As we wrap up applications and finalise the program for Schools Spectacular in 2024, I look forward to seeing the breadth of talent that takes the stage later this year.
Advancing diversity and inclusion
Our Plan for NSW Public Education strongly upholds the values of diversity and inclusion. It commits us to do everything in our power to close existing gaps to disadvantage and offer differentiated resources where they are needed most.
This term we will be proud to share our first progress report on how we are tracking to transform lives through learning. This includes an update on how we are bridging disadvantage gaps for our equity cohorts. A perfect example of this can also be found in the article on pages 22-23 of this issue of the journal, which highlights the outstanding and inclusive efforts of our Arts Unit in supporting children.
I want to thank all parents and carers for their continued advice as we bring the plan to life and reaffirm my commitment that public education is here to help every single child learn, grow, and belong.
Murat Dizdar
The Secretary, Murat Dizdar, with Principal, Tracy Delaney, greets a student at Estella Public School, Wagga Wagga during the department’s Rural and Regional Roadshow visit in Term 2. Photo: the NSW Department of Education
PARENT ENGAGEMENT REAPS REWARDS
By Wade Marionneaux, P&C Federation Board Member, and Executive Director, West Sydney Electorate
One of the primary goals of a school’s P&C Association is to foster a sense of community where parents and schools can work in partnership to support our children’s education. But amidst all of the activities and meetings and fundraising, it is easy to lose sight of why a sense of community is so important.
In a school with a healthy, inclusive and welcoming relationship between parents and educators, parents are more likely to engage with a child’s school and a child’s learning. And parent engagement can supercharge nearly all of a child’s school outcomes from behaviour to wellbeing to graduation rates.
How parents can get involved
There is a growing body of research on the kind of parent engagement that is effective and the types of outcomes that parent engagement can improve. Broadly speaking, the forms of parent engagement can be broken down into engagement with school and engagement at home.
At school
Engagement with school can come in the form of attending school events and performances, volunteering in the classroom, attending parent teacher conferences, and participating in school governance through the P&C Association.
At home
Engagement at home includes discussions about school, encouragement of academic pursuits, reading together, providing enriching activities like going to the library, and providing a quiet place to do homework.
The positive benefits
In terms of outcomes, the list of positive benefits is long. Research shows that students with engaged parents demonstrate higher test scores, higher graduation rates, improved attendance, better social skills, better behaviour, a stronger belief in the importance of education, and greater overall wellbeing. These results remain consistent over time even as the type of engagement changes – parents in primary school may be more likely to help out in the classroom, while parents in high school may be more likely to encourage academic pursuits or participate in school governance.
The benefits are not inconsequential. In fact, parental engagement is actually a stronger predictor of educational outcomes than a family’s socio-economic background. Students with engaged parents – no matter what their income or background – are more likely to do well at school, graduate from school, and go on to higher education. Not only that, but a 2008 study, by Houtenville and Conway in the United States, actually estimated that the combined value to a student of overall parent engagement was equivalent to an extra $1,000 in government
spending per student, per year.
This research is borne out in the experience of The Smith Family working with families experiencing disadvantage, as reported in their 2023 submission to the Review to Inform a Better and Fairer Education System (National School Reform Agreement Consultation).
Improved student wellbeing
Improvements in achievement are important, but for many parents improved student wellbeing may be the most important benefit that can come from engaging with education. A 2014 international study of Year 9 and 10 students in Jordan found that parental involvement in school had a measurable positive impact on students’ emotional engagement in school. Put simply, students with more involved parents were more likely to have fun, enjoy school, have
Research shows that students with engaged parents demonstrate higher test scores, higher graduation rates, improved attendance, better social skills, better behaviour, a stronger belief in the importance of education, and greater overall wellbeing. Photos: P&C Federation NSW
Continued next page
Wade Marionneaux
INTRODUCING OUR NEW CEO, GEMMA QUINN
We are pleased to announce the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the P&C Federation of NSW is Gemma Quinn.
Gemma brings to the role an extensive background in supporting public education in NSW and has worked within the P&C Federation as an exemplary Member Services Manager for the past year.
We are excited about this new chapter for the Federation and the expertise and leadership that Gemma will bring to this role.
“I am incredibly honoured to step into the role of CEO at the P&C Federation of NSW,” Gemma said.
“I am excited to continue working with our members to support and advocate for public
Parent Engagement Reaps Rewards. Continued from p6
high self-esteem, and to perceive school as a satisfying experience. Although there are a variety of theories to explain this effect, the simplest one seems the most likely: having parents involved at their school can help children to feel safe at school and convey to students that parents value and support education, and thus make children themselves more likely to engage.
The benefits for parents
The benefits also don’t all accrue to students. School engagement, especially through a P&C Association, can help parents to build social networks, understand school norms, and gain knowledge about the school curriculum. These benefits are particularly strong for parents that did not have positive experiences at school themselves or that come from different cultural backgrounds. For parents from differing cultural or language groups, the opportunity to work and engage with other parents in a canteen or at a sausage sizzle presents a unique opportunity to grow language skills and build relationships in the local community.
Not the homework!
Not every type of parental engagement is beneficial though. In a 2019 meta-analysis of 448 separate independent studies on parent involvement, by Barger and colleagues, the authors determined that one particular kind of parent involvement had
education. Together, we can achieve great things for our schools and communities.
“As the mother of two children in a public school, I am proud to be actively involved in our local P&C Association and a volunteer in our school community,” Gemma said.
“I understand the challenges parents face, and I have seen first-hand that parental engagement is the backbone of public education.
“For the last year I have heard stories about the extraordinary efforts of our members to meet the funding gap in our schools.
“My first priority as CEO is to ensure that the Government invests in our children’s education and wellbeing.”
Gemma’s extensive experience and passion for public education make her an ideal candidate to take on the CEO role. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact she will have and look forward to her leadership guiding the Federation into a bright future.
a negative impact on student achievement – assistance with homework. While having a parent who asks about homework, or encourages the completion of homework, or provides a quiet place to actually do homework is beneficial, actually attempting to help with homework is not.
The best investment
The lessons from the research are simple: being engaged in your child’s education is one of the best investments that a parent can make. Attending events, talking to teachers, asking about assignments, reading together, or joining a P&C Association – all of these activities pay dividends for your child. Just please, don’t try to help with homework!
References and further reading
If you’re interested in reading more on this topic, scan the QR code below to access the full reference list for this article on the P&C Federation website:
Gemma Quinn
You have enough on, let Providoor sort dinner!
Providoor in partnership with the P&C Federation of NSW is proud to help make both dinner time and fundraising easier for your P&C Association! All member P&Cs are eligible to register to receive their own webpage on the Providoor site and receive a generous commission on every sale. Registering your school P&C takes less than 5 minutes and could earn you thousands of dollars a year in commission.
DELICIOUS NEW FUNDRAISING PARTNERSHIP SUPPORTS P&C s
The NSW P&C Federation has signed a first-of-its-kind fundraising partnership with gourmet frozen meal delivery service, Providoor, to make it easier for P&C Associations to raise much-needed funds for their schools.
School P&Cs that join the partnership program will receive a percentage of sales made through their unique Providoor web pages using their own shareable URLs and QR codes. Customers also receive a 10% discount on their order at checkout.
A ‘win-win solution’
“This partnership with Providoor marks a significant advancement for our P&Cs, creating a fundraising solution that benefits everyone involved,” P&C Federation of NSW President Yvonne Hilsz said.
“Not only does it offer families quality meal options at a discount, but it also ensures a steady commission for P&Cs. It’s a win-win solution that supports our communities while fundraising,” Ms Hilsz said.
Minimal effort required!
P&C Associations across NSW will have access to the new fundraising initiative to add to their toolkit of activities. Two of the best things about the Providoor fundraising program are that it requires minimal volunteer effort, and can be active all year round, even in the school holidays!
A recent P&C Federation survey of NSW P&C Association members found more than 2,000 hours of volunteer time goes into running the average P&C each year. And a large portion of that is spent on events and initiatives for critical fundraising. In 2023 NSW P&C Associations raised more than $40 million to supplement public school funding.
“P&Cs constantly seek new and engaging ways to fundraise. This partnership with Providoor offers a fun and straightforward way for P&Cs to reach their goals through a year-round program,” Ms Hilsz said.
“This partnership minimises the time commitment from volunteers while maximising returns. This approach allows more members to contribute in ways that fit their busy schedules.”
P&C Federation Chief Executive Officer Gemma Quinn said: “We are so excited
about the opportunities our new partnership with Providoor presents for the regions. By partnering with Providoor we are able to introduce a new meal delivery service into the regions and a new fundraising opportunity for our P&Cs in regional public schools.”
Over 40 P&C Associations have already registered with the Providoor Partnership across NSW.
Providoor Chief Marketing Officer Gavin Youngman said: “We’re delighted to be able to partner with the P&C Federation of NSW to not only make dinner time easier for families but support the amazing work that parents do to make our schools better.
“It also alleviates parent fatigue when it comes to fundraising, because P&Cs have the ability to drive this fundraising stream
into the wider local community, and out to friends and family as well.
“Every Providoor customer who comes in through a P&C will also receive 10% off their order,” Mr Youngman said.
HOW IT WORKS
Cook & create Restaurant quality, delicious dishes. Cocreated by Australia’s most loved chefs and the Providoor team.
Freeze & pack Snap frozen to lock in flavour & freshness. Packed, shipped & delivered straight to your door.
Heat & enjoy
Convenient, simple and easy to reheat. Bursting with flavour and landing on your dinner table in as little as three minutes.
Win a Providoor chef at your school
As part of the launch of the NSW P&C Federation’s new Providoor partnership, schools also have the opportunity to enter a competition to win a visit from a Providoor celebrity chef to a fundraising event at your school in Term 4*.
Register your P&C at https://bit.ly/pandc-members-portalProvidoor-Partnership and begin promoting your Providoor website before 31 August 2024 to secure a minimum of 10 sales and you will go into the draw.
“[It could be] Manu Feildel (pictured) reading trivia night questions, Anna Polyviou running a private cooking class or Justin Narayan firing the starting pistol for a parents foot race, [for example],” Providoor Chief Marketing Officer Gavin Youngman said.
*The celebrity chef who will be at the school event will depend on the availability of the chefs against the timing of the event.
Epping North Public School’s Providoor web page. Each P&C Association that joins the Providoor/ P&C Federation partnership program will receive their own Providoor web page, with shareable URLs and QR codes
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Does my P&C need to sign an agreement with Providoor?
A: No, the P&C Federation of NSW has signed an exclusive first-of-its-kind fundraising partnership agreement with Providoor, which entitles all P&C Association members to a commission on sales and discount for customers.
Q: How long does it take to register?
A: Five minutes! Have an Office Bearer from your P&C Association upload your details and we’ll get you everything you need within a few working days. Register here: https://providoor.com/pages/pandc-affiliate
Q: Are there any costs to set up?
A: No! Joining the P&C Providoor program is FREE! There is no minimum time commitment, or limit on how much you can raise.
Q: How much of each order goes to our
P&C Association?
A: A percentage of each total order value (excluding shipping, bundles, and sales items) is sent to the school P&C Association. Every customer that uses your P&C Association’s Providoor web page receives a 10% discount. More details are available in the Providoor Partnership Handbook, which you’ll receive when your P&C joins the program, or you can view when you login to the P&C Federation Member Portal.
Q: Can people use our web page more than once?
A: Absolutely! The more orders from your very own Providoor web page, the more support your P&C Association receives.
Q: Can people share our school’s Providoor link with others?
A: Yes! Spread the Providoor love! Friends and family can enjoy gourmet meals and support your school, so share the link widely to help maximise your fundraising efforts.
Q: Can we stop our other fundraising efforts?
A: We see this opportunity as a way to diversify your fundraising toolkit with an income all year round. We will send you the Providoor Partnership Handbook with handy tips and images you can use for marketing.
Q: Will we receive assistance and support with marketing?
A: We have created the Providoor Partnership Handbook to help your P&C Association plan for your launch and ongoing promotion of the partnership. We have also created Providoor/P&C videos, social media posts, flyers and other content on the P&C Federation Member Portal to help you launch and fundraise.
Q: Does Providoor deliver in my area?
A: In NSW, Providoor offers delivery to Sydney Metro, Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Newcastle, and Wollongong. See here for delivery details: https://providoor.com/ pages/faqs. If Providoor doesn’t currently deliver to your area but your P&C Association wants to join, Providoor will activate its delivery network in your area.
Just some of the Providoor meals on offer (from left): George Calombaris’ 12-Hour Slow-Cooked Shoulder of Lamb, Silvia Colloca’s Lemon Chicken Scallopini, Luke Nguyen’s Butter Chicken, and Manu Feildel’s Beef Bourguignon. Photos: Providoor
The Providoor chefs (from left): Luke Nguyen, Anna Polyviou, Justin Narayan, Marco Pierre White, Gary Mehigan, Silvia Colloca, Manu Feildel, Christine Manfield and George Calombaris. Photo: Providoor
ROAD SHOW LAUNCH A RESOUNDING SUCCESS!
By Sam Manchester, P&C Federation Communications Manager
The P&C Federation launched its 2024 Road Show program in Newcastle on 31 May, with the first event drawing enthusiastic members from P&C Associations in the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
The 2024 Road Show is a new initiative for the P&C Federation. This year we are replacing our annual conference in Sydney with a series of Road Show events for P&C Association members in nine regional and rural areas of NSW throughout 2024. The Road Show enables us to share best practice on topics such as running P&C Associations and attracting volunteers, as well as hearing from you, our members, to understand your priorities, hear about your projects and how our Federation can better support you. This is a significant new initiative and we are very excited to be visiting so many areas of NSW to get to know our members even better.
Off to a flying start
Our first Road Show event in Newcastle on 31 May was a resounding success, with participants eager to engage with the presentations as well as each other. We had a fantastic time fielding questions and comments and getting to know members
in this region. A big thank you to all who attended and made it such a great event, with special thanks to Merewether High School P&C Association for hosting us at their school.
The program featured informative sessions aimed at enhancing members’ understanding of running a P&C Association, effective fundraising strategies, and building strong relationships within their school communities. The interactive nature of the sessions allowed for rich discussions, where members could share their successes and challenges, fostering a sense of community and collective learning.
The feedback we received was invaluable and will play a crucial role in shaping our future initiatives. The event underscored the importance of direct engagement and reaffirmed our commitment to being responsive and supportive for all P&C Associations.
We want to meet you!
Following the successful kick-off in Newcastle, we are excited to continue our journey through NSW, with Road Show events in the following regions during 2024: the
Riverina (29 July), the North Coast, New England, Southern and Central Tablelands, the Far West, the mid North Coast, the South Coast, and Macarthur. We will be visiting a different region each month and will release information to members in each region closer to the time of each event.
By visiting these diverse regions, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the varied experiences of parents, P&C Associations and schools across NSW and tailor our support to meet their unique challenges.
We would like to meet as many P&C Association members as possible, and we are looking forward to meeting you! We know that the event locations will be easier to get to for some members than others, so we have also established a Travel Assistance Fund to ensure each P&C Association can attend. You can read more about the assistance fund and application process on our website at https://www.pandc.org.au/ pc-roadshow-2024/.
What to expect at your Road Show
Our main objectives for each Road Show event are to meet our P&C Association members face-to-face, listen to their stories,
The photos on these pages are from our Hunter and Central Coast Road Show, held at Merewether High School, Newcastle, in May.
Photos: P&C Federation NSW
and offer practical support and resources. You can expect:
• Informative presentations: focused on essential skills such as effective governance, fundraising, and community engagement.
• Networ king opportunities: facilitating connections between P&C Association members from different schools and parts of their region, allowing them to exchange ideas and best practices.
• Oppor tunity for Q&As: members can share their experiences and ask questions for immediate support. This will help shape how the Federation equips and resources P&C Associations.
• Resources: at each Road Show we are offering materials and tools to help P&C Associations operate
more efficiently and effectively. Each attendee receives a bag with resources and materials to make their work easier and more efficient.
Register for your Road Show
You can read about the 2024 Road Show program on our website, and see a list and details for all the upcoming events.
Visit https://www.pandc.org.au/pcroadshow-2024/ to register for your local Road Show once the event is open. We will also be sharing our upcoming Road Shows on social media, in our e-Bulletin as well as via direct emails. Please make sure your details are up to date on the Member Portal so you don’t miss out: https://www.pandc. org.au/member-register-update/
Keep an eye out for when the P&C Federation is coming to your region!
The journey ahead
The 2024 Road Show represents a significant step forward in the P&C Federation’s mission to support P&C Associations across NSW. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to acting in the best interests of public education and the parents and carers of NSW. By bringing our resources and support directly to our P&C communities, we aim to empower P&C Associations to make a meaningful impact at their schools.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. We look forward to meeting you at our upcoming Road Show events and working together to enhance the educational experience for all students in NSW.
INCLUSION AND WELLBEING RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
Supplied by the NSW Department of Education
Through the NSW Department of Education’s Our Plan for NSW Public Education the commitment to equity and excellence means every student can learn, grow and belong at school.
We aim to strengthen student wellbeing and development through evidence-informed whole-school wellbeing approaches and by building partnerships with students and families to connect them to the support they need.
This article shares information for parents and carers about several department initiatives and resources to support student wellbeing and inclusion.
Student Wellbeing External Programs
Promoting student wellbeing is a collective effort involving schools, parents and carers, and communities. Our Student Wellbeing External Programs Catalogue features a diverse range of evidence-based programs that improve student wellbeing, learning, and life outcomes. With over 70 quality-assured programs across four priority themes, schools can select initiatives that align with their specific needs and priorities.
From fostering respectful relationships and promoting positive behaviour, to nurturing a sense of belonging and building resilience, these programs offer comprehensive support. By strategically investing in these programs, schools can reduce administrative burden and effectively use their funding.
The content of these programs is supported by strong evidence and aligns with the curriculum.
More information and a list of all providers and programs can be found on the department’s website via this QR code.
Disability resources parent hub
Our Inclusive Learning Support hub aims to help parents of students with disabilities throughout their child’s education. The hub is your go-to destination for navigating the journey of inclusive learning support. There is guidance on enrolment procedures, key contacts within schools and the supports
available for students with disabilities.
Whether your child is transitioning into early childhood, primary school, high school, or post-school life, you’ll find resources tailored to each stage of their educational journey.
Accessible digitally or through printable sheets, the hub offers convenience and empowerment at your fingertips. We want to work with parents and carers to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive in an inclusive educational environment.
Access the hub using this QR code.
Resources on behaviour
We are committed to ensuring the safety of all members of the school community. In line with our student behaviour policy, throughout 2024 every NSW public school is developing its school behaviour support and management plan (including anti-bullying strategies) ready for implementation from Term 1 2025. These plans will prioritise continuity of learning and facilitate whole-school, prevention-focused and positive approaches to behaviour
support, to meet the needs of all students.
If your child has been impacted by the behaviour of others or has behaved in a way that has impacted other people at school, practical strategies and resources are available through our Behaviour Support Toolkit. Designed to foster collaboration between parents and carers and schools, the toolkit offers guidance on addressing behaviour concerns effectively, including information on advocating for your child at school and supporting your child’s wellbeing.
Our anti-bullying web page (use the antibullying strategies QR code on the next page to access) also provides parents and carers with tools to recognise, prevent, and cope with bullying, both online and offline. On the web page, you’ll find information on topics including:
• what is bullying?
• what to do if your child is being bullied or is bullying others
• staying safe online and reporting online harm
• coping skills and resilience.
Our Plan for NSW Public Education means every student can learn, grow and belong at school. Photo: the NSW Department of Education
You can access the parent and carer resources on behaviour using the following QR codes:
Student behaviour policy
Wellbeing resources
Parents and carers can also access resources and wellbeing services to help look after their own and their child’s wellbeing, using the following QR codes:
Resources to support wellbeing
School behaviour support and management plan
Anti-bullying strategies
Behaviour Support Toolkit
Wellbeing services
Together, we can create safe and positive learning environments for all students to thrive.
Our Plan for NSW Public Education
Photo: the NSW Department of Education
NESA NEWS
By Paul Martin, CEO NSW Education Standards Authority
Our Year 12 students are now approaching the final stage of their HSC journey and while written examinations don’t start until 15 October, many are completing their school-based assessments, preparing for performance or language oral exams, or are busy completing their Major Works.
HSC support and resources
As part of our efforts to help prepare and support HSC students, NESA produces the HSC Study Guide each year in partnership with The Sydney Morning Herald. The guide is live online now and I invite parents, caregivers, teachers – and of course students – to spend some time taking in all the information and advice found at smh.com.au/ hscstudyguide2024
Some famous faces have shared their own stories of success following the HSC – and have all pursued very different careers. There are tips from past graduates, expert advice from HSC markers, practical supports from our mental health and wellbeing partners at ReachOut – and even a quiz for students to test their knowledge. The guide also includes links to our website, where students can find past papers and feedback from markers.
WHAT IS NESA?
The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) is an independent statutory authority reporting to an independent Board and the NSW Minister for Education and Early Learning. We support the school sectors to deliver the best possible outcomes for students through highquality syllabuses, assessment, teaching standards and school environments.
NESA is also working to support improvements in Aboriginal education; reduce the administrative burden on schools and teachers relating to accreditation; engage with all stakeholders and school sectors on senior high school reform; and action recommendations from the Quality Initial Teacher Education Review.
explanation of the ways we can support students to do their best in the HSC.
Another avenue for supporting students is NESA’s participation in careers expos. During May, June and July, NESA participated in six regional and two metropolitan expos. These events are held annually across NSW to provide information and support to current and prospective students sitting the HSC, their parents and teachers.
If you have a student heading toward senior high school with questions, such as understanding how HSC marks are determined or choosing HSC subjects that align with their career goals, keep an eye out for these events toward the middle of next year. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions in person, buy HSC Exam Workbooks and be guided to the vast range of resources available through the NESA website.
Curriculum Reform update
Last term, we continued presentations for teachers, school executives and learning support personnel to develop a better understanding of the Disability Provisions program for students completing HSC exams. The presentations provided practical advice about how to submit an application and what’s required in terms of supporting documentation.
I encourage any families who have a child managing health challenges to see the story on the next page, which provides greater
The ongoing roll-out of new syllabuses continues this term, as part of our NSW Curriculum Reform program – the first major overhaul of curriculum in NSW in three decades.
These evidence-based reforms are all about building strong foundations for future learning, with a focus on knowledge-explicit curriculum design that will benefit teachers and their students.
With new English and Mathematics syllabuses in place in primary schools since the beginning of the year, July saw the remaining
Kindergarten to Year 6 syllabuses released to schools. We also released the final Years 7-10 Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) syllabus.
Thank you to our teachers, schools and the wider community who provided feedback for these world-class syllabuses that will change the way our children learn for generations to come.
I invite families to take a look at our Parent Guides, which are published after new syllabuses are released. They support families’ understanding of the new syllabuses, so you know more about your child’s learning experience. Find these along with syllabus introduction videos at https://curriculum.nsw. edu.au
Sharing student talent
The 2023 HSC Showcase Season, recognising the creativity and innovation of HSC students, will soon be wrapping up. The season consists of eight core events that celebrate outstanding projects from Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Technologies and English Extension 2 from the last HSC.
Whilst the events and exhibitions might be ending you can continue to explore many online. SHAPE virtual and TexStyle virtual allow you to take an online wander and see some of the incredible major works of 2023 HSC students in Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design. OnStage virtual, showcasing some of the very best HSC Drama students, can also be enjoyed for the remainder of the year.
For those who would like to see first-hand some of the incredible work that emerges from HSC Visual Arts’ students, the final ARTEXPRESS exhibition for this year will commence at the Cowra Regional Art Gallery on 18 August.
ARTEXPRESS 2024, featuring a selection of outstanding student work developed for the art-making component of the 2023 HSC Visual Arts exam, can also be viewed online. Visit: http://artexpress.vr.artsunit.nsw.edu.au
Paul Martin
Fragility of Life by Sarah McCullough, St John Bosco College Engadine, is featured in ARTEXPRESS, currently being exhibited online
HSC HELP MUSIC TO KIARA’S EARS
Supplied by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)
Tailored disability provisions enabled Kiara Resnis, who is vision impaired, to complete the HSC at Leumeah High School in 2023. She is now studying a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Music with minors in History and Creative Writing, at UNSW Sydney. Photo supplied by NESA
Being vision impaired was never going to stop Kiara Resnis, a keen student and musician, from tackling the Higher School Certificate (HSC) last year.
Access to a tailored set of disability provisions meant Kiara was able to undertake both written and practical exams in all her selected courses at Leumeah High School, in Sydney’s south-west.
“The teachers did all the applications and communicated with NESA [the NSW Education Standards Authority] in the leadup and once we got the provisions, they went through these with me to make sure I had what I needed,” Kiara said.
“I was happy with the level of support and the provisions – they absolutely helped me access the exams.”
Being vision impaired meant that many factors needed to be considered so Kiara could access both the written and practical HSC exams.
NESA worked closely with the Learning and Support team at Leumeah High School to
determine how, and to what extent, Kiara’s disability would impact her ability to make a fair attempt at the exams.
For the written exams, Kiara said she was provided with a braille device.
“My vision teacher was also allowed in with me to help set up the equipment and make sure the technology was working,” she said.
Extra examination time was granted to accommodate exam material, such as diagrams and pictures, and regular rest breaks were provided.
“I got an extra 15 minutes every half hour for Earth and Environmental Science because of the diagrams – they take a lot longer to feel – and extra time in my music component.”
Adam Matthews, a teacher at Leumeah High School, said: “Although the provisions required to support Kiara across her exams were extensive, the application process was comprehensive and easy to follow.”
After completing the HSC, Kiara commenced a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Music with minors in History and Creative Writing, at UNSW Sydney.
WHO GETS DISABILITY PROVISIONS?
All students in all school sectors can apply for HSC Disability Provisions, with documented evidence of the functional impact of their disability – it’s their legal entitlement.
Paul Martin, CEO of the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), said it is important that any student who needs disability provisions applies.
The number of students across all sectors receiving Disability Provisions has increased by 45% since 2020, with 10,426 students receiving this support in 2023.
“Over the past four years, NESA has strengthened the information available for schools and families about HSC Disability Provisions.
“Online workshops are available to all teachers in NSW, to provide advice and support to improve their understanding of the provisions.
“Keep in mind that students approved for Disability Provisions don’t receive any additional marks – the provisions don’t provide an advantage. They ensure students who need help to access the exams are able to participate and show what they know,” Mr Martin said.
All applications are rigorously reviewed
before being approved by NESA. This ensures provisions granted respond to each student’s specific learning, medical and psychological health needs that have an impact in exam situations.
Most applications for disability provisions open in Term 4, the year before a student’s HSC exams and close at the end of Term 1. This allows time for schools to gather relevant reports and evidence for the application.
Schools can apply for HSC provisions as early as Year 10 for disabilities whose impact doesn’t change, such as vision impairment, or physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy.
Depending on the nature of the disability, provisions can include additional time, support from a reader or writer in exams, access to toilet breaks, adapted furniture, braille or large-print papers, or support from an oral or sign interpreter.
As each student’s situation is unique, NESA considers the functional evidence provided for each student against standards and guidelines set out by a panel of specialists.
Find out more: https://www.nsw.gov. au/education-and-training/nesa/hsc/ disability-provisions
FOSTERING RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH EARLY EDUCATION
Supplied by Life Ed NSW
In today’s digital world, teaching kids about respectful relationships – both online and in person – is crucial. Most parents want their children to understand healthy boundaries in relationships, but many feel unprepared to have these tough conversations and need support.
A survey conducted by the NSW Department of Education of over 4,000 NSW parents and carers in 2021 found that a third feel uncomfortable having these talks, and almost half say they need help (https://bit. ly/parent-and-carer-survey).
Healthy Harold and a Life Ed Specialist Educator delivering respectful relationship education to students at Wisemans Ferry Public School, NSW. Photos supplied by Life Ed NSW
PUBLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS FOR 2025 NOW OPEN
Supplied by the Public Education Foundation
The Public Education Foundation (PEF) has just launched its scholarships for 2025. The Foundation’s scholarships identify and support potential, based on need, and individual excellence amongst students and educators in public schools across Australia.
The PEF is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing life-changing scholarships to young people in public education and enhancing the value and reputation of public schools.
We work in collaboration with schools, communities, unions, business and government to help students achieve their full potential and support teaching and learning excellence in the public education system.
Our scholarships help students overcome barriers to achievement created by social and economic disadvantage. We help students to cover the extra costs of public schooling and provide them with opportunities to extend their talents and pursue their aspirations. Our scholarships and awards also acknowledge and reward academic excellence.
For 2025 we have a range of scholarships that address specific areas of need:
• Scholarships for students with a refugee background.
• Primary school, secondary school and tertiary scholarships for Indigenous students.
• Scholarships for students in rural and remote areas.
Ed program showed that:
• 80% can explain and give examples of consent.
• 91% can recognise, react, and report unsafe or unwanted contact.
• 90% understand the positive and negative uses of online communication.
• 83% know the body cues that signal when they are unsafe.
Support for parents
Parents can support their children in learning about respectful relationships by fostering open and honest conversations. Here are some tips:
1. Make home a safe place for
• Scholarships for students with a physical disability.
• Scholarships for students with an interest in social justice.
• Scholarships for students transitioning to tertiary studies.
Check individual scholarships for the application opening and closing dates, at https://www.publiceducationfoundation.org. au/scholarships/students/
How to
apply
Apply online via our application portal at https://pef-apply.smapply.io/
For further information, please read the information available for each scholarship on the relevant pages and Scholarship Terms and Conditions at https://www. publiceducationfoundation.org.au/ scholarships/scholarships-and-awardsterms-and-conditions/
conversations: encourage kids to come to you with their questions and problems, using it as an opportunity to build trust and model open communication.
2. Star t early: introduce concepts of respectful relationships from a young age through simple conversations about friendships and interactions. Ask your child about the qualities they value in friends and the signs that friends care for and respect them.
3. Let conversations happen naturally: let conversations grow naturally from everyday experiences. For example, a scene in a TV show could start a discussion about respectful relationships.
Ask questions like “What do you think of that?”, “How would someone feel if they were treated like that?”, and “What could they have done better?”.
4. Keep the conversation ongoing: build upon the conversation over time, developing the trust needed for open discussions.
5. By wor king together, schools, parents, and community members can ensure children develop the skills and values necessary for respectful relationships.
For more information about Life Ed’s programs, visit https://bit.ly/lifeed-socialand-emotional-learning
Scholarship recipients at the Proudly Public! 2024 Awards. These annual awards, hosted by the Public Education Foundation, celebrate the exceptional commitment and achievement of students, teachers and principals in public schools. Photo: The Public Education Foundation
A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS
By
My name is Rhys Hibbert and I am a Year 11 student attending St Ives High School in Sydney. This year I am the Chair of the NSW Education Minister’s Student Voice Council, known as the DOVES (Department of Student Voices in Education and Schools). This is a NSW statewide student voice council that advocates for changes and improvements that we, the student body, would like to our public education system. The DOVES student representatives meet every month with NSW Department of Education executives. We also meet with the NSW Education Minister several times each year.
Last year I also founded my own charity, Donate for Life. I founded this charity because I want to help cancer patients by encouraging young people to start donating blood products, registering their stem cells on the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry (ABMDR), and registering on the national Organ Donor Registry, as a rite of passage when they turn 18 years old.
To achieve this, I have been advocating for this topic to be introduced into the NSW Education Curriculum. On 28 May this year, I was invited by the ABMDR to be a part of its team attending the World Blood Cancer Day event held at Parliament House in Canberra. I met many of the stakeholders involved
in this issue, including former patients, donors, charities, and of course Members of Parliament and even Ministers!
On 26-27 October this year I will be participating in The Hawkesbury Classic Paddle, a 111km overnight kayak from Windsor to Mooney Mooney on the Hawkesbury River in NSW (https://www. canoeclassic.net/). This event raises money and awareness for the Arrow Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation (https://arrow.org.au/ hawkesbury-canoe-classic-2024/).
Lifesaving treatment
My passion to help others has been driven by the effects of my early experiences in life. When I was 18 months old, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a blood cancer. The treatment involved six months of intense chemotherapy at the Cancer Centre for Children, at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, followed by regular monitoring of my health due to ongoing side effects of the treatment.
During my treatment process, I received over 25 blood transfusions, which saved my life. I saw that my father, being unable to donate blood because he had lived in the United Kingdom for more than six months between 1980 and 1996 (* see Footnote next page), set up an Australian Red Cross Lifeblood
Team for the families of patients to make group blood donations. This was an example of how advocacy can bring far greater results than the actions of an individual.
As a side-effect of my treatment, I also have hearing loss in the high frequencies. Until I received hearing aids, I found it hard to hear my friends and my teachers in a noisy classroom. This was another experience that taught me the importance of self-advocacy.
What DOVES means to me
Two years ago, I heard about the DOVES council and its goals, all of which strongly resonated with me. I realised that I could empower other students who might not have the confidence to speak up or even realise that they can advocate for themselves.
One of the DOVES proposals I have put forward is about introducing sun safety awareness in the NSW high school curriculum. Sun safety is a priority in primary schools, but this is not the case in high schools. My observation is that most high schoolers do not take sun safety seriously, which increases their chances of developing skin cancer later in life.
How to get involved
If you would like to learn more about Donate for Life, visit its website via the QR code at
Rhys Hibbert, Chair of the NSW Education Minister’s Student Voice Council (DOVES)
Rhys Hibbert, Chair of the NSW Education Minister’s Student Voice Council (DOVES) and founder of the charity Donate for Life, with NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning, The Hon. Prue Car MP, at the DOVES Annual General Meeting at NSW Parliament House earlier this year. Photos supplied by the NSW Department of Education
Rhys at Parliament House in Canberra for a World Blood Cancer Day event on 28 May this year
top left and Instagram page @rhysdonateforlife where you will also find templates, presentations and scripts to assist your Student Representative Council in creating fundraising events.
To learn more about the NSW Minister for Education’s Student Voice Council (the DOVES), visit its website via the QR code at left.
*Footnote: This rule was due to the UK outbreak of human variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) – a fatal disease that can incubate undetected in someone for many years. The rule for blood donation was changed in 2022 so these people can now give blood in Australia.
Rhys with the Nurse Unit Manager of Camperdown Ward at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, where he received cancer treatment when he was 18 months old
CELEBRATING CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Supplied by the NSW Department of Education Arts Unit
Each year, the NSW Public Schools Multicultural Playwright Program and the Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition for public primary schools showcase the remarkable talents and diverse perspectives of students across NSW, emphasising the value of cultural diversity and artistic expression in our communities.
The Multicultural Playwright Program
The NSW Public Schools Multicultural Playwright Program, presented by The Arts Unit, brings together students from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds for a unique creative experience. The program aims to nurture the creativity and language skills of secondary school students from refugee backgrounds and culturally diverse communities. The program has been running since 2014 with workshops held in Coffs Harbour and Sydney.
The participating students, representing a rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds from schools in their local areas, are given a platform to explore and showcase their artistic ideas and voices. This initiative not only celebrates cultural diversity but also provides an opportunity for students to collaborate, create, and share their art with a global audience. This is achieved with a performance, on the final day of each workshop, live streamed to their families and communities here in Australia, but also shared live with families from their home countries across the globe. These have included Germany, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Ghana, South Korea and New Zealand, to name a few.
The three-day program, involving collaboration with drama tutors and The Arts Unit staff, provides a space for students to express their perspectives and interests, emphasising the importance of embracing diverse voices in the realm of arts and culture.
“The program is just wonderful,” said one of the participating teachers. “The tutors were wonderful in the way they encouraged students to take part and in the way they scaffolded the learning so that it was digestible and fun.”
The program’s impact extends beyond the participating students, enriching their lives and highlighting the importance of providing opportunities to hear from diverse voices in the arts.
Public Speaking Competition
Similarly, the annual Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition
sees students from primary schools across NSW participate in delivering prepared and impromptu speeches, showcasing their oratory talents and understanding of multiculturalism.
The competition, supported by The Arts Unit and the NSW Department of Education’s Multicultural Education team, not only hones young students’ public speaking skills but also allows them to express their perspectives on multiculturalism.
In 2024, 2,018 speakers from 532 schools across the state are representing their communities and demonstrating what they have learned about the significance of their multicultural society.
According to one teacher, the benefits of the competition extend beyond these finalists, as many schools select their representative speakers after giving all of their students an opportunity to learn more about the diversity
Students taking part in The NSW Public Schools Multicultural Playwright Program workshops at Bankstown Civic Centre, Sydney in 2023. Photos supplied by the NSW Department of Education Arts Unit
Year 3 and Year 4 State Finalists at the 2023 Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking Competition Awards. The students are pictured with (at far left) Dr Sylvia Corish, NSW Department of Education (DoE) Executive Director, Student Support and Specialist Programs, and (at far right) Jordi Austin, NSW DoE Director, Arts Sport and Initiatives
of cultures and gain confidence in expressing these views at school final level.
Collaborate, create and share
The Playwright Program and the Public Speaking Competition not only celebrate cultural diversity but also provide platforms for students in Years 3-6 to collaborate, create, and share their art with a much broader audience. The programs foster an inclusive and empowering environment and reflect the importance of embracing and celebrating diverse voices in our communities. Their success shows the impact arts education has in nurturing creativity, confidence, and cultural appreciation among students.
A source of pride
Parents can take pride in supporting their children’s participation in such initiatives that not only enrich their lives but also contribute to a more inclusive and diverse society.
The P&C Federation of NSW is thrilled to announce a new partnership with XERO, a leading provider of accounting so ware. We have secured a special deal for all P&C Associations in NSW to access XERO’s powerful tools at a discounted price.
Your P&C Association will receive 25% o your Xero subscription and, if you join before 31 October 2024, you will receive 75% o the subscription for the first six months.
Our partnership with Xero also o ers set-up support and training through the Xero Central learning hub. Xero will be o ering a bespoke start-up webinar for P&C Associations that join.
This o er provides P&C Associations with a leading platform to handle their financial tasks, freeing up valuable time for volunteers to focus on their core mission of supporting schools and students.
Getting started with XERO is simple. Just scan the QR code at right and fill in a few details to express your interest and get connected with a member of the XERO team.
Any questions, contact our Member Services team on 1300 885 982 or email mail@pandc.org.au
Automate reconciliation
Xero s bank reconciliation automates coding all transactions going in and out of your P&C bank accounts, saving you time reconciling your accounts.
Online invoicing streamlines creating your invoices and getting paid fast.
Manage bills and receipts with Hubdoc
Invoice on the go and get paid faster Hubdoc will help you save time by automating h
and pay your bills.
Know your P&C and keep on top of Cashflow
Xero Analytics provides greater clarity on your short-term cash flow, so your P&C Association can thrive.
Pay your employees
Pay the correct amount, every time, helping to stay compliant using Xero Payroll.
Connect to over 1,000+ apps
The sky's the limit with the Xero’s open platform, connecting with 1,000+ other cloud solutions.
We’d love to hear what you think of the Parent & Citizen journal, published by the P&C Federation of NSW. Your feedback will help us improve and create an even better product for you. We’ve created a very short survey to gather your thoughts; it only takes a minute or two to complete. Please scan the QR code at right and tell us about your experience with the journal and what you’d like to see more of in future editions.
