NESA report 2017

ST SPYRIDON COLLEGE

Annual Report 2017

Educational & Financial Reporting To the NSW Educational Standards Authority (NESA)

June 2018

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NESA Educational & Financial Reporting. Annual Report 2017

Mission Statement “We promote educational excellence within a caring environment” At St Spyridon College we aim to educate our students to take their place in a rapidly changing world with confidence and success.

We endeavour to develop the whole person- strong in mind, healthy in body, endowed with love, faith and compassion, able to make a conscious and positive contribution to the well being of the broader community, our nation and our planet.

In this process we strive to provide them with the firm foundations of the Greek Orthodox Faith and Hellenic Ideals.

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The Seven Goals of the Strategic Plan

2017-2021 Goal1

Build students’ capacity to critically engage with complex concepts through learning experiences.

Goal 2

Develop multidisciplinary studies through actions.

Goal 3

Expand culture and languages programs.

Goal 4

Expand professional links of our educators with academic institutions – locally and globally and further enhance academic careers of our students.

Goal 5

Enhance communications and comply with all mandates.

Goal 6

Build reputation as a school that cultivates global citizenship for its students.

Goal 7

Develop and implement a Plan to incorporate new purpose built and conducive facilities to accommodate an enrolment of 960 students K minus 1 - Year 12 (460 K minus 1-Year 6 and 500 Years 7-12)

ΑΙΕΝ ΑΡΙΣΤΕΥΕΙΝ

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CONTENTS THEME 1:

INTRODUCTION

A message from the Chairman of the Board of Governors ............................................. 2 A message from our Head of College ...................................................................... 3 THEME 2: About our College ............................................................................................. 6 Characteristics of the student body ....................................................................... 11 THEME 3: ABOUT OUR STUDENTS Student Outcomes in Standardised National and Literacy Numeracy Testing .................... 13 THEME 4: SENIOR SECONDARY OUTCOMES (STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT) Higher School Certificate ................................................................................... 16 Record of School Achievement (RoSA) .................................................................... 17 THEME 5: OUR EDUCATORS Professional Learning ....................................................................................... 23 Teaching Standards .......................................................................................... 25 Teacher Attendance and Retention Rates K – 12 ....................................................... 25 THEME 6: WORKFORCE COMPOSITION ................................................................. 25 THEME 7: Student Attendance .......................................................................................... 28 Student Retention ............................................................................................ 28 Post School Destination in Secondary Schools ........................................................... 29 THEME 8: ENROLMENT POLICIES........................................................................ 31 THEME 9: OTHER SCHOOL POLICIES ................................................................... 34 THEME 10: SCHOOL DETERMINED PRIORITY AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT ........................ 37 THEME 11: INITIATIVES PROMOTING RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY ............................ 46 THEME 12: STUDENT/PARENT/TEACHER VOICES..................................................... 49 THEME 13: SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION ..................................................... 60 THEME 14: PUBLICATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................. 63

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NESA Educational & Financial Reporting. Annual Report 2017

THEME1: A message from the Chairman, Board of Governors A message from the Head of College

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A Message from the Chairman of the Board of Governors The education system is becoming much more complicated with an increasing emphasis on good governance to ensure the proper ethical operations of schools.

Our College has taken its responsibility openly and with pride as a school that is fortified on the Greek Orthodox faith and the strength of the democratic system born from Classical Greek thought.

With change being the only certainty, our teachers are constantly challenged. However, they embrace change as an opportunity for new learning experiences. This dynamic, future-focussed teaching and learning environment helps students to develop skills, knowledge, attitudes and perspectives to manage life’s challenges with faith, resilience and success. The high standard of our teachers and supporting staff is to the credit of the Head of College, Mrs Stefanou-Haag and her able allies, Deputy Head and Senior School Principal, Mrs Katsogiannis and Junior School Principal, Mrs Synesios. To our Parish Executive Officer/College Bursar, Mrs Christina Tsaconas, and her staff, the administration of the College is in strong and faithful hands.

The St Spyridon College’s mission is to educate our students to take their place in a rapidly changing world with confidence and success. It is the development of the whole person – strong in mind, healthy in body, endowed with love, faith, compassion, able to make a conscious and positive contribution to the well-being of our Australian community that will stamp their arrival.

It is the desire to solve the mysteries of the universe through a logical and innovative search for knowledge that is the most distinctive aspect of Hellenic thought.

Our rich diversity of 31 different cultural backgrounds and many religious backgrounds is the feature of the steely characteristics of the student body.

Our College continues to achieve at or above the National minimum standard in Literacy and Numeracy for Year 3, Year 5, Year 7, and Year 9. The post school destinations of our 2017 HSC students is worth highlighting, in that 90% of students have begun undergraduate degrees. Congratulations to all our HSC students of Year 2017.

Congratulations to our 2017 College Captain, Constantinos Kollias and he said, “leadership requires us to cultivate and pursue qualities such as patience, dignity and faith, not just possess them”; wise words from a determined young man. We are very fortunate that we have the able leadership of our P & F Committee in Erenie Bourdaniotis who has shown us what dedication and shared pride can do for our wonderful school. We thank all who offer their time and expertise so that we can continue to work with care and in unity with our College Community, as a team.

We express the gratitude of the Parish Board of Directors and the College Board of Governors to each of you for your continued faith and support of this mission to create through our ethos of developing the whole person, students for the benefit of our global community.

I commend to you this Annual Report of 2017, a story of success, positive results and hope for the future.

Con Livissianis President and Chairman of the Board

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A Message from the Head of College Based on Address at the K – 12 Awards Assembly–2017 Reverend Father Steven, Father Sotiri, Mr. Livissianis, parents, teachers, distinguished guests all, beloved students of years 3 to 12. In my turn I too, welcome you to the final Assembly of the 2017 school year.

We express our sincere thanks to all those who sponsor our Scholarships and Awards program. We welcome you as the VIPs of this Assembly, and gratefully acknowledge you in today’s program. We also thank our benefactors who are present here today.

Mr Livissianis and his Board of Directors and Board of Governors have commenced work on the new Infants school building. This will provide excellent facilities for our young children’s first experience of schooling, and enable us to realise a long term goal-to open our Kinder Minus 1 Centre. Our Leading Edge Centre will prepare children of 4 years old, for a smooth start to formal schooling. Thank you to our Board for your vision and hard work to take our school forward. Mrs Tsaconas we thank you for your services to the College in your capacity as PEO/College Bursar.

The members of the P & F Committee 2017 and our President Mrs Erenie Bourdaniotis have provided us with an excellent year of events. Our P&F contributes to creating a strong sense of belonging across the College, and builds shared pride in our whole community. Some highlight P & F events this year include the Palm Sunday Lunch, Mothers’ Day dinner, Father’s Day Doxology and Breakfast, and the very successful Walkathon. These and many other P&F activities, led to raising a spectacular total of $ 80,000. Congratulations P&F. It has been an excellent year of progress for our College, across all areas of endeavour. This morning I mention just a few: 300 Junior School students presented a spectacular production of Aesop’s Fables in this SPACe, while seven senior students sat for the HSC Classical Greek examinations in the technology wing. This year, Mrs Faletas’ team, has commenced the offer of Distance online courses in HSC Modern Extension, with Classical Greek also on offer.

The Senior School Showcase of 2017 was an outstanding event. Mr Anatoli Torjinski’s only explanation for our students’ gifts and talents in music and drama is that it is a consequence of our Hellenic heritage.

The Appreciating Culture Event exhibition, displayed fine artworks by students from years 3 – 12. On this occasion we launched the St Spyridon College Print, under whose emblem our teachers have already published original works.

As you all know, in sports we compete with schools that are two, and three and sometimes four times larger than us in numbers of enrolments. This has never been a problem for us. Our reputation in the ISA Competition is that we compete with confidence, skill and passion. And we succeed as teams and as individuals. We started ISA Cricket this year, much to delight of my fellow heads in the other schools. Our Sports Coordinators have every reason to be proud of these achievements. We acknowledge our Sports Captains Tina Ventoura and Peter Giokas.

Also for the first time this year, seven of our students embarked on an 18 day trip to the United States of America, for the NASA Space program, at the Space and Rockets centre, in Huntsville Alabama. In the words of one of the students, “Space camp opened our eyes to the world…the planets…stars and galaxies.”

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I think you all know that over 90% of our HSC classes qualify for university entrance in comparison to the state average of 33%. And we are quietly optimistic about the HSC results of the Class of 2017.

But all of these things would be as nothing, without the right values. His Eminence once called the students of St Spyridon College, people of faith, people of discipline, and people of tradition. We are proud to have you so named by our Archbishop my dear students. We want you to move through life with purpose and dignity, making the world a better place by your presence.

Our students this year have worked in the soup kitchen in Newtown, contributed to running the SNOG Ball, collected food for the Easter Appeal, visited nursing homes, raised funds, and participated in many, many other projects. Our students’ first and natural response is to step forward to give, to help, and to act for the greater good. Over and above any other achievement, this is the one that we your teachers and parents most value about you my dear students.

In leading this school community, the Principal of the Senior School Mrs Katsogiannis, and the Principal of the Junior School, Mrs Synesios, are my strongest allies. Father Steven has described what we do, together with our excellent teachers, as a sacred task. We thank you Father Steven, for your counsel, your wisdom and hard work over many years. And for reminding us to have patience, making this also your blessing for us with the words “ΚΑΛΕΣ ΥΠΟΜΟΝΕΣ”. We also thank you Father Sotiri for your goodwill, love and prayers.

A wise person once said that a school is but a voice in a chorus. As teachers and parents, our voice competes with a lot of dangerous nonsense out there. But our voice is strong here, because we sing together from the same hymn-book, as the saying goes- what we say at school, is echoed at home, and vice versa. Thank you to our parents.

The student leadership team of 2017 has been truly outstanding, raising the bar for any future leaders.

Constantinos Kollias as College Captain, together with the Vice-Captain Larissa Andrianakos, the Senior Prefect George Raptis and whole Prefect body, strengthened our global connections. They inspired younger students to renew Peita’s Remembrance Garden. They modelled what is best about this College in their own conduct, representing us in the best sense, as ambassadors for the College. You have been a powerful force in the life of our College. Everyone will remember and miss you, especially the Year 7s, because you took the time to greet them and speak to them every day. Thank you. We wish you, and indeed the whole of the Year 12 class of 2017 every success in your HSC results.

In closing we give thanks to God and our Patron St Spyridon for the good progress of our beloved students.

Mrs E. Stefanou-Haag Head of College

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THEME 2: ABOUT OUR COLLEGE STUDENT CHARACTERISTICS

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ABOUT OUR COLLEGE Developing the whole Person – Mind, Body and Soul At St Spyridon College, we educate our students to take their place in a rapidly changing world with confidence and success. We endeavour to develop the whole person- strong in mind, healthy in body, endowed with love, faith and compassion, able to make a conscious and positive contribution to the well-being of the whole community.

Academic performance is strong, with over 90% of Year 12 students continuing to Tertiary studies on completion of the HSC. To maximise HSC and ATAR results, the College offers scholarships for University Entrance, Junior School Dux, ACER scholarships for Year 7 and Year 10 entrance, as well as special programs, such as the HSC Winter Elevate and the Preparing for the Preliminary and HSC Courses. An excellent range of subjects provides access to three learning pathways: From school to University, from school to TAFE, from school to work.

The Junior School has a strong Literacy focus, using the Spalding Multisensory Language and Literacy program.

The Preparatory Middle School, leads to successful transition to Senior School studies. As an IPSHA and HICES member school, we participate in Music festivals, sporting competitions, leadership and other state-wide cultural activities.

Extensive co-curricular programs incorporate sports, the performing, spoken and visual arts. As a member of the Independent Sporting Association (ISA), St Spyridon offers students opportunities to compete at an elite sporting level. We are proud that St Spyridon students have represented the ISA, the State and Australia, in futsal, basketball, netball, gymnastics and swimming.

Based on two campuses, the College offers technology-rich environments and purpose-built facilities for Visual Arts, Hospitality, Information Communications and Technology (ICT), Woodwork, the Sciences, Music, Drama and Sports. The new Sports and Performing Arts Centre is a wonderful addition to our facilities.

Building Leadership Capacity in every student is the aim of our Pastoral Care program. The four pillars of 21st Education-learning to know, learning to do, learning to be, learning to live together, are strengthened by the cornerstone of learning to love. Our students’ community action takes them from hospices to soup-kitchens, where they develop sensitivity, conscience and a sense of responsibility for others. They engage with global issues and contribute enthusiastically to environmental and humanitarian aid programs. They participate in state, national and international youth forums, where they learn from and contribute to debate on current issues.

The College is situated on the doorstep of the City of Sydney and its proximity to beaches, universities, galleries, museums and the Harbour makes for a very rich learning environment.

St Spyridon College was established in 1983 and is the first Greek Orthodox College in New South Wales. Our students come from 20 different cultural backgrounds. We also have an international students program.

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Education’s Higher Purpose The purpose of schooling is to prepare students to manage futures that, due to rapid technological and social advances, we can neither pre-empt nor predict. At St Spyridon College, we do this by encouraging students to excel in all that they attempt. We provide an education that is academically rigorous and challenging. We believe that a strong sense of identity and self-worth are the basis for managing the challenges of life with confidence and success. Our pastoral care instils values that inspire our students to make a positive contribution to their school and the wider community.

The most distinctive aspect of Hellenic thought is the desire to solve the mysteries of the universe through a logical and innovative search for knowledge. As a Greek Orthodox school, we believe that we have a responsibility to promote the concept of a Thinking School. We give our students every support to fulfil their potential in their Learning Journey K-12.

Our programs are inspired by the four pillars of education as identified by the UNESCO International Report on Education for the 21st century, “Learning; the Treasure Within’: Learning to Know; Learning to Do; Learning to Live Together; and Learning to Be These four pillars support what we believe is essential for a fulfilling life and the ultimate purpose of our endeavours here at St Spyridon College – Learning to Love.

Students need to have a sense of belonging in order to embark on an “inner voyage” where they develop faith, resilience, sense of purpose and responsibility. In partnership with parents, we endeavour to make their journey both challenging and joyous.

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Affiliations and Memberships 1.

Independent Schools Council of Australia (ISCA)

The Independent Schools Council of Australia (ISCA) represents the interests of the independent school sector on a national basis such as in relation to Commonwealth funding and representation on national policy making bodies. Its eight Member State and Territory Associations of Independent Schools represent a sector with 1,007 schools and 441,455 full-time equivalent (FTE) students, 13 percent of all school enrolments in Australia. Mrs Stefanou-Haag, Head of College, and Mrs Christina Tsaconas, Parish Executive Officer, are members of this prestigious National Council.

2.

The Association of Independent Schools of New South Wales

(AISNSW)

The AIS is the umbrella organisation that serves the interests of all independent schools in the State. It guards the rights of member schools to expound their particular philosophy and also protects the rights of parents to choose the kind of education they want for their children. The Association renders advice to member schools on all legal and administrative matters related to education, and ensures that our school’s voice is heard on significant issues affecting the education of our students. Mrs Stefanou is on the AIS Employment Relations Committee chaired by Judge Rothman. Mrs Stefanou is also a member of the AIS Advisory Council.

3.

Greek Orthodox Board of Education

(GOBE)

This Board is chaired by His Grace Bishop Seraphim of Apollonias. Membership includes the Heads, the Parish President/Board Chairman and a Reverend Father from each College and Parish. Its aims include the coordination of whole Archdiocese events and the furthering of the interests of all schools in the sector. Mrs A. Katsogiannis (Principal Senior School)is the Executive Officer of the Board.

4.

AIS Research Project Team

The St Spyridon School Team comprises of Mrs E Stefanou-Haag, Mrs A Katsogiannis, Ms G Kokinelis, Mr A Condous, Mrs L McCoy and Mr A Picardi.

This team is responsible for the development of new knowledge on values education, through school based research within and across three schools of diverse cultures, faiths and traditions – Rouse Hill Anglican School, Masada College and St Spyridon College.

5.

Association of Heads of Independent Schools in Australia

(AHISA)

Mrs Stefanou-Haag is a member of AHISA. This is the peak body of Independent Schools Heads in Australia. The NSW Branch meets four times per year. The Association exists as a means by which Heads may meet for the exchange of information.

6.

Heads of Co-educational Independent Schools

(HICES)

Mrs Stefanou-Haag is a member of HICES. This body provides a medium for providing opportunities for school participation in leadership training and the organisation of such events as athletics, swimming, diving, crosscountry, music and special ability events.

Mrs Synesios, Principal Junior School is a member of HICES Primary Schools. Mrs Katsogiannis, Principal Senior School is a member of HICES Senior Schools. In 2017 Mrs Stefanou-Haag was also a member of the HICES Conference subcommittee.

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7.

Independent Primary Schools Heads Association of Australia

(IPSHA)

This forum avails the Junior School Heads with opportunities to interact at the State and National levels.

Benefits for our College include: access to travelling art displays, participation in music festivals, sharing in sporting and cultural activities, and development of professional fellowship. Mrs Synesios is a member of the IPSHA Principals Group.

8.

All Suburbs Independent Schools Sports Association

(ASISSA)

ASSISA is strictly a sporting body that includes Athletics, Swimming and Cross Country Carnivals as well as competitive sport for the Year 6 students.

Member Schools include: Arkana College Emanuel School International Grammar School Macquarie Anglican Grammar School Moriah College Mt Sinai College Redeemer Baptist School St Andrew’s Cathedral School St Mark’s Coptic Orthodox College

9.

Independent Sporting Association (ISA)

St Spyridon College is a member of the ISA. Weekly competitive games are played on a Saturday.

The ISA is a highly reputable a sporting body, made up of the following member schools: St Pius X College

St Paul’s Grammar

Chevalier College

St Stanislaus College

Oxley College

Blue Mountains Grammar

SCECGS Redlands

St Patrick’s College

St Andrew’s Cathedral School

St Spyridon College

Central Coast Grammar

St Augustine’s School

All Saints Bathurst

Barker College

Kinross Wolaroi

Oakhill College

Scots Bathurst

Snowy Mountains Grammar

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The Junior School

The Junior School campus is located in Kingsford. It offers: 

Strong Literacy focus using Spalding Multi-Sensory Language Literacy Programme.



Exemplary programmes that promote personal development; study skills; community service; and global connections.



Highly qualified caring teachers committed to excellence.



A rich Co-curricular Programme, offering a variety of competitive and House sports, creative and performing arts and thinking skills development.



Programmes that incorporate critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal and team skills.



Prep Middle School programme for Years 5 and 6 preparing students for a successful transition to Senior School.



Specialist teachers in Gifted and Talented, Physical Education and Sports, Information Technology, Greek Language, Greek Dance, Music, Learning Support and Student Welfare Adviser.



Interschool sporting competitions through ASISSA and HICES.

The Senior School

The Senior School is located in Maroubra. It offers: 

Exemplary

Academic

and

Pastoral

Care

Programmes

that

promote

academic achievement;

personal development; student leadership; community service; and global connections. 

Unique Higher School Certificate Academic Elevation programmes. Some of the many initiatives implemented to support students to maximize their HSC results include: HSC ACER, Dux and University Scholarships; Bursaries; Careers Advice, Academic Elevation Courses.



Access to three different learning pathways – School to University; School to TAFE; and School to Work.



Saturday Sporting competition through membership of the Independent Sporting Association (ISA) leading to elite State and National representation.



Co-curricular Programmes, incorporating a variety of House sports, creative and performing arts and thinking skills development.



Highly qualified caring teachers committed to excellence.



Small class sizes.

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CHARACTERISTICS OF STUDENT BODY A Rich Diversity of Backgrounds St Spyridon students come from 31 different cultural backgrounds. The range of countries of origin of St Spyridon families includes:

Australia

Egypt

Iraq

Poland

Brazil

Fiji

Israel

Romania

Canada

Georgia

Italy

Russia

China

Germany

Lebanon

Serbia

Columbia

Greece

Malaysia

Turkey

Croatia

India

Nepal

United Kingdom

Cyprus

Indonesia

New Zealand

United States of America

Czech Republic

Iran

Peru

Zimbabwe

In terms of religious backgrounds, over 90% are Orthodox. A variety of other faith backgrounds are represented in our College including Catholic, Anglican and other Christian faiths, as well as Buddhist, Druze, Hindu, Islam and Jewish.

International students add to this rich tapestry.

Over 40% of our families live further than 12 kilometres away from the school.

25th March Commemoration

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THEME 3:

STUDENT OUTCOMES IN STANDARDISED NATIONAL AND LITERACY NUMERACY TESTING THEME 4: SENIOR SECONDARY OUTCOMES (STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT)

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STUDENT OUTCOMES IN STANDARDISED NATIONAL AND LITERACY NUMERACY TESTING NAPLAN Results 2017

Proportion of students in Years 3 and 5 achieving at or above the National Minimum Standard 2017 NAPLAN Test

Literacy (Overall)

Percentage of students at or above the National minimum standard Year 3 (44) Year 5 (52) School State-wide School State-wide 100

98

100

94.6

o

Reading

100

96

100

95.5

o

Writing

100

98.4

100

94.5

o

Spelling

100

96.9

100

95

o

Grammar & Punctuation

100

94

100

93.7

100

96.6

99

96.6

Numeracy (Overall) o

Number, P&A

100

96.5

98

96.4

o

Measurement, Data, Space &

100

96.8

100

96.9

Geometry

Year 3: We are very pleased that: o

100% of Students in Year 3 who sat NAPLAN achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Literacy.

o

100% of Students in Year 3 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Numeracy.

Year 5: We are very pleased that: o

100% of Students in Year 5 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Literacy.

o

99% of Students in Year 5 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Numeracy.

Year 4 award recipients

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Proportion of students in Years 7 and 9 achieving at or above the National Minimum Standard 2017 NAPLAN Test

Percentage of students at or above the National minimum standard Year 7 (89) School

State-wide

Year 9 (62) School

State-wide

Literacy o

Reading

99

94.8

98

94.4

o

Writing

100

91,3

97

83.9

o

Spelling

100

95.3

100

93.8

o

Grammar & Punctuation

97

92.2

98

91.5

Numeracy o

Number Patterns and Algebra

100

96.6

97

97.7

o

Measurement, Data, Space &

100

95.5

100

97

Geometry

Year 7: We are pleased that 99% of Students in Year 7 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Literacy and that as individuals students showed significant growth in their achievement.

We are pleased that 100% of Students in Year 7 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Numeracy and that as individuals students showed significant growth in their achievement.

Year 9 We are pleased that 98% of Students in Year 9 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Literacy and that as individuals students showed significant growth in their achievement.

We are pleased that 99% of Students in Year 9 achieved at or above the National minimum standard in Numeracy and that as individuals students showed significant growth in their achievement.

Further comparative information on these tests can be found on http://www.myschool.edu.au.

Year 7 award recipients

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LIFE AT THE JUNIOR SCHOOL

Book Week Grandparents Day

Superhero Day – to raise money for The Royal Flying Doctors Service

Years 3 & 4 Camp Easter Focus Week

Playing AFL

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Performing Annie at the IPSHA Performing Arts Festival Sydney Town Hall 15

Higher School Certificate 100% of students attained their HSC. Hospitality VET and Information and Digital Technology VET were offered at school. 10 out of 59 (17%) students studied these courses.

Total Number of Students

HSC 2017

Performance Band achievement by % Band 3-6

Band 1-2

School

State-wide

School

State-wide

Ancient History

14

71

80

29

20

Biology

12

75

87

25

13

Business Studies

31

97

86

3

14

Chemistry

10

100

90

0

10

Drama

7

100

98

0

2

Economics

9

67

92

33

8

English (Standard)

24

87

86

13

14

English (Advanced)

34

100

98

0

2

English as a Second Language

1

100

82

0

18

Food Technology

6

100

80

0

20

Geography

7

100

88

0

12

Information Processes and Technology Legal Studies

5

100

80

0

20

28

100

90

0

10

Mathematics General 2

20

90

74

10

26

Mathematics

26

92

91

8

9

Modern History

10

100

86

20

14

Music 1

7

100

98

0

2

Personal Dev. Health & P.E.

7

100

81

0

19

Physics

7

100

88

0

12

Visual Arts

10

100

99

0

1

Classical Greek

5

100

100

0

0

Modern Greek Continuers

12

100

95

0

5

Serbian Continuers

1

100

100

0

0

Hospitality (VET)

5

100

79

0

21

Information and Digital Technology

5

100

79

0

21

Performance Band achievement % HSC 2011 - 2017

Total Number of Students

Band 3 - 6 School

State-wide

Band 1 - 2 School State-wide

2017

59

95

88

5

12

2016

59

95

90

5

10

2015

37

94

89

6

11

2014

42

96

90

4

10

2013

47

96

88

4

12

2012

38

98

89

2

11

2011

56

91

89

9

11

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Educational & Financial Reporting\NESA Annual Report 2017

Performance Band achievement by number and % HSC 2017

Total Number of Students

Band E4-E3 School State-wide

Band E1-E2 School State-wide

English Extension 2

1

100

77

0

23

English Extension 1

7

100

93

0

7

Mathematics Extension 1

12

83

82

17

18

Mathematics Extension 2

2

50

84

50

16

History Extension 1

3

100

80

0

20

Classical Greek Extension 1

1

100

95

0

5

Modern Greek Extension 1

6

100

100

0

0

Please note:  

Band 6 is the highest band and Band 1 the lowest E4 is the highest band and E1 the lowest

RoSA No Record of School Achievement credentials were awarded in 2017.

Goldstein Award recipient

ACER Scholarships Year 11 2018 winners Educational & Financial Reporting\NESA Annual Report 2017

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HSC CLASS OF 2017-HIGHLIGHTS In 2017, 59 students sat for the Higher School Certificate Examinations (HSC) across 34 courses.

There were also 11 accelerant students from Year 11. They studied Modern Greek Continuers, Modern Greek Extension 1. We congratulate our students on their achievements and wish them well in their tertiary studies and future life choices.

Highlights include: 

George Raptis ATAR 99.20, NESA HSC All Round Achiever, Professor Manuel Aroney Award and University Scholarship recipient.



Constantinos Kollias ATAR 97.95, NESA HSC All Round Achiever and University Scholarship recipient



Keti Bull ATAR 96.05.



Tina Ventoura ATAR 93.90.



Sabrina Hijazi ATAR 93.50.



Kerryanne Syros ATAR 93.00



Marina Dionysiou ATAR 92.25.



Joel Richardson ATAR 90.50.



Nikola Pechanats, First in Course Serbian Continuers, NESA Top Achiever



Margarita Psaras, NESA Top Achiever, 4th Modern Greek Continuers.



14% of students with an ATAR over 90.



15% of students have results 90% and above in a given course.



Out of 59 students 45% have results 80% and above in a given course.

The Sydney Morning Herald School Ranking of 109th put us in the top 18% of schools in NSW.

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OUR EDUCATORS THEME 5:

Professional Learning Teaching Standards Teacher Attendance and Retention Rates K – 12

THEME 6: Workforce Composition

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OUR PRINCIPLES AS EDUCATION PROFESSIONALS We the teachers of St Spyridon College are united in our efforts to provide an education for our students which models respect and love for young people. We demonstrate this in our responses to each student and in our interactions with each other.

We are critical to our students’ academic, spiritual, moral, social and physical development.

The Mission of our College, guides and informs our teaching and learning practices. At a fundamental level we actively promote the Greek Orthodox ethos of our College.

We actively promote professional dialogue and robust educational debate that leads to more effective teaching and learning. We embrace professional evaluation and accountability.

As a group of education professionals we critically reflect on our practice and demonstrate our commitment to lifelong learning. We enlist appropriate collegiate support to further our professional growth and development. We embrace change as an opportunity for new learning experiences.

We endeavour to create a dynamic, future-focussed teaching and learning environment within which students can embrace challenges, take initiative, take risks and develop into active, independent learners. We expect and reward high effort. As individuals and as members of teams we: · Develop students’ critical thinking, through diverse, challenging and engaging learning experiences that develop students’ ability to: - Contemplate problems and create solutions - Exercise judgement and analyse different perspectives on the same issue - Challenge those things that offend their sense of justice - Make connections between related concepts - Distinguish fact from opinion, bias and manipulation - Distinguish between cause and effect - Work productively with others for the benefit of their own learning, the group, the community and the global community of which they are an active part. · Recognise the good in each person and demonstrate respect, compassion and forgiveness for students and each other. · Support colleagues by fulfilling our own professional responsibilities to a high level.

No one can guarantee the happiness and success of another human being. Nevertheless, in a rapidly changing world where change is the only certainty, we hope that the endeavour described above will help students to develop skills, knowledge, attitudes and perspectives to manage life’s challenges with faith, resilience and success.

Formulated in 2001 – Updated in June 2006 by Educators K-12

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SENIOR SCHOOL STAFF 2017

JUNIOR SCHOOL STAFF 2017

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PROFESSIONAL LEARNING As may be seen from the Principles of our Educators the College has a strong commitment to Professional Learning and reflective practice. Our Teachers are involved in professional associations and provide leadership to NSW educational forums.

AIS NSW is a major provider of professional learning for teachers and Executive staff.

Participating Summary of Professional Learning

Teams and

2017

Individuals

Strategic Plan 2017-2021

K-12 team

Mandated Policies and Principles as Education Professionals

K-12 team

CPR, Anaphylaxis & Asthma

K – 12 team

Work Health Safety

K – 12 Team

Executive Leadership

3

ICT

3

Greek Orthodox Ethos in Education

K – 12 team

Learning Support/Special Education

4

Building Capacity – High Order Thinking

12

Curriculum – Specific

K – 12 Team

Pastoral Care and Student Leadership

K – 12 Team

Values in Education (AIS School Based Research Project)

6

HSC Marking/Judging/Examiner

10

The average expenditure on professional learning in 2017 was $1850 per Teacher.

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PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS TO WHICH EDUCATORS BELONG AHISA Australian Head of Independent Schools in Australia AIS NSW Association of Independent Schools NSW ATESOL Teachers of English as a Second Language ACHPER Aust. Council of Health, PE & Recreation CAANSW Careers Advisers Association NSW Children’s Book Council Drama Teachers NSW EBE Economics Business Education Assoc English Teachers’ Association Food Facts Nutrition Australia Nutridate Greek Orthodox Board of Education History Teachers’ Association HICES Heads of Independent Coeducational Schools HICES Junior School Heads of Independent Co-educational Schools ISTE International Society of Technology in Education ISA Independent Sporting Association ISCA Independent Schools Council of Australia IPSHA Independent Primary Schools Heads of Australia IPSHA Umbrella Groups: Deputies, Infants Co-ordinator, Curriculum Co-ordinators, G&T, ICT, Learning Support Teachers, Librarians, Debating , Music Teachers, Art Teachers, PDHPE Teachers, New Scheme Teachers, Sports Convenors and IPSHA Early Childhood Education Teachers.

LTA Legal Studies Teacher Association MANSW Mathematics Association of NSW New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) Primary English Teacher’s Association SPELD Specific Learning Difficulties STANSW Science Teachers Association Australian Association of Special Education Inc. The above represents a list of some of the organisations to which our educators belong.

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TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS Category

Teachers who have teaching qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as recognised within the National Office

Number of Teachers Junior Senior School School

Total K – 12

25

38

63

0

3

3

of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) guidelines.

Teachers who have qualifications as a graduate from a higher education institution within Australia or one recognised within the AEI-NOOSR guidelines but lack formal teacher education qualifications.

TEACHER ATTENDANCE AND RETENTION RATES K - 12 

In 2017 the average daily staff attendance rate was 97%.



The proportion of staff retained from 2016 is 98%.

The very high level of attendance and retention is one indication of educators’ satisfaction with commitment to the College, and its ethos and organisational culture.

100% of absences are accounted for.

WORKFORCE COMPOSITION The school’s workforce presents a rich diversity of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Our teachers and other staff are equipped with high level qualifications, expertise, professionalism and commitment to quality outcomes for students.

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S TA F F A N D S T U D E N T S

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THEME 7: Student Attendance Student Retention Post School Destinations in Secondary Schools

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STUDENT ATTENDANCE The school implements policy and procedures for the management of student non-attendance.

Attendance checking procedures enable the identification and provision of assistance to students with unsatisfactory attendance.

An SMS notification is sent to parents of students who are absent in the Senior School. The school follows up where written explanation of absence is not received from parents.

We are pleased to report that the daily attendance rate for students in 2017 was 96%. This was the same as the daily attendance rate in 2016. 100% of absences were explained.

Year Level

Annual Attendance Rate %

Kindergarten

95

Year 1

93

Year 2

93

Year 3

95

Year 4

99

Year 5

93

Year 6

96

Year 7

99

Year 8

99

Year 9

97

Year 10

97

Year 11

97

Year 12

92

This high level of attendance demonstrates strong teacher and pastoral care culture of our College.

STUDENT RETENTION OF YEAR 10 TO YEAR 12 We are pleased that at St Spyridon College in 2017 there was a retention rate from Years 10 to 12 of 97%. This is similar to previous years.

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POST SCHOOL DESTINATIONS

DESTINATIONS OF YEAR 12 CLASS OF 2017

Undergraduate Degrees 90%

TAFE/APPRENTICESHIPS 10%

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE DESTINATIONS

13%

11%

UNSW USYD ACU MACQ U WSU UTS other NDU

16% 7%

13% 24% 7%

9%

UNSW - University of NSW USYD - University of Sydney ACU - Australian Catholic University MACQ – Macquarie University WSU – University of Western Sydney UTS - University of Technology Sydney NDU – University of Notre Dame OTHER – Wollongong, Canberra, Scotland

DESTINATION BY COURSE TYPE COMMERCE/BUSINESS

20% 3%

8% 22%

21%

ENGINEERING/ARCHITECTU RE/CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION ARTS/COMMUNICATION

16%

10%

LAW IT SCIENCE/MEDICAL SCIENCE

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THEME 8: ENROLMENT POLICIES

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ENROLMENT POLICIES Enrolment Policy and Procedures All applications for enrolment are accompanied by: 

Birth Certificate



Baptismal Certificate (where applicable)



Reference by priest (where applicable)



Report / Profile from School, Preschool or Child Care Centre (as applicable).

All other things being equal, priority is given to siblings, children of Alumni, of Orthodox families, of clergy of canonical Orthodox Churches, of Parish Board, members of staff, as well as benefactors’ children & grandchildren (identified by a confirmation letter from the Parish).

Entry into St Spyridon College is based on an assessment or academic entrance examinations, reports, references and interview with the Principal. A student’s track record including academic performance, attendance, behaviour and general conduct will be considered in making a decision to accept an enrolment.

In making a decision to accept a student, their academic ability, behaviour and the welfare and safety of other students, and whether the student can be provided with an appropriate education program will be major factors. Information will be sought from previous education institutions, including child care centres, preschools, schools and past reports and specialist practitioners.

1.

Kindergarten Entry

A Kindergarten school entry assessment is conducted, to attest to the child’s readiness to commence formal schooling includes: 

Oral communication skills



Literacy (print concepts, letter identification, phonemic awareness, sight words)



Fine motor skills / physical development



Social behaviours, interaction skills and emotional maturity



Information from Reports/Portfolio profiles from pre-entry institutions



Information from reports from other professionals, for example Psychologists/ therapists.

2.

Kindergarten Cut-off dates

At the Kindergarten level, the cut-off date for the year of entry is the 31st May. Enrolments are processed in order of receipt, and maintaining a balance of boys and girls. For priority to be given at the Kindergarten level, applications must be received in the first year after birth.

3.

Acceptance Agreement

Placement offers are made to parents in writing. To accept a placement, parents must return a signed Acceptance Agreement, which outlines their commitment to paying all fees and charges, and their agreement to support the school’s policies, ethos and culture. The Acceptance Agreement must be accompanied by the requisite enrolment fees.

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4.

Progression to Upper School

During Year 10 and to progress to the next level of schooling for Years 11 and 12 students will need to formally submit an Expression of Interest in continuing their education at St Spyridon College. The application should be made after giving consideration to the commitment that this entails.

All students who meet the following criteria will be invited to continue their Years 11 and 12 studies at St Spyridon College: 

Apply diligence and sustained effort to their studies.



Complete set assignments in the set time, and to a standard that: -

meets course requirements

-

reflects a student’s best effort



Attend all classes unless able to provide relevant documentation to explain absence.



Abide by the Student Principles and follow the school’s Code of Conduct.



Support activities and programs that enhance the school’s ethos and culture.

Students who accept the invitation to continue their studies at the College will sign an Acceptance Agreement that is co-signed by parents.

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THEME 9: OTHER SCHOOL POLICIES

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SCHOOL POLICIES The following policies and procedures were in place (or developed) during 2016 to manage a Safe and Supportive Environment:

Policy

Changes in 2017

Access to Full Text

STUDENT WELFARE

Personnel Policies and

Child Protection Policy encompassing:

Procedures Handbook 1



Policy statement



Protocols than enhance ethos and culture

Updated protocols to

Professional conduct in relation to

include statements on

Child Protection

appropriate use of



Definitions and concepts

technology.



Legislative requirements



Child Protection Legislation



Amendment Bill 2003 (Provided by the AIS) 

Child Protection Procedures



Investigation process



Reporting and investigating “reportable conduct”



Procedural fairness



Documentation



Appendices

STUDENT WELFARE

Work Health and Safety

Security Policy encompassing:

Teacher Handbook 3.



Work Health and Safety Policy including:



Rationale



Code of Practice



Policy statement



Management procedure



12 systems specified by the AIS guidelines



Students Acceptable Use of Information and Communications

Updated procedure to include BYOD sign-on for Year 12 students.

Form disseminated to Year 12 students

Policy Parent handbook 2017 Disability Policy

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Policy

Changes in 2017

Access to Full Text

STUDENT WELFARE Supervision Policy encompassing:

Personnel Handbook 1

 Roles and responsibilities of Teacher  Attendance  Punctuality  Staff absence  Duty of care  Duty of care and student attendance  Duty of care and supervision  Negligence  Yard Duty  Keys and security

STUDENT WELFARE

Teacher Handbook 2

Pastoral Care Policy encompassing:

Managing Positive

 Attendance

Learning Environments

 Managing a positive learning

(MAPLE)

environment  Rewarding the good  The pastoral care system  Availability of and access to special services such as counselling  Health care procedures  Home study policy  Progression through schooling  Leadership

STUDENT WELFARE

Teacher Handbook 2

Discipline & Resolving Grievances

(MAPLE)

Codes of Conduct Policy encompassing:  Our principles as St Spyridon

Students Study Planner

 Education Professionals

2017

 Our principles as St Spyridon College students

Parent Handbook 2017

 Code of conduct for students  Classroom behaviour management  Consideration for ethical behaviour management

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Policy

Changes in 2017

Access to Full Text

 Statement on Procedural fairness

 Statement bullying and harassment Teacher Handbook 2017  College policy prohibits corporal punishment and does not sanction its

Updated to include

Parent Handbook 2017

statement on cyberbullying.

use by anyone

Communication Policy encompassing:

Parent Handbook 2017

 Formal and informal mechanisms that

Study Planner 2017

facilitate communication between the school and those with an interest in the students’ education and well-being  Communication with parents section in Student Planner and Parent Handbook  Newsletter (fortnightly)  Flyers, Bulletins and notes to parents  Direct correspondence  Parent/Teacher interviews  Study Planner for two way notes  Parent/Teacher meeting  Communication within the school:  Staffroom whiteboards  Study Planner – key dates and major events  Pigeon holes  Telephone messages  Email  Staff and team meetings Anti-bullying “Demeaning or intimidating behaviour towards others, which constitutes bullying and harassment whether verbal or physical or electronic, (otherwise described as cyber bullying) is most unacceptable in the context of a Greek Orthodox college.” (Code of Conduct Study Planner 2017). The full text of the school’s policy and procedures on Bullying and Harassment is in the Parent Handbook, Teacher Handbook 2.

Prohibitions on Corporal Punishment College policy expressly prohibits corporal punishment of students by staff. The College does not sanction the administering of corporal punishment by any non-school person, including parents, to enforce discipline at the school. (from Parent Handbook 2015 and Study Planner 2017).

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THEME 10: SCHOOL DETERMINED PRIORITY AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

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The Seven Goals of the Strategic Plan

2017-2021 Goal1

Build students’ capacity to critically engage with complex concepts through learning experiences.

Goal 2

Develop multidisciplinary studies through actions.

Goal 3

Expand culture and languages programs.

Goal 4

Expand professional links of our educators with academic institutions – locally and globally and further enhance academic careers of our students.

Goal 5

Enhance communications and comply with all mandates.

Goal 6

Build reputation as a school that cultivates global citizenship for its students.

Goal 7

Develop and implement a Plan to incorporate new purpose built and conducive facilities to accommodate an enrolment of 960 students K minus 1 - Year 12 (460 K minus 1 - Year 6 and 500 Years 7-12)

ΑΙΕΝ ΑΡΙΣΤΕΥΕΙΝ

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Targets for 2017 1

Each Team implement, assess, evaluate and report on an initiative that builds students’ capacity as outlined in detail for Goal 1.

2

Develop and Implement a policy and a format for submitting draft essays in English Years 11 and 12 classes that targets student responses to teacher feedback.

3

Hold a successful Appreciating Culture Event for the launch of the new Strategic Plan and the St Spyridon Print (publications) on the 7th June.

4

Establish a new and robust ISA Cricket program that will grow stronger with each year and contribute to our school’s changing profile.

5

Develop a new framework for Scholarships as distinct from the Awards and Prizes scheme.

6

Improve significantly the reliability and effectiveness of our communications networks for students, teachers and parents.

7

Commence new “Global Citizens and Leaders” Program (High Resolves) at Years 7 and 8 with a view to progress to Year 11.

8

Comply with all mandated responsibilities in regard to New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), and other government authorities in order to deliver quality education, manage risk, and secure per capita funding.

9

Make progress on the new Infants building and utilise this project to revitalise the profile and brand of our Junior School, with the establishment of the K minus 1 program.

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1

Build students’ capacity as outlined in detail for Goal 1.

JUNIOR SCHOOL Festival of Learning This year’s “A World of Possibilities” celebrated the gains made at the Junior School in terms of building student’s capacity through critical and collaborative learning and by engaging with and through the events and issues that have occupied human thought through time. The learning intentions are articulated at the beginning of the lesson and students are expected to engage at a higher level. Much of the knowledge based learning and drill and practice has been relegated to homework.

Infants Literacy The MiniLit program developed by Macquarie University was administered to students in Year 1 at risk of not achieving expected levels in Literacy, and to those identified as at risk in Kindergarten. The program was delivered by the Infants Support Teacher and teacher’s aide this year. Such was the success of the program that most of the students identified at risk at the beginning of the year are now working above expected levels for their age. This ensures that students will be able to keep up with the demands of the following year thanks to the systematic and daily instruction provided.

Mathematics Under Mr Dookie’s mentorship, one staff member from each Primary grade was responsible for leading the Mathematics for their grade. The purpose was to develop divergent thinking and critical problem solving. The significant change in classrooms is that students are engaging with more complex, non-routine mathematical problems requiring multistep solutions. They applied this new thinking in the following competitions: 

Of the 79 students that participated in the ICAS Mathematics Competition, we were able to produce a High Distinction, 5 Distinctions and 38 Credits. Another 30 students were awarded Proficiency certificates because they were a few marks short of the Credit cut off.



A team of Year 6 students were selected to participate in the Maths Cup. This event is targeted to students that are precocious in the mathematical domain.



All students in Years 5 & 6 are enrolled to participate in the Maths Games which is hosted by the Australasian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiad. These activities aim to test the students in the area of critical problem-solving. Students who show exceptional ability are chosen to participate in the Mathematics Olympiad.



Students in Years 5 & 6 who have demonstrated ‘giftedness’ in the various domains and intelligences, took part in GATeway8 a competition with other schools where they had to work in teams to complete a range of activities.

Opportunities to engage with Critical Thought and to Build Student’s Capacity for Learning 

Years 3- 6 participating in ICAS Digital Technologies, English and Mathematics Competitions. Our students fared well in these assessments, achieving Distinctions and Credits in all three disciplines.

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Diagnostic work was done by staff last year to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses and then used these to inform programming for this year yielding a significant bridging of misconceptions. 

Across K – 6 much work has been done to enrich the reading and writing strands so that students engage more meaningfully with concepts around the Big Human Ideals and how to express themselves in the clearest way possible.

SENIOR SCHOOL Space camp In the September school holidays 7 students from Years 9/10 along with Ms Kokinelis and Dr Srinivasan, and 29 other students from different schools attended Space camp as organised by LAZSTA iSTEM. The trip provided all participants with unique experiences and opportunities to deepen their understanding of being part of a global community and develop clearer knowledge of themselves. Pre-camp activities in New York and Washington, visiting museums, iconic sites and buildings were a fitting prelude to what was to come. The Space Camp Program run by the U.S. Space and Rocket Centre in Huntsville Alabama was the ultimate educational experience. It illuminated real world applications of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students worked as a team and confronted mission scenarios that required dynamic problem solving and critical thinking - 21st century learning skills that are required in today and future workplaces.

Students obtained first-hand knowledge and understanding in the field of space exploration through visiting various museums, and interacting with peers, teachers and presenters from diverse backgrounds and expertise. They experienced not only in the technological advances that lead to various space missions, but also historical perspectives of World War II and the birth of American Democracy. The activities at Space Camp were physically challenging and exciting. It also provided a platform for our students to demonstrate the values and ethos instilled by St Spyridon College.

Students worked on simulated missions replicating scientific expeditions to Mars and Moon. These operations were elaborate and students gained an in-depth understanding of working in interdisciplinary teams, which included engineers, scientific researchers, doctors, communication officers and others.

The program allowed students to use all their skills in science, mathematics, and in the arts to accomplish their missions and take positive steps towards their future careers. Students were immersed in astronaut training techniques using equipment adapted from NASA's astronaut program. They learnt about space hardware, experienced exploration missions and educational aquatic team building activities, while also learning about aerospace and career opportunities. Our students trained on astronaut simulators, including Multi-Axis Trainer, the Five Degrees of freedom chair and the 1/6th Gravity chair. They also built and launched rockets.

Without doubt Space Camp was a place where imaginations could run wild, where creative critical thinking, leadership development, physical challenges, and team work acts as a catalyst that moulds the dreams of participants into reality.

Furthermore, students expand their curiosity, enabling possible futures towards being the explorers of a new world... as pilots, engineers, doctors, botanists, roboticist... etc. Additionally, many of the SPACE Camp

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graduates go on to work on the leading edge of technology and exploration at NASA and as space industry leaders, while others create opportunities for living and working in space and improving life on earth.

Weather Station Our new University of Athens weather station has been installed and is ready for use. The Science Team is very excited and looking forward to collecting information regarding the microclimate in the region. The unit collects outside weather data and sends the data to a console. Our unit has a rain collector, temperature and humidity sensor and an anemometer which measures wind speed; all measurements are transmitted to the console for processing. The unit is wireless, but a connection via earth cable is possible as well. This is a great opportunity for our students to process first-hand investigation data in various ways. For example, they could plot data in different ways using graph paper or suitable software. As a science team we believe that using data which corresponds to real measurements will demonstrate to our students an exciting application of science. In addition, they will be able to apply their knowledge in the area of statistics and develop their skills on how to use this information for predictions.

Our weather station is "visible" on the web now in Greece. This is great news, finally, because they will create a web page for us showing the weather online. This web page will be accessible to us and to anyone who has an interest in the data provided. This allows closer communication with the University of Athens and consequently strengthens our bonds with Greece on a scientific level.

2

Develop and Implement a policy and a format for submitting draft essays in English Years 11 and 12 classes that targets student responses to teacher feedback.

As documents and details for the new Stage 6 Syllabi in English and History have been released, it is has become clear that these syllabi represent a whole philosophical and pedagogical approach to these subjects.

In preparing the current cohorts of Year 11 and Year 12 students for their HSC based on the old Syllabus, we have implemented a policy which requires students to submit an initial draft of work, followed by a resubmission that incorporates teacher feedback. Our senior students have embraced this approach and it is having a flow on effect to Years 9 and 10.

In these years, increasing numbers of students are voluntarily discussing ideas with the teacher and submitting drafts. A cultural change in how students understand what is required of them is very welcome and sets a strong foundation for the new approach to English embedded in the new Stage 6 syllabus.

3

Hold a successful Appreciating Culture Event for the launch of the new Strategic Plan and the St Spyridon Print (publications) on 17 August 2017.

A successful event was held with art exhibited by students from Years 3 -12. The coordinators of the event, Mrs Grillakis and Miss McCarthy are to be congratulated. St Spyridon Press successfully launched its first two publications: An Anthology of Memories by Mr Livissianis and a Mythology Unit on the Olympian Gods by Mr Amditis and Mrs Diavatiotis (Junior School Teachers). Many people were in attendance including including,

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Very Rev Fr Steven, Matt Thisthlethwaite MP, Eleni Petinos M. Lots of excitement expressed during the evening and since, from parents and students on the new Infants building.Establish a new and robust ISA Cricket program that will grow stronger with each year and contribute to our school’s changing profile.

4

Establish a new and robust ISA Cricket program that will grow stronger with each year and contribute to our school’s changing profile.

Mr Kaldis is responsible for this Target. The cricket season began well, with enthusiasm and energy. The Junior School has also adopted Cricket as one of the focus areas of the College so as to support the program in Years 3 – 12.

Mr Zafiropoulos (Coach) enrolled in a Level 1 cricket course as a refresher to add to his existing Level 1 qualification to be held in early September of this year. Mr Jenkins (parent) will also support the training process.

Mr Kaldis has worked with Council to seek approval for a cricket pitch which has now been approved. Coral Sea Park will be the school’s Home Ground for the event.

In order to assist with the growth/interest of the sport, Mr Kaldis arranged arranged for Cricket NSW to run a cricket skills programme for our year 7 and 8 students during week 6- 10 in Term 3 of this year. The natural progression for which is the Year 9 PE unit of work on Cricket.

5

Develop a new framework for Scholarships as distinct from the Awards and Prizes scheme.

The Scholarships Working Group chaired by Dr Thomas Savoulis, developed a new framework in which Scholarships are distinct from awards and prizes and where general acknowledgement of sponsors replaced named awards.

6

Improve significantly the reliability and effectiveness of our communications networks for students, teachers and parents.

Mr Doyle joined us in Aug 2017 in the capacity of IT Manager. Matt has over 30 years’ experience in consulting to large corporations and government departments in deploying multi-platform enterprise software, business process re-engineering and business analysis. Over the last 12 month the following initiatives have been implemented:



Extend WiFi across both campuses



Deploy “SpySchool” - Parent Portal



Implement Google ClassRoom



Implement ClickView (Educational Videos for K - 12)



Develop a Careers website for students



Upgrade computers to Windows 10

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

Implement formal change processes with our IT Service Provider

We are also about to trial “Paperless Online Teaching” with our senior Science faculty. This initiative will provide laptops for students accessing textbooks online and online resources such as Google ClassRoom, Google Apps, ClickView and YouTube.

7

Comply with all mandated responsibilities in regard to New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), and other government authorities in order to deliver quality education, manage risk, and secure per capita funding. (Goal 8 of the Strategic Plan)

NESA has requested that the College be inspected as a whole from 2019 and not as two separate schools. This means that the Junior School Registration inspection has been brought forward to 2019 so that it falls into line with the Senior Campus. Preliminary discussions are being held around policy documents and updates.

St Spyridon College is a Teacher Accreditation Authority and as such is publicly responsible for the appraisal of teachers. This includes supervising and supporting new and returning teachers against the National Standards taking them from Conditional or Provisional to full Accreditation where they meet the standards; monitoring maintenance of their Accreditation; and monitoring the maintenance of Accreditation of teachers who commenced their careers prior to 2004.

8

Commence new “Global Citizens and Leaders” Program (High Resolves) at Years 7 and 8 with a view to progress to Year 11.

The High Resolves Global Citizens and Leaders Program was introduced to students by Ms Marlina Moussa, Program Manager. The first unit was on Collective Identity. Students had an initial 2 hour seminar with the external presenter and then follow up lessons with their Year Adviser and Home Room Teachers.

There has been an overwhelmingly positive response by both the external presenter and the students.

Student Reflections include: We are not born to hate it is something that we learn We are different but mostly the same Treat people without labels My attitude has changed; I would like to treat people without any labels I resolve to stand up for people I resolve to include others in activities This program made more aware about accepting differences in people Help others The workshop taught me how we can make the world a kinder/better place. It gives meaning to who we are.

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9 Make progress on the new Infants building and utilise this project to revitalise the profile and brand of our Junior School, with the establishment of the K minus 1 program.

Mrs Synesios met with Susan Wright from the AIS to discuss K minus 1.

Mrs Stefanou and Mrs Synesios have had discussions with other Primary Schools regarding their Pre-Kinder programs and will visit some early next year.

NASA SPACE CAMP HUNTSVILLE ALABAMA

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THEME 11: INITIATIVES PROMOTING RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY

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RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVES 2017 St Spyridon College is committed to a values-rich education which is predicated on developing in students respect for every human person.

Student Principles Every student who enrols at St Spyridon College becomes part of the College Community and subscribes to, and endeavours to abide by the following principles: 1.

We value our religious and cultural heritage and respect the religious beliefs of others;

2.

We contribute to the life of our Church and community, and exercise our responsibilities as citizens of a Democratic nation, always obeying the rule of law;

3.

We work together to achieve a school community whose distinguishing characteristics are those of friendship, compassion and decency;

4.

We value the mutual respect between Students and Teachers. We honour our Teachers’ experience as they value our youthfulness;

5.

We consider our studies to be our main goal and undertake to be active participants in our own learning. We set goals for our lives and strive to achieve them with a positive state of mind always working towards justice, truth and beauty;

6.

We look after our health and respect our bodies. We care for our surroundings and the natural environment;

7.

We believe in the sacredness of human life and the dignity of every human person;

8.

9.

We accept the value of hierarchy and the need to conform to rules. We see these as fundamental to the proper functioning of our College; and We respond to the difficulties of life with patience, dignity and faith, never fearing to start again;

Formulated in 2001 Updated by the Year 11 Class of 2006 August 2006

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The Pastoral Care and Student Leadership Program of the College constructed the “lived experiences” of these Student Principles through the Respect and Responsibility initiatives for 2017, outlined below.

“We consider our studies to be our main goal and undertake to be active participants in our own learning.

We set goals for our lives and strive to achieve them with a positive state of mind always working towards justice, truth and beauty.” 

Academic Development – Elevate Seminars



Establishing a conducive study environment

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Importance of good organising

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Setting goals

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Understanding learning styles

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Taking responsibility for managing work and assessments

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Cyber safety and ethical online behaviour

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Values rights and responsibilities

“We work together to achieve a school community whose distinguishing characteristics are those of friendship, compassion and decency.” 

Respect for older students in the school family

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Supporting each other

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Stress management

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Older students assisting younger students

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Year 12 Prefect initiatives

“We value our religious and cultural heritage and respect the religious beliefs of others.” 

Easter and the concept of sacrifice – “Greater love has no man than to lay down life for his friends”.

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AIS Values Project

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Respect and Understanding Program

“We look after our health and respect our bodies. We care for our surroundings and the natural environment.”  Significance of earth hour 

Responsibility and team work in achieving environmental goals (recycling paper, recycling printer cartridges, recycling phones)



Global Warming and impact on our lives, taking responsibility

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Lights off initiative

“We believe in the sacredness of human life and the dignity of every human person.” 

Soup Kitchen duty

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SNOG fundraising for Brain Cancer Research

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Fundraising for various charities

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Nursing Home visits

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ANZAC Day participation in many events at State and Local level

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Five important Global issues -

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Gender equality, Child labour, Refugees, Child health, Climate change

Educational & Financial Reporting\NESA Annual Report 2017

THEME 12: STUDENT VOICES PARENT VOICES TEACHER VOICES

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PARENTS AND FRIENDS EVENTS Father’s Day Breakfast

Mother’s Night Out

Palm Sunday Lunch

Trivia Night

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STUDENT VOICES Student Leadership Assembly at the Junior School Address by Constantinos Kollias – College Captain With sincere joy and great respect I greet you this morning. It brings me so much joy to see all you students before me; for two reasons. Firstly, you look very smart in your school uniform and you sang so beautifully.

Secondly your innocence and simplicity reminds me of an event during the life of Jesus, that, as an Orthodox Christian always makes me reflect on my own life. I'll read it out to you.

"Then they also brought infants to Him that He may touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them to Him and said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it." (From the Gospel of Luke, 18:15- 17) Saint Theophylact of Bulgaria comments on this passage with the following words: 'A little child is not arrogant, he does not despise anyone, he is innocent and guileless... he lives in complete simplicity."

Mr Thistlethwaite, please accept our earnest thanks for recognising leadership in schools and for supporting St Spyridon College. By supporting the College, you are underlining our school's mission to develop the whole person - mind, body and soul. Thi'; development, I believe, is well captured in the Ancient Greek word for education: Morphosis. It translates literally as 'to shape'. At St Spyridon College, the aim of education is to shape who we are as people and not just to accumulate knowledge. It enables us to make a positive contribution to those around us; when the basil is watered, so is the pot, as goes the Greek axiom. In the spirit of dependence; another charactenstic of a little child, this saying, when the basil is watered, so is the pot, may be interpreted: when my peers are refreshed with the waters of education, so am I. Through this beautiful attitude towards education and school life, encouraged by our families and our teachers, we are to make the most of the opportunities for learning, not only by the syllabus dotpoints, but by establishing healthy roots with the Orthodox Faith and the Greek culture and through establishing strong friendships, stepping up to leadership roles and taking part in the arts.

Mr Thistlethwaite, by recognising leadership in our school, you are acknowledging our school's values and principles. As part of the application process for leadership positions, the prefects of both the Junior and Senior School were required to choose one of the school's student principles and speak about it. Coincidently, both my brother Nektarios in Year 6 and I chose the same one. It reads: We respond to the difficulties of life with patience, dignity and faith, never fearing to start again.

No one is perfect, we all make mistakes. The 9th student principle states that we need to face our mistakes, learn from them and move on; progressing mind, body and soul, and making a positive contribution to society

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and to those around us. Leadership requires us to cultivate and pursue qualities such as patience, dignity and faith, not just possess them.

At St Spyridon, we are blessed to be cradled in a paradoxical environment. To an extent, we are sheltered from things in the world that do not contribute to our betterment. But at the same time, we are informed and active members in our local and global community. Nurtured in this paradoxical setting we can best learn and best learn to lead.

May our school and our society gain through leadership opportunities, like this one, and through the guidance of the patron Saint of our school; Saint Spyridon, I hope that you students, prefects, my peers and I, and all may advance in maturity, understanding and capability through the experience. On behalf of the Senior School Prefects, congratulations to all of you Prefects of the Junior School; and thank you Mr Thistlethwaite for reminding us to be grateful in our leadership endeavours and for your continual support.

May God give you and your family strength.

L to R: Ms Kokinelis, Mrs Synesios, Elia Economou, Con Livissianis, Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Constantinos Kollias, Larissa Andrianakos, George Raptis, Mrs Stefanou, Mrs Katsogiannis and Christina Tsaconas

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YEAR 10 STUDENTS PROGRESSION TO YEARS 11 AND 12 Why Do You Wish To Continue Your Studies At St Spyridon College?

It has a great learning environment with hard work and opportunities. (JC) I have always done well at St Spyridon College and I am proud of my achievements and I’m not ready to let that go.

I also think St Spyridon College is the right place for me. (AC) I enjoy studying at St Spyridon College and believe it is the best school for me to be able to perform my best and achieve a good result in the HSC. (AC) I wish to continue my studies at St Spyridon College because of academic and sports curriculum. I would like to achieve the best possible results in Year 11 and 12 which will assist me in my development. (CF) I believe I am in the best environment possible to flourish in all areas of life such as academics sports and mentally as this school provides exceptional facilities, teachers, peers and care. (WG) I have developed a good relationship with both the teaching staff and students and I feel that St Spyridon College will bring out the best of my abilities. (AG) I feel that I am getting support from most of my teachers to achieve my goals in Years 11 and 12. St Spyridon is a school which represents my culture which makes it a fun environment to be in. (FG) I want to continue my studies at St Spyridon College so I can go to university. (LG) I am pleased with the school’s education program. The way subjects are taught, the profession of the teachers and staff as well as the safe learning environment of the College. (MG) Due to the high quality of education received. St Spyridon has personally created a positive learning environment for me where I have been able to develop my skills in many areas/subjects. (GH) I would like to complete my HSC so I can apply to universities and take the courses I would like to take for a future career. (VH) I believe that I can get the most out of my studies at this school in Years 11 and 12. (MH) I believe it is the most well suited school for me. St Spyridon College is a small but extremely welcoming community in which the teachers focus their full attention on their students to give us the best education possible.

St Spyridon’s community is like no other, it’s academically excelling and more importantly united. In specifically my cohort is an encouraging, respectful, academically excelling, close and persistent group. When looking for a school, I focus my attention on two aspects: well suited staff and students and I believe this school has convinced me that both aspects are well suited to me. (HH)

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I have enjoyed being at this school compared to my last one. This is because of the classes I have been in, the other people in my year and I feel that I can rely on teachers more. (GH) I would like to get a good education that can help me when going to university. (SI) The school provides the best education alongside the best environment. (Christian J) I would like to further improve my education and strive continuously achieving better results and to have a better advantage in the future. (NJ) It can further my education and hopefully get into my university course. (RK) To get quality education and support to help me complete my HSC at the best level I can achieve. Also to have ability to expand in my musical skill. (JK) I enjoy the friendly and encouraging environment, including the teachers’ constant support and motivation to ensure their students are striving for success. (DK) St Spyridon College has taught me almost everything I know, keeping true to our faith and our beliefs. St Spyridon College is the right place for me, here I work my hardest and feel most confident and comfortable. (SK) To receive quality education and complete my HSC, achieving a good ATAR. (NK) It is a good learning environment and I am comfortable with my friendship group here. Continuing my studies at St Spyridon College gives me an idea on my future and provides me with many opportunities. (MK) I have attended St Spyridon College since Kindergarten and have enjoyed every moment. It is an outstanding, positive learning environment and wish to conclude my secondary studies here. (SK) To complete my education up to Year 12 and then on to university. (GL) I have been at this school since Kindergarten. I am comfortable and familiar and the school has a good reputation and does well in the HSC. (CL) I have been at St Spyridon College since Kindergarten and I am comfortable at the school with my teachers and peers, this will help me to achieve my goal of going to university. (CL) To enhance my education to the next level and I feel this school will provide me the best chance of successfully completing the HSC. (JL) I want to go to university, I enjoy the Greek culture, am happy with my friends and I live close by (within walking distance). (JL) In order then to go and study at university or TAFE and achieve a degree. (BM) St Spyridon College has been my educational centre since Kindergarten. I respect the principles of the College, in particular the religious and cultural focus, its high standards, work ethic and respect for the community. (CM)

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As I would like to pursue further studies once I leave school and this involves doing the HSC. (CM) I have enjoyed my experience over the years. I have made strong relationships with my peers and the teachers have supported me and helped me strive for my personal best. (CM) Through my 3 years of schooling at St Spyridon College I have formed close bonds with both my peers and teachers who make learning at school enjoyable. (RN) I have been with St Spyridon College since Kindergarten. (PN) I have been in the school since Kindergarten and it feels like a second home to me. (AP) I would like to further my education to better my future. (RP) I have worked hard to achieve what I have achieved and am willing to work harder and take advantage of my schooling years. (SP) I believe the College will provide me with the knowledge and skills that will allow me to achieve my full potential both in my studies and post school life. (PP) St Spyridon College has shaped who I am as a person – mentally, physically, socially and spiritually; in such a positive way. The school’s superb facilities, illustrious staff members and magnificent programs have helped me develop and excel. I would therefore like to forever excel (as the school motto suggests) through continuing my studies at St Spyridon College. (EP) St Spyridon offers great education, friends and a safe environment. (GP) I am comfortable in this environment. (KR) I wish to further pursue an advanced education at a highly qualified school such as St Spyridon College so I can further enhance by knowledge. (VS) I’m comfortable and happy in the educational and personal connection and environment that has been established over these past four years of schooling. (AS) I want to get my ATAR. (SS) I am extremely happy with the education I am receiving which will enable me to do my very best. (TS) I believe that I do my best in all my subjects. I always hand in assignments on time and attend school events. I wish to continue as it has a great learning environment and all my friends are here. (PS) So I can do my HSC and move on to university or TAFE. (NT) It is a school which has not only provided me with my education, but it has also developed me as a confident and hardworking student. St Spyridon College has taught me the fundamental beliefs of the Greek Orthodox faith.

The school has also taught me many things, but most importantly that through hard work almost anything is

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possible. I wish to continue studying at the school as it is a place in which I enjoy being educated and I perceive this as a crucial part of learning. (TT) I like the school and I am comfortable here. I also see no reason to leave. (ET) I would like to extend my knowledge and education which will help me with entering the course I choose. (MV) I want to complete Year 12 and reach a higher level of education which will help me achieve my goals in life. (NV) To further my tertiary education – St Spyridon College will help me and make me a better person to reach my career goals. (PV) Primarily because I commenced my secondary education at St Spyridon College, and it is my desire to complete the full 6 years here. (YV) I wish to enjoy it and am doing well academically. (GV) I believe that the learning environment is excellent and my peers and teachers around me are there for help all the time. Being a “small” school, the classes feel like they one-on-one and the attention given for help always feels great. (CV) I feel comfortable with the school, teachers and atmosphere the school presents. (CV) I like to further my education and I would like to have the best opportunities in the future. Also I would like to discover some new strengths. (SZ)

Year 10 class of 2017

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PARENT VOICES Erenie Bourdaniotis (P&F President- Billy Year 8, Krissy Year 6) I joined the P&F in 2009 when my son Billy was in Kindy. I joined to obviously help fundraise for the school and after I joined, I made new parent friends in different years. The organising of events was fun as it brought the whole school together as one community. Our events such as Spring Fair, Taverna and Trivia Nights are some of the events which the entire school, including students could get involved in. New ideas were brought in by different members and the events became not only more fun, but we would then try and better it the following year. To date as President, along with my committee, I try and continue the success of these events and always open to new ideas. Over all being on the P&F is not only fun, but rewarding, and rny friendships with the committee members will last a lifetime.

Kim Georgas (P&F Vice President- William Year 10, Charlie Year 6) My eldest daughter started school in 1999 and at the beginning of the year there was the AGM for the P&F. So being at a school, where I didn't know any parents and always having the want to help out, I went along. I thought I'll meet parents and help the school community as well. Fast forward 18 years and I'm still meeting new parents and helping the school community. I must say I do love it. I've met so many great parents over all grades, which I wouldn’t have met if I hadn't been on the P&F. I've seen the P&F grow in many aspects. Over the years, we have fine-tuned events and made them very successful.

Most importantly my four children have seen what it is like to be an integral part of a school community. They have seen the amount of work that goes into producing an event by the P&F parents, and by doing this they are more than happy tg jump in and help when needed. I feel this is one of life's greatest lessons.

Lastly I have been blessed to see so many children grow up over the last 18 years, not only just mine. I've watched their little faces burst with excitement when they get to buy gifts from our stalls for Mother's & Father's Day. They are so grateful that the P&F has given them many opportunities to have fun from Spring Fairs to Taverna nights. Priceless memories for me and they continue. Do yourself a favour come and join us you have so much to gain.

Desma Spyridopoulos (Valentina Year 8, Sophia Year 6) I joined the P&F initially because I was curious and I loved that the P&F had helped purchase the smart boards in the classrooms (something that was mentioned during Kindy orientation). It turned out more rewarding than I expected. Firstly, my kids loved seeing me volunteer and felt special helping behind the scenes. Secondly the P&F is separate, but involved enough to make a difference at the school. But key to my continued involvement, is the connections with the members and those I make with other parents from other years at the events. I am always running in and out of the school, life is so rushed. The P&F has given me a reason to stop and be part of our school community more consciously.

Leslie Paparsenos (Dimitri Year 6, Sophia Year 4) Moving to Australia was a big adjustment to my family and we are grateful that we found St Spyridon. The school and the community made us feel welcome and made our transition a lot easier. Originally, I joined the P&F to better understand the culture, and to have the opportunity to be part of my children's life. What

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I didn't expect was to find a place where I could do my part to make a broader difference to the lives of everyone in the St Spyridon community.

Through the P&F I have made some strong friendships that will carry me through the rest of my life.

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TEACHER VOICES Sports Presentation Evening Mr F Kaldis – Boys Sport Sport has a pivotal role in a complete education of all students.

At St Spyridon College we are committed to providing quality sports programs for our students across K-72. At the Junior School students are provided with an introduction to a variety of sports and structured physical activities, while in the Senior School, student motor skill development and higher order performance elements are refined to help our students compete in competitions against other schools.

At St Spyridon this end was achieved in the schools’ inclusion in the ISA competition an association of Independent Schools that provide Saturday sporting opportunities for member schools. Likewise our Primary school is aligned to ASSISA a schools based association that ensures a relevant pathway exists for students to progress in their chosen sports.

Next year marks the schools 25th anniversary of the Colleges involvement in the ISA. It was no doubt a defining moment for the school in 1993 when we joined the ISA as a member of an association that has now become a strong competing sporting association in NSW to rival the Combined Associated Schools (CAS) and Athletic Association of Great Public Schools of NSW (AAGPS) associations.

It is through the ISA competition that has given our students the opportunity to exercise their passion and love for sport. From its humble beginnings in 1992 with seven member schools the ISA has now grown to include 20 member schools with countless competitive sports on offer, of course the expansion of the association and the strength of much larger schools has now made competing much more difficult from the early years.

I would like to reaffirm that Sporting success is not possible if not for a strong team of staff and coaches that dedicate time and effort to help support, nurture and encourage student success. We thank all our external coaches, ex-student coaches, our parent volunteer coaches and school staff. Without whom the schools sport programme would not be as robust as what it is. Thank you also to all the schools sports sponsors for 2017 and in particular the P and F for their ongoing support of sport at the College.

I also acknowledge the support and guidance of Mrs Stefanou Head of College, Mrs Katsogiannis Principal of the Senior School and Mrs Synesios Principal of the Junior School for their continued guidance and support of sport at the College. Lastly I also thank Ms Flokis for the digital presentation that we have enjoyed watching today.

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THEME 13: SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

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THEME 14: PUBLICATION REQUIREMENTS

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Policy on Educational and Financial Reporting St Spyridon College will meet the educational and financial reporting requirements as laid out in the Registered and Accredited Individual non-Government Schools (NSW) manual.

The College will maintain the relevant data and will comply with reporting requirements of the New South Wales Minister for Education, Science and Training. This reporting will include public disclosure on the school’s website of the educational and financial performance measures and policies of the school by the 30 th June of the following year.

Procedures for Preparation of Annual Reports The Head of College with the Executive Team is responsible for co-ordinating the final preparation and distribution of the annual report to NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), Teaching and Educational Standards (NESATES) other stakeholders including parents and the community as required.

The Parish President, with the Parish Executive Officer is responsible for the section on Financial Reporting.

The Head of College will establish and chair the St Spyridon College Educational and Financial Reporting Committee. Its Terms of Reference will include: 

Identification of appropriate staff members who will be responsible for the collection, analysis and storage of relevant data for each reporting area and for providing the relevant information to the coordinator for inclusion in the report



Determination of the specific content to be included in each section of the report and reviewing this each year to ensure ongoing compliance, relevance and usefulness



Preparation of the report in an appropriate form to send to NESA



Setting the annual schedule for: o

Delivery of information for each reporting area to the Head of College

o

Preparation of the report and presentation to the Board of Directors

o

Preparation and Publication of the Report

o

Distribution of the report to NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), Teaching and Educational Standards (NESATES) and other stakeholders

Committee Membership: Head of College (Chair) Principal, Senior School Principal, Junior School Enrolments Officer Other Executive staff may be co-opted to support the work of the Committee.

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Requests for additional data from the NSW Minister for Education and Training The Head of College is responsible for coordinating the school’s response to any requests from the Minister for additional data. The Head of College is responsible for ensuring it is provided to NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), Teaching and Educational Standards (NESATES) in an appropriate electronic form.

DEST Annual Financial Return The Parish Executive Officer is responsible for the collection of the relevant financial data and for ensuring it is provided to DEST in an appropriate form.

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