St Spyridon NESA report 2016

ST SPYRIDON COLLEGE

Annual Report 2016

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

June 2017

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NESA Educational & Financial Reporting. Annual Report 2016

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 our Australian community.

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

Developing the whole Person – Mind, Body and Soul

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The Seven Goals of the Strategic Plan 2012-2016 Goal 1

-

Rich and diverse educational experiences that aim for excellence and demand best effort

Goal 2

-

A Passport to Global Citizenship for students

Goal 3

-

Teachers of excellence

Goal 4

-

Strong and dynamic parent partnerships

Goal 5

-

College Reputation as a Centre of Excellence

Goal 6

-

A safe environment based on sound policies and procedures

Goal 7

-

A secure financial future with functional and conducive buildings and facilities.

The Pursuit of Excellence in all things

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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 ...................................................................... 4 THEME 2: About our College ............................................................................................. 7 Characteristics of the student body ....................................................................... 12 THEME 3: ABOUT OUR STUDENTS Student Outcomes in Standardised National and Literacy Numeracy Testing .................... 14 THEME 4: SENIOR SECONDARY OUTCOMES (STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT) Higher School Certificate ................................................................................... 17 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........................................................................ 32 THEME 9: OTHER SCHOOL POLICIES ................................................................... 35 THEME 10: SCHOOL DETERMINED PRIORITY AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT ........................ 39 THEME 11: INITIATIVES PROMOTING RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY ............................ 45 THEME 12: STUDENT/PARENT VOICES.................................................................. 50 THEME 13: SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION ..................................................... 57 THEME 14: PUBLICATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................. 60

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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 On behalf of the Parish Board of Directors and the Board of Governors, it is my pleasure to write this message for the Annual Report 2016.

The Greek Orthodox faith and Classical Greek thought, has over thousands of years of history brought philosophy, law, mathematics, science, medicine, sport and art to the world. Our College honours this history, and continues to provide us with many events that allow the expression of our children in all forms- music, art and sport. It is this expression that fortifies the underlying feeling of developing the whole person-mind, body and soul.

In our Governance Handbook as part of our Governance Charter we state that the ethos of our College is articulated in its Mission as follows: “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 our Australian community.

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

Our education program addresses the development of the whole person in explicit and demonstrable ways. It also considers the rich diversity of the 31 different cultural backgrounds and many religious backgrounds.

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 2016 HSC students is worth highlighting, in that 93% of students have begun undergraduate degrees.

Congratulations to all our HSC students of Year 2016.

Teaching is a sacred art. It develops the students by learning about their chosen subjects and about life; it also fortifies their relationship with their parents and their peers. 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, Senior School Principal, Mrs Katsogiannis and Junior School Principal, Mrs Synesios. It is through their leadership and the passion and dedication of our teachers that our College has developed a culture that is considered by all as a big family that cares for all its students. To our Parish Executive Officer/College Bursar, Mrs Christina Tsaconas, and her staff the administration of our College is in strong and faithful hands.

Congratulations to our 2016 College Captain, Chrystal Christie and as she said “we have come a long way as a year group and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for everyone”…neither can we!! 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

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who offer their time and expertise so that we can continue to work with care and in unity within 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 2016, a story of success and positive results.

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–2016 It is my pleasure and privilege to welcome everyone to this year’s Assembly, which celebrates Academic Achievement and Student Leadership. At the close of this school year we look back and give thanks to God and our Patron St Spyridon for the progress we have made. We express our appreciation to all the people and organisations named in the program who sponsor our Scholarships and Awards. We welcome you as VIPs to today’s event.

Our College motto is «Αιέν Αριστεύειν», “Always Striving to Excel”. Academic progress is important to us. Our HSC students consistently bring the school in the top 15 – 20% in the State-last year, in the top 10% overall and in the top 5% for Mathematics. We are proud that over 90% of our students go on to university.

But we are just as proud when we see our students line up with all dignity to take Holy Communion; when we receive- as we often do, a letter from a complete stranger, telling us of your kindness and compassion; when people off the street come in to enrol their children-not because of our advertising, but because they are impressed with the general conduct of the students who wear our uniform.

My dear students, there are thousands of people- millions of people out there getting paid a lot of money to look after themselves. There are a lot of clever people out there making the world a little bit worse by their presence-because they do not have what you have. And what you have ‘Φιλοτημο’.

What you have is values. You are by your very nature brave and honourable. For you and for us, the pursuit of excellence goes beyond academic ambition; because here we endeavour to develop the whole person, Mind, Body and Soul. What you have my dear students, is sheer determination-and a passion for everything you put your minds to. How else do we explain a school of 200 boys and 200 girls convincingly competing with schools of 2000 students-as you do in ISA sports, so that we are in Division one ISA Football and Athletics?

Part of that credit must surely go to your parents and your teachers. I take this opportunity to commend our teachers for their commitment and dedication to their students’ progress. In building a culture of values and high expectations, I am indeed fortunate to have as my strongest allies, the Principal of the Senior School Mrs Katsogiannis, and the Principal of the Junior School, Mrs Synesios.

The three of us are united in our mission that Father Steven has described as a sacred responsibility.

In today’s confused and troubled world, this is not always easy. We ask for your prayers and your support in our sometimes complex and often difficult task.

We thank the members of the P & F Committee 2016 and our inimitable President Mrs Erenie Bourdaniotis for an outstanding year of school community events. These raise money certainly-but just as importantly, our P&F contributes to culture building, to creating a strong sense of belonging, and shared pride in our wonderful school. This year a spectacular total of $70,000 has been raised.

Congratulations P&F.

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Reverend Father Steven Scoutas, we thank you for your hard work, in the service of the Church and its people over many years. We thank you Father Sotiri for your loving-kindness, your prayers and your good works. We thank Mr Livissianis and his Board. The new Teacher Prep areas, the Library and Senior Study are already in use and we will be ready to show them off to you in the New Year.

Thank you to Mrs Tsaconas for your services to the College in your capacity as PEO/College Bursar.

Very soon, students will come forward to receive their awards. We commend them one and all.

Some of you already received recognition for your efforts and achievements at the Middle School Assembly and we congratulate you for this. We also commend our many strong and quiet achievers who may not get an award today, but who have done their personal best in their learning and general conduct. I want you to know that we notice you, and take pride in your efforts.

In closing I wish the Year 12 class of 2016 every success in your HSC results.

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.

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.

4.

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.

5.

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.

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, cross-country, music and special ability events.

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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 2016 Mrs Stefanou-Haag was also a member of the HICES Conference subcommittee.

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.

Independent Sporting Association (ISA)

St Spyridon College is a full 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

9.

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

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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.



Excellent 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.



Rich learning experiences 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.



Qualified and specialist teachers in Gifted and Talented, Physical Education and Sports, Information Technology, Greek Language, Greek Dance, Music, Special Education and Student Welfare Officer.



Interschool sporting competitions through ASISSA.

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.



Preparing for Preliminary Examinations and HSC Academic Elevation Courses;



ACER, Dux and University Scholarships.



Excellent Careers advisory service.



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.



A Sports and Performing Arts Centre (SPACe), incorporating Music suites, Drama spaces, gymnasium, and sporting facilities for futsal, basketball and netball.



Specialist facilities including Information and Communications Technology classrooms, Visual and Creative Arts centres, Food Technology and Hospitality facilities, woodwork.



Highly qualified caring teachers committed to excellence.



Small class sizes.

For further information you may access http://www.myschool.edu.au.

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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

Romania

Brazil

Fiji

Israel

Russia

Canada

Georgia

Italy

Serbia

China

Germany

Malaysia

Turkey

Columbia

Greece

Nepal

United Kingdom

Croatia

India

New Zealand

United States of America

Cyprus

Indonesia

Peru

Zimbabwe

Czech Republic

Iran

Poland

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 45% of our families live further than 12 kilometres away from the school.

The Hellenic Presidential Guard Visits Our College

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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 2016

Proportion of students in Years 3 and 5 achieving at or above the National Minimum Standard 2016 NAPLAN Test

Literacy (Overall)

Percentage of students at or above the National minimum standard Year 3 (41) Year 5 (49) School State-wide School State-wide 100

97

99

95

o

Reading

100

97

98

94

o

Writing

100

99

100

95

o

Spelling

100

97

100

95

o

Grammar & Punctuation

100

97

98

96

100

94

100

95

Numeracy (Overall) o

Number, P&A

100

94

100

96

o

Measurement, Data, Space &

100

93

100

95

Geometry

100

95

100

94

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 o

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

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

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Proportion of students in Years 7 and 9 achieving at or above the National Minimum Standard 2016 NAPLAN Test

Percentage of students at or above the National minimum standard Year 7 (76) School

State-wide

Year 9 (69) School

State-wide

Literacy o

Reading

99%

95%

97%

94%

o

Writing

99%

92%

88%

84%

o

Spelling

100%

95%

100%

92%

o

Grammar & Punctuation

97%

95%

96%

90%

Numeracy o

Number Patterns and Algebra

100%

96%

99%

97%

o

Measurement, Data, Space &

100%

97%

99%

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 95% 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.

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JUNIOR SCHOOL EVENTS

Walkathon to raise funds for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)

Dignitaries from Greece Visit the Junior School

Visit to the Parish of St Nicholas, Marrickville

Veggie Patch funded

by Randwick Council

Olympics Day Future Scientist Day

JUNIOR SCHOOL PERFORMANCE – “SMILE”

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Higher School Certificate 100% of students attained their HSC. Hospitality VET and Information and Digital Technology VET were offered at school. 11 out of 59 (19%) students studied these courses.

Total Number of Students

HSC 2016

Performance Band achievement by number and % Band 3-6

Band 1-2

School

State-wide

School

State-wide

Ancient History

7

71

82

28

18

Biology

8

88

90

12

10

Business Studies

29

100

86

0

14

Chemistry

8

88

94

12

7

Drama

11

100

98

0

2

Economics

5

60

94

40

6

English (Standard)

30

93

87

7

13

English (Advanced)

29

100

99

0

1

Food Technology

8

100

81

0

19

Geography

7

100

89

0

11

Information Processes and Technology Legal Studies

7

100

81

0

19

15

100

88

0

12

Mathematics General 2

28

96

74

4

26

Mathematics

14

93

92

7

8

Modern History

29

100

86

0

14

Music

10

100

98

0

2

Personal Dev. Health & P.E.

15

93

83

7

17

Physics

8

88

88

12

12

Visual Arts

7

100

98

0

2

Classical Greek

2

100

100

0

0

Modern Greek Continuers

7

100

100

0

0

Serbian Continuers

3

100

100

0

0

Hospitality (VET)

9

100

79

0

21

Information and Digital Technology

2

100

83

0

17

Performance Band achievement % HSC 2009 - 2016

Total Number of Students

Band 3 - 6 School

State-wide

Band 1 - 2 School State-wide

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

2010

47

96

89

4

11

2009

44

95

87

5

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Performance Band achievement by number and % HSC 2016

Total Number of Students

Band E4-E3 School State-wide

Band E1-E2 School State-wide

English Extension 1

4

75

95

25

5

Mathematics Extension 1

5

100

79

0

21

Mathematics Extension 2

3

100

85

0

15

History Extension 1

2

100

81

0

19

Modern Greek Extension 1

4

100

96

0

4

Please note:  

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

RoSA One Record of School Achievement credential was awarded in 2016.

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HSC CLASS OF 2016-HIGHLIGHTS In 2016, 59 students sat for the Higher School Certificate Examinations (HSC) across 30 courses.

There were also 7 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: 

Demitra Nikas ATAR 96.05, BOSTES HSC All Round Achiever, Professor Manuel Aroney Award and University Scholarship recipient.



Zografia Kanlis, Top Achiever, 2nd Modern Greek Continuers.



Rothopi Nicolaou, Top Achiever, 5th Modern Greek Continuers.



Marina Dionysiou, Top Achiever, 5th Modern Greek Extension.



8% of students with an ATAR over 90.



Out of 59 students 39% have results 80% and above in a given course.

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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 2016

JUNIOR SCHOOL STAFF 2016

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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

2016

Individuals

Review of Strategic Plan 2016-2016-Develop Strategic Plan 2017-2012

K-12 team

Mandated Policies and Principles as Education Professionals

K-12 team

CPR

K – 6 team

Work Health Safety

K-12 team

First Aid

K – 6 Team

Executive Leadership

3

ICT

3

Greek Orthodox Ethos in Education

K – 12 team

Learning Support/Special Education

3

Building Capacity – High Order Thinking

12

Curriculum – Specific

K – 12 team

Pastoral Care and Student Leadership

25

Values in Education (AIS School Based Research Project)

6

HSC Marking/Judging/Examiner

13

The average expenditure on professional learning in 2016 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

26

34

60

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 2016 the average daily staff attendance rate was 97%



The proportion of staff retained from 2015 is 100%

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 2016 was 95%. This was the same as the daily attendance rate in 2015. 100% of absences were explained.

Year Level

Annual Attendance Rate %

Kindergarten

95

Year 1

94

Year 2

95

Year 3

95

Year 4

96

Year 5

95

Year 6

97

Year 7

95

Year 8

94

Year 9

94

Year 10

93

Year 11

95

Year 12

96

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 2016 there was a retention rate from Years 10 to 12 of 98%. This is higher than previous years.

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POST SCHOOL DESTINATIONS

DESTINATIONS OF YEAR 12 CLASS OF 2016

Undergraduate Degrees 93%

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE DESTINATIONS

17%

15%

15%

4% 10%

23% 8%

8%

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UNSW USYD ACU MACQ U WSU UTS W'GONG NDU

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 W’GONG – University of Wollongong NDU – University of Notre Dame

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SENIOR SCHOOL EVENTS

AIS Research Project – Student Research Teams St Spyridon College, Masada College and Rouse Hill Anglican College

Year 7 “Getting to Know You” activity day

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese National Schools Event at Perth

Year 10 Food Technology invite a teacher for a two-course meal luncheon

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Commerce Market Day Year 9

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SENIOR SCHOOL PERFORMANCE SHOWCASE 2016

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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 Executive, 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 2016

Access to Full Text

STUDENT WELFARE Child Protection Policy encompassing: 

Policy statement



Protocols than enhance ethos and

New requirements for

Teacher and other Staff

culture

Working with Children

Personnel Policy and

Professional conduct in relation to

(WWC) for all employees

Procedure Handbook 1

Child Protection

and volunteers



Full text in:



Definitions and concepts

Policy in:



Legislative requirements

Parent Handbook



Child Protection Legislation

and Study Planner

Amendment Bill 2003 (Provided by the AIS) 

Child Protection Procedures



Investigation process



Reporting and investigating “reportable conduct”



Procedural fairness



Documentation



Appendices

STUDENT WELFARE Security Policy encompassing: Work Health and Safety Policy

New procedures for before

Full text in: Teacher

including:

school care services at the

Handbook 3



Rationale

Junior School



Code of Practice



Policy statement

Statement in:



Management procedure

Parent Handbook



12 systems specified by the AIS



guidelines Full text in: 

Students Acceptable Use of

Teacher Handbook 2

Information and Communications

Managing Positive

Policy

Learning Environments

Disability Policy

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Parent Handbook

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Policy

Changes in 2016

Access to Full Text

STUDENT WELFARE

Full text in: Teacher and

Supervision Policy encompassing:

other staff

 Roles and responsibilities of Teacher

Personnel Policy and

 Attendance

Procedure Handbook 1

 Punctuality  Staff absence

Summary of main points

 Duty of care

in:

 Duty of care and student attendance

Parent Handbook

 Duty of care and supervision  Negligence  Yard Duty

Study Planner

 Keys and security

STUDENT WELFARE Pastoral Care Policy encompassing:  Attendance

Full text in:

 Managing a positive learning

Teacher Handbook 2 –

environment

Managing A Positive

 Rewarding the good

Learning Environment

 The pastoral care system  Availability of and access to special

Excerpts in:

services such as counselling

Study Planner

 Health care procedures  Home study policy

Parent Handbook

 Progression through schooling  Leadership

STUDENT WELFARE Discipline & Resolving Grievances

Revised procedural fairness

Full text in: Teacher

Codes of Conduct Policy encompassing:

section, with reference to

Handbook 2 -Managing A

 Our principles as St Spyridon

serious disciplinary

Positive Learning

 Education Professionals

procedures

Environment

 Our principles as St Spyridon College students  Code of conduct for students

Study Planner

 Classroom behaviour management

Parent Handbook

 Consideration for ethical behaviour management

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Policy

Changes in 2016

Access to Full Text

 Statement on Procedural fairness

Study Planner Parent Handbook  Statement bullying and harassment

Revisions include cyber

Teacher Handbook 1

bullying more explicitly  College policy prohibits corporal punishment and does not sanction its use by anyone

Communication Policy encompassing:  Formal and informal mechanisms that

Use of SMS for timely and routine messages to parents.

Communication in:

facilitate communication between the school and those with an interest in the

K-12 section of

students’ education and well-being

fortnightly Newsletter

 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 2015). 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 2016).

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THEME 10: SCHOOL DETERMINED PRIORITY AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

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The Seven Goals of the Strategic Plan 2012-2016 Goal 1

-

Rich and diverse educational experiences that aim for excellence and demand best effort

Goal 2

-

A Passport to Global Citizenship for students

Goal 3

-

Teachers of excellence

Goal 4

-

Strong and dynamic parent partnerships

Goal 5

-

College Reputation as a Centre of Excellence

Goal 6

-

A safe environment based on sound policies and procedures

Goal 7

-

A secure financial future with functional and conducive buildings and facilities.

The Pursuit of Excellence in all things

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Targets for 2016 Review and Implementation of Strategic Plan 2012-2016 The Targets for 2016, centered on the review of the Strategic Plan 2012-2016. This Plan was the fourth in a series of five year plans, spanning the period of 2002-2016. It was timely to review progress over the course of these 15 years.

In that time, the College made outstanding progress across all areas of its operations.

We have all worked hard to attract a good calibre student population, despite the challenges of operating in a catchment area of lower fee/high reputation Catholic schools, and the highest fee/prestigious schools in New South Wales.

This excellent outcome cannot be attributed to demographic patterns. Not all similar schools are experiencing this growth. Our reputation is clearly playing a role in the school’s enrolment growth.

This puts us in a very strong position in planning for the future, in terms of financial viability and capacity to take our students and our school to the next level.

Factors Contributing to Success A key factor the school’s success has been our capacity to develop and implement clearly articulated strategic directions, proposed by the Head of College and approved and fully endorsed by the College Board of Governors. Indeed the Governors in their role as the guardians of the College Mission have staunchly supported significant financial investment in buildings, facilities and curriculum innovation, even when managing challenges resulting from the impact of demographic forces on school enrolments. The fact that the Governors fully endorsed the Progression Policy, at a time when schools in New South Wales experienced falling enrolments is testimony to their vision and commitment. The result has been that the College did not experience disruption to its plans for progress or damage to its reputation. We continued to grow our school.

The confidence shown by the Board in the school’s future has meant that today we have a strong and resilient school community with a reputation for educational excellence offering a wide range of subjects within a wellresourced and conducive environment.

The role of the Principals as educational leaders and the school’s capacity to attract and maintain top educators who make a long-term commitment to the College have been central to the achievement of our shared goals. Strong and shared commitment of Boards and school educational leaders to the school’s Ethos and Mission, as well as high level of trust placed in a school by parents, are features that distinguish a resilient school community from a vulnerable one.

Progress over the course of the first three Strategic Plans 2002-2016 In summary we note the following progress over the last five years last 15 years:

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Structures and processes •

The establishment of structures and processes for a strong and coherent K-12 College community, thereby strengthening capacity and reputation.

•

The promulgation of clearly articulated statements of Mission and Values.

•

Strong policy basis, ensuring compliance and capacity to meet all statutory mandates.

Academic results •

The value added to academic results, moving students from Bands 3 and 4 to Bands 5 and 6-and the highest HSC result in the school’s history (in the top 10%in the State overall and in top 5%in the State in Mathematics.)

•

The value added to our NAPLAN results, which are very high.

Buildings and facilities •

The construction of outstanding buildings and facilities at both campuses: - the BER assisted building of the SPACe, providing outstanding facilities in Music, Drama, Sports and a public performance space is a source of pride and prestige for our College and Parish, having hosted the IPSHA Choirs, the Archdiocese Clergy-Laity Conferences, the AIS Project Conferences, the AHEA Awards, the Byzantine Chant Choir artists in residence from NIDA, visiting lecturers from the University of Sydney Archaeological Institute at Athens.

-the Technology Wing at the Senior School, replacing demountable and offering state of the art facilities in Hospitality, IT, woodwork, Textiles and the Fine Arts.

-Doran House at the Junior School, providing a conducive environment for the education of young children and a potential ideal centre for K minus one and early childhood programs.

Innovative programs •

The exemplary values- based scoped and sequenced Pastoral Care and Student Leadership Program 712, across the four building blocks of Personal Development, Study Skills, Community Action and Global Connections.

•

The very strong K-6 literacy and comprehensive early intervention program that ensures very high results in the NAPLAN.

•

The appointment of Maths specialist as both teacher and change agent, at the Junior School, anticipating the recommendations of STEM by 7 years, resulting in very strong Mathematics program K-6.

•

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The implementation of Honours Classes in English, Mathematics and Modern Greek.

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Enrolments •

The steady growth in enrolments over the last 9 years. The highest enrolment numbers in the school’s history. The highest enrolment numbers for the Senior School, with very strong interest in both the Senior and Junior School for 2017 and 2018, as well as good signals for 2019.

In summary, we present as a young dynamic school that operates at a sophisticated level. We are willing to learn from everyone, and spend considerable time in professional engagement with new concepts, ideas and current research. However our actions are predicated on sound professional judgement and executed in a planned and coherent manner. This enables us to progress in our Goals and make tangible gains; it builds reputation, and allows us to be fully accountable to our parent body and the increasing number of Government and associated authorities to which we must report.

Our research-based approach to education has placed us in the vanguard of educational innovation. In fact, we have anticipated many new initiatives now advocated or mandated by the National Curriculum and NESATES including the junior focus on early intervention; phonics and grammar and literature; as previously mentioned, the appointment of a Mathematics specialist as advocated by STEM. Some of the research projects that we have undertaken include the Missions Skills Assessment and the AIS School based research project on “Educational Excellence-A question of values” together with Masada College and Rouse Hill Anglican College.

What was not achieved over the first three Strategic Plans 2002-2016 Although we have made excellent progress on the greatest majority of our targets, there are areas in which we did not achieve our agreed goals: •

We did not establish the K-minus one class as originally planned in 2002, as we do not have the requisite space and facilities.

•

We did not introduce the study of Chinese in any substantial manner as planned in 2012- only as an offline program via Distance Education for native speakers.

Future Opportunities and Challenges: Below is a list of opportunities and challenges in taking our school forward. Our opportunities and challenges are inextricably linked and need to be considered together in developing our future directions, in the development of the Strategic Plan 2016-2021.

Present Senior School Enrolments: The College is attracting record numbers of applications. Their reasons for enrolling cluster around 3 major factors: Academics, Orthodox faith and Greek Culture, and reputation.

Future Enrolments: We can now seize the opportunity to grow our enrolments. This will further enhance our capacity to establish gifted/accelerant classes, and thereby strengthen our school’s results and broaden opportunities for students.

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Buildings and facilities: To provide for current enrolments we need two new Science labs and a theory room (that can be used as a general classroom. We also need more general purpose classrooms. The new Library and Teacher Prep areas will free up one classroom and create a new Senior Study.

Present Junior School Enrolments: There is a demand for enrolments across the Primary years of schooling. This again is an excellent development, especially as we are surrounded by high calibre State primary Schools and low fee/high reputation Catholic Primary Schools. A pattern is emerging for applications to be received for Years 5 and 6, in order to secure a placement in Year 7. We have the opportunity to create a very strong enrolment stream for our Junior School. This is critically important for the future of the school K-12, since we have no feeder schools.

Buildings and facilities: The recommendation for the establishment of a K minus one class, has been made in every Strategic Plan since 2002. Such an initiative depends on the construction of a new Infants school facility.

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THEME 11: INITIATIVES PROMOTING RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY

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RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVES 2016 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.

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

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 2016, outlined below.

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“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



Encourage Growth Mindset – try even if you don’t succeed try again; try something different; all experiences have benefits



Establishing a conducive study environment



Importance of good organisation



Setting goals



Understanding learning styles



Taking responsibility for managing work and assessments



Cyber safety and ethical online behaviour



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



Supporting each other



Stress management



Older students assisting younger students



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”.



AIS School Based Research Project-“Educational Excellence-A question of Values”



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)  Green Up Clean Up  Global Warming and impact on our lives, taking responsibility  Lights off initiative

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

Soup Kitchen duty



SNOG fundraising for Brain Cancer Research



Fundraising for various charities



Nursing Home visits



ANZAC Day participation in many events at State and Local level

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

Six important Global issues -

Gender equality

-

Child labour

-

Refugees – Syrian support refugees

-

Child health

-

Climate change

JUNIOR SCHOOL RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY INITIATIVES 2016 “We work together to achieve a school community whose distinguishing characteristics are those of friendship, compassion and decency.”

Traditions “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 friends”.



In March we were honoured to host the Greek Presidential Guard (Evzones) visit the Junior School who shared their history with the students.



Junior School Captain Adriana Drakoulis was selected to represent her school in a Harmony Day project created by our local member Matt Thistlethwaite. We congratulate her on the confident and proud delivery of her Harmony message in Greek (We pay tribute to the first Australians who cared for and nurtured our land for thousands of years). This clip is on the Member’s Facebook page.



School students visited the War Memorial Hospital Waverley and the Parish of St Nicholas, Marrickville to perform for the community members.



Through the College programs and Canteen, we uphold the fast of the Orthodox Church.

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

In conjunction with Randwick Council, the Junior School was granted a ‘Food Garden’ grant where students from K – 6 could participate in the establishment of a food garden. Students were provided with the opportunity to explore ways in which environments, social systems and structures meet people’s needs, influence the lifestyles of people and contribute to community identity. Furthermore, the students were provided with the opportunity to become responsible, cooperative community members.

The environment and our response to global issues are interwoven in curriculum units. Students work through activities where they demonstrate through their understanding and actions, their commitment to *respect of their own bodies and that of the natural environment as they have been created by God “We believe in the sacredness of human life and the dignity of every human person.” 

Junior School participated in the IPSHA JDRF Walkathon to raise funds for Junvenile Diabetes. Our College was one of the top 4 fundraising schools in NSW, raising $11,765. Junior School Captains will

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address a gathering at Ascham School on the 12th September when the cheque is presented to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. ďƒ˜

The Pastoral Care and Discipline Programs are based on this principle. From Kindergarten, the children are taught to Stop, Think and Do, the right thing. At the heart of this message is the belief that human life is sacred and to be respected.

ďƒ˜

Units of work and texts studied uphold this belief.

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THEME 12: STUDENT VOICES PARENT VOICES

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INTERVIEW WITH ERENIE BOURDANIOTIS 1.

How many children do you have in the school? What years are they in?

I have two children at the school. Billy is in year 8 and Krissy is in year 6.

2.

Why did you choose St Spyridon College for your children?

I chose St. Spyridon College for many reasons. Firstly it is a co-ed school and for me that was very important. Secondly because it is a Greek Orthodox School and this was also important because my children were able to not only attend a school which covered the NSW curriculum, but also learn the Greek Language, the Greek culture the Greek religion under one roof. They have been taught so many aspects of the Greek part of the school which I would not have ordinarily had the time or capacity to teach them, which includes important Prayers and Chants, Greek Songs, Greek Plays and Greek Dancing.

3.

How many years have you been on the P & F? In what capacities?

I joined the P&F in 2009 when my son Billy was in Kindergarten. I started as a committee member for the first year, I then became the Treasurer between 2010-2014. I then became P&F President in 2015 until present.

4.

Why did you join the P & F? I joined the P&F to get involved in the schools fundraising and also to meet new parents. I think it is important to be involved in your children’s schooling life in Primary School because you get to see how the school runs because as being part of the P&F you need to liaise with teachers and Principals at times if fundraising involves them and at times these fundraisers are during school hours or on school grounds.

5.

What would you say to a prospective parent who is considering St Spyridon College for their children?

The first thing I would say to a prospective parent considering this school would be that your children are in safe hands. The nurturing and one on one care your child receives from Kindy and through to year 6 is like no other. The Principals and teachers make it their point to not only know their students in their class, but all of the students in the school. It is like one big family. In years 5 and 6 there is a program which makes the students more independent by moving from class to class like they do in Senior School, in preparation for High School. It truly is a wonderful program and the children are more than prepared for High School. Although it is a Greek Orthodox School, it is still very well balanced with all other subjects such as Maths, English, HSIE, Science, Sport and other cocurricular subjects such as Robotics, Cooking, Choir, Coding and many more. The Greek part of the curriculum which includes Greek Orthodox Religion and Greek Culture are the added extras that make this school well rounded. From a monetary perspective, it is also a very good value school.

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6.

What would you say to a parent thinking about joining the P & F? I would say to any parent thinking about joining the P&F that it is a very rewarding experience for not only yourself but for your children who are proud to see their parents on the committee. Raising funds are primarily the main aim and when we do raise a lot of funds we are so proud that all our hard work has paid off. Another rewarding thing is seeing the parent community of the school supporting our fundraising efforts by not only attending but many also donating their time to help or give money.

7.

What would you like to see changed or improved within the school?

I would like to see more parking at the Junior School and at the Senior School. I know the Junior School would be a little harder due to the lack of land. The Senior School on the other hand has a grass land medium strip which gets opened by the council on big events such as Showcase evenings and Award giving ceremonies but it needs to be opened constantly for students to park, teachers to park and for parents to park if they need to visit the school.

I would also like to introduce online textbooks so students don’t carry the heavy textbooks home with them all the time, especially for those that don’t have lockers.

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PARENTS AND FRIENDS EVENTS

THEME 13:

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STUDENT VOICES – SENIOR SCHOOL COLLEGE CAPTAIN – CHRYSTAL CHRISTIE Congratulations on successfully graduating. We have accomplished so much together as a year group and I just want to thank you once again for accepting me into your family in year 8. I remember in year 7 I came to the school for the first time to go on a tour, the big smiles and comforting waves you welcomed me with as I walked past the classrooms, foreshadowed how beautifully accepting this family is. We have lost some students and gained some students and overtime I am blown away with how easily you accepted and grew as a cohort. It feels like just yesterday we were at Mythos Taverna dancing to the hit song of the year Gangnam style, or the changing of spots for where we wanted to sit at recess and lunch. We have all accomplished great things together as a year group including as Ms Gambriell mentioned yesterday, our fundraising for charity where we have raised thousands of Euros to go towards our girl in Greece. We have changed lives together which is an amazing thing to say so congratulations to all of you once again. The prefect body this year has started a Student of the Week that’s announced every Friday. I would like to announce that you are all the students of the week for this week. Congratulations yet again!

To all of our teachers that we have had throughout the years, thank you again for guiding us through this journey of education. You have all individually helped us grow into the people we are now by continuously encouraging us to not just make you proud but to make ourselves proud. Your patience is admirable especially when we make you repeat things once, twice, maybe 4 four times over because we forgot to listen. The memories we have made together are priceless.

To all of the parents guardians, brothers, sisters and extended family, thank you for not only attending tonight but your constant support through our schooling lives and taking us to all the events acting as our taxi drivers every day before we all became a little more independent by getting our drivers license. You are always supporting our dreams and for that I am forever grateful.

Reverend Fathers thank you for conducting the divine liturgy services for us over the years, you have taught us that through our faith and belief in God we can accomplish almost anything!

Mrs Stefanou and Mrs Katsogiannis your leadership and wisdom over the past 6 years at the school has been a truly amazing and has inspired a lot of us to try to gain qualities that both of you have. Thank you for all the things you do for us and supporting us as a year group. We can't wait, or maybe some of us can, to make you proud in the HSC. Ms Gambriell, where would we be without you. A world without Ms Gambriell is a world filled with untucked shirts, unshaven boys, girls with no ribbons in their hair, the common room would probably be unlocked more and the coffee machine wouldn't be confiscated as much but we would all be a complete mess without you.

You are the glue that holds us altogether. You're determination to helping and organising us is breathtaking.

Thank you for sticking by us through the thick and thin and continuously sacrificing things to make sure we

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were behaving and doing well. Words can’t explain how grateful we all are for being blessed with you as our year advisor.

And now it’s time for us to move on from the school where we have been in cocoons, preparing and growing in order to be ready for the real world and we shall fly like butterflies. We all have our dreams and goals in life that we wish to accomplish. Even though some of them may seem quite impossible just remember what Audrey Hepburn has said “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says 'I'm possible’!” You all have much more than just potential to do great things in the world and I can’t wait to be able to say “hey I went to school with them” I know that when I’m 75 years old I’ll be telling my grandkids about all of the amazing things we have done together. It’s strange to think about how little we were and now how far we have come together and now we are finished. We won’t see each other every single day anymore but that doesn't mean we won’t be there for each other. Its relationships like ours that we have created with each other by connecting on another level.

We are family now and forever. In year 7 you were told at your first assembly to look at the new faces around you because these strangers will grow to become your friends, and even the godparents of your kids. We have come such a long way as a year group and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for everyone. The world is waiting for St Spyridon class of 2016…God bless you all and thank you for making my life at school one amazing adventure.

STUDENT VOICES – JUNIOR SCHOOL Adriana Drakoulis Good evening, Reverend Father Steven, Father Sotiri, Mr Livissianis, Chairman of our board, Mrs Stefanou, Mrs Synesios, Mr Dookie, Ms Kokinelis, family and friends.

Tonight, I welcome you to Year 6’s Graduation and dinner dance.

My name is Adriana Drakoulis and along with my co-captain, Jamyson Gouveros, I take this moment to thank the school, teachers and parents for everything that has been taught to and organized for Year 6.

St. Spyridon College has offered many opportunities. I am very grateful to go to a Greek Orthodox School. Our wonderful teachers have more than prepared us and with our friends by our side we are confident to take the next step. I am very thankful that I have grown up with all these amazing students. There are many countless events ahead of us to enjoy altogether.

Seven years at this brilliant school have been fun and exciting; all the athletics carnivals, sports days and feast days are just some of the memories this school has given me.

Not only have we matured greatly but learnt many lessons to take with us to Year 7 and continue on with our Senior School journey.

For our 2017 School Captains, Charlie & Sienna, I wish you great luck for your new role, enjoy year 6 and lead with your best foot forward. You have great responsibility and many fantastic events to participate in.

Thank you for your attention. I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening.

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Δημήτρης Γκουβέρος Σεβαστοί πατέρες Στυλιανέ και Σωτήριε, κυρία Στεφάνου, κυρία Συνεσίου, κύριε Dookie, κυρία McCarthy, κύριε Davies, αγαπητοί εκπαιδευτικοί, αγαπητοί γονείς και συγγενείς,

λέγομαι

Δημήτρης

Γκουβέρος

και

σήμερα

εκπροσωπώ

όλες

τις

συμμαθήτριες και όλους τους συμμαθητές μου ως αρχηγός του σχολείου μας. Στέκομαι απόψε μπροστά σας και νιώθω πολύ συγκινημένος. Είναι δύσκολο να πιστέψω πως εφτά χρόνια πέρασαν τόσο γρήγορα. Ήρθαμε μικρά παιδιά και τώρα φεύγουμε σχεδόν έφηβες και έφηβοι. Έχουμε αρχίσει να ωριμάζουμε σιγά σιγά. Όμως, τι μας βοήθησε να ωριμάσουμε; Σίγουρα η βοήθεια, η υποστήριξη και η ενθάρρυνση που μας παρείχε όλο το διδακτικό προσωπικό του σχολείου μας. Όλα αυτά τα χρόνια νιώθαμε πως όλοι αυτοί οι άνθρωποι ήταν πάντα δίπλα μας, πάντα διαθέσιμοι να μας ακούσουν, να μας συμβουλέψουν, να μας ηρεμήσουν. Ξεκινήσαμε τη φετινή χρονιά αποφασισμένοι να προσφέρουμε στα παιδάκια του νηπιαγωγείου μας φροντίδα, φιλία και αγάπη και σε μεγάλο βαθμό το καταφέραμε. Το χαμόγελο των μικρών παιδιών, όταν ήμασταν μαζί τους, ήταν αρκετό να μας κάνει να νιώσουμε ότι κάτι καλό κάναμε. Βέβαια, μέσα στον ενθουσιασμό και την παιδική μας ζωντάνια ίσως άλλες στιγμές να απογοητέψαμε τους δασκάλους μας. Δεν ήταν στιγμές που νιώθαμε να μας κατακλύζει η περηφάνια. Όμως, απόψε ολοκληρώνουμε την παρουσία μας στο δημοτικό σχολείο. Είμαστε εδώ για να σας αποχαιρετίσουμε. Φεύγουμε, αλλά παίρνουμε μαζί μας τις αρχές και την πίστη που μάθαμε εδώ. Και δεν έχουμε να φοβηθούμε τίποτα. Το μέλλον απλώνεται λαμπρό μπροστά μας. Εκ μέρους όλων των παιδιών της έκτης τάξης, θα ήθελα να ευχαριστήσω όλους τους εκπαιδευτικούς του σχολείου μας για όλα αυτά που μας πρόσφεραν αυτά τα εφτά χρόνια! Ακόμα, θα ήθελα να ευχαριστήσω τους γονείς μας, τους παππούδες και τις γιαγιάδες μας για την αγάπη τους και την φροντίδα τους. Τελειώνοντας, σας εύχομαι να περάσετε απόψε ευχάριστα, να είστε πάντα καλά και καλά Χριστούγεννα.! Σας ευχαριστώ.

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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 the Board of Studies, 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 the Board of Studies



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 the Board of Studies, 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 the Board of Studies, 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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