WACSSO NEWSLETTER
P&C VOICE
P&C VOICE
TERM 4 2023
Ending on a high note So much good news coming from WA P&CS!
WHAT’S INSIDE
As we head into the home stretch for 2023, we know how exhausted many P&C members are feeling. It is the happy exhaustion of knowing you have done all that you can to contribute to your school community.
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S PEN MESSAGE FROM THE EDUCATION MINISTER
Over the year, we have heard lots of good news stories coming out of our P&Cs. Several of these stories are highlighted in this edition of P&C Voice, others have been highlighted on our Facebook page and in our fortnightly eNews publications. We love showcasing the efforts of P&Cs around WA. Not only does it give us a chance to celebrate, it also provides a learning opportunity for those P&C members who might be considering running and event, applying for a grant or submitting a proposal to advocate for their community. Whatever positive change you are looking to enact, there will likely be a peer from whom you can learn. We hope the stories in this publication are useful and interesting.
GOOD NEWS STORIES (SO MANY!!) WACSSO HELPDESK CELEBRATING DLD AWARENESS DAY SIX WAYS TO BUILD POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH CHILDREN: ADVICE FROM TRIPLE P Q&As - FINANCE EDITION NOTICEBOARD: INCOME TAX REFORMS
While the good news stories are one way that we celebrate P&Cs, these are limited to only a few dozen each year. The collective impact of ALL our P&Cs, however, is captured in the vital Annual Contributions Report. This piece of research, undertaken by WACSSO, enables us to provide the strongest possible voice for P&Cs to the State Government and other education leaders. If you haven’t already submitted your P&C data for this Report, click here. Wishing all our P&Cs, families and school communities all the very best for the close of 2023 and a safe and happy summer break. TWITTER
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The Western Australian Council of State School Organisations pays respect to First Nations people and Traditional Custodians throughout Australia, recognising their connection to land, waters and sky. We acknowledge parents, families, Elders and communities as first educators, sharers of culture and knowledge; and recognise the value this learning holds for children and young people.
P&C VOICE
Reflecting on another
incredible year As we prepare to close out another year of volunteer service in our school communities, I’ve been blown away by all the P&C good news stories flooding into the WACSSO Office. From tirelessly advocating for school crossings to raising money for Bike Week, from beautification initiatives to bringing the community together at new events – our P&Cs do it all! Those unfamiliar with the mandate of WA P&Cs think that the bulk of activity undertaken is fundraising. While many P&Cs prioritise fundraising and running events for their school community, there is so much more to what makes P&Cs unique and successful. Each year, we ask all P&Cs to tell us what they have been up to via our Annual Contributions Report. And each year, the collection of your responses evidences the impact made; countless hours spent in the service of your community, millions of dollars raised and invested back into public schools in resources such as books, iPads, sports equipment, playgrounds and facilities.
Our belief, that we are stronger together, is never more evident than when we take a step back and look at everything P&Cs collectively achieved over the school year. Looking ahead to 2024, WACSSO is pleased to be involved in several reviews that will shape public education in WA. Representatives attended the launch of the State School Teacher’s Union WA (SSTUWA) ‘Facing the Facts’ report, led by Dr Carmen Lawrence AO, which calls for immediate action on several vital issues facing families and teachers in our schools. I congratulate SSTUWA on their commissioning of the review and look forward to the government’s response to the recommendations. WACSSO has also provided feedback to the review of post-secondary pathways, with the goal of improving the high school experience, and its outcomes, for our students. Participating in these important advocacy opportunities is high on the WACSSO list of priorities, and we look forward to sharing the results of these initiatives with affiliates.
The hours you spend advocating for the families in your community are evident to our network of State Councillors who are on the ground, listening to your stories and offering advice when needed. We’ve heard about P&Cs who set up a uniform service for families that struggle to purchase a school uniform for their children. We’ve heard about P&Cs who have transformed hot and uninspiring bitumen quadrangles into incredible outdoor classrooms that provide meaningful learning opportunities for students. We’ve heard from countless P&C members who advocate daily for the neurodiverse students in their community and those in their families, and we were proud to represent their voices in our government submissions this year.
Our final State Council of the year (SC5) saw the 2024 future-focused Conference theme of ‘Innovate, Collaborate, Advocate’ endorsed, and planning for another dynamic conference event is well underway. SC5 also saw much loved Councillor for Wheatbelt North, Tanya Gibson, submit her resignation. Many of our affiliates will know Tanya for her passion and advocacy for students in regional and rural schools. Going beyond the school gate, Tanya also raised the challenges being experienced by rural communities. She was a dedicated member of WACSSO’s Training and Development subcommittee and served on the WACSSO Executive team as Vice President and Executive Member. On behalf of State Council, staff and P&Cs I thank Tanya for her service and know she will remain a champion P&Cs and parent engagement.
FROM THE PRESIDENT’S PEN An update from Pania Turner
From our WACSSO family, we wish you all a safe, happy and peaceful festive season and summer break. Please take time out to relax with your families and reflect on another incredible year of making a difference in our schools. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2024.
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P&C VOICE
Message from the Minister As we come to the end of the 2023 school year, it is a time to reflect on the past year and take a moment to appreciate the support of all parents in ensuring we are doing all that we can to make sure that all Western Australian children achieve their potential.
THE HON DR TONY BUTI MLA Minister for Education
We also had a record budget investment, with $6.4 billion for education in 2023-24, an increase of $532 million from 2022-23. This funding includes increased support for students with disability and additional learning needs, as well as new and improved infrastructure across the State.
It has been a big year in Education. We opened four new primary schools and one new secondary school – schools that will meet the needs of our growing communities and provide high quality options for families close to home.
As a runner, I was also very happy to launch the very first Minister’s Running Challenge. The Challenge was a great opportunity for students to experience the joy of running, and I am very happy to announce it will be back in 2024! It was also great to see our schools celebrate and embrace the excitement of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In 2024, we will have an additional two new primary schools and I am very much looking forward to opening Jilbup Primary School and Henley Brook Primary School in the new year! We also announced that we will be building a new inner-city primary school in East Perth, with a target opening date of 2028.
I would also like to congratulate all the Year 12 students and their families for all of their hard work and dedication to their schooling over the last 13 years. Enjoy this special moment in your life and I wish you all the best for future success, whatever you choose to do.
One of my priorities is making sure schools are safe for students and staff to learn. As part of this, we strengthened and implemented a range of initiatives to address violence in schools. We also cracked down on vaping, updating school behaviour policies which include a loss of good standing for students found in possession of a vape, as well mandatory programs for students in Years 5 to 7 that are designed to outline the dangers of vaping. Thank you to WACSSO and all parents for their support of these initiatives.
One of my favourite things that I have been able to do in my first year as Minister for Education, has been being able to visit schools and meet students and staff, as well members of P&C associations. Since stepping into the role last December, I have been able to visit 77 public schools and attend 12 education forums – with more visits scheduled before the term ends. Being able to see firsthand the amazing things our schools are doing has been an absolute highlight for me! And my aim is to top this number next year!
I also launched the Pathways to Post-School Success review, a comprehensive review to ensure that all Western Australian students have the best possible opportunities for future success and that we are providing the pathways that enable this to happen. Complementing this, the School Curriculum and Standards Authority Board is also investigating refreshments to the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) to ensure that it is meeting the needs of senior secondary students.
Schools are the glue that bind our local community – places where futures are forged, and our children find their passion and path in. Thank you for all the work you have done through your P&C Associations to support your school community this year. I wish you all the best for the last few weeks of Term 4. Enjoy the summer holidays and have a safe festive season. PAGE 3
P&C VOICE
Getting to school safely with Beaumaris Primary P&C
I feel so much more comfortable with my kids walking themselves to and from school. It has given them independence and has made the work-school juggle much easier for me.
Beaumaris Primary School is located in a suburban area north of Perth, surrounded by a number of busy roads.
While there is a crosswalk attendant located immediately outside the school, there were no attendants positioned on nearby neighbouring roads to assist with getting children from their homes to school safely. Parents mostly had to accompany their children to school each day to keep them safe, and explaining to children about waiting for a break in the traffic was frequently complicated by some cars choosing to slow down and allow pedestrians to cross and others not slowing at all.
“After we received notification that the application was successful, we had to wait a year before the first signs the crossing was coming – the poles,” said Kate.“ A further 6 months after that, the crosswalk attendant appeared. We weren’t given any warning that the guard was starting, but we were very glad when she did! Our crosswalk guard has experience working at other schools, and she has quickly become a favourite with parents and students. I feel so much more comfortable with my kids walking themselves to and from school. It has given them independence and has made the work-school juggle much easier for me,” she added.
P&C member Kate Long wanted to do something to improve the situation for parents and students, particularly those needing to cross Shenton Avenue. After conducting research online and speaking with the necessary authorities, Kate discovered that the P&C, on behalf of the school, could apply for a Type A crossing. If approved, the crossing would be paid for and staffed by an attendant trained by the police department. The minimum requirement for the application was 20 pedestrians and 200 cars passing the crossing in the hour preceding and immediately after school. After completing the necessary surveys, Kate discovered that between 700-850 cars passed the crossing selected for the application, and between 40 and 75 pedestrians used it. A follow-up survey completed by the local Council confirmed the figures. These numbers made Beaumaris Primary eligible for a staffed pedestrian crossing.
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P&C VOICE
P&C Member, Kate, with the new Beaumaris Primary School crosswalk attendant.
The number of staffed pedestrian crossings around the area, which includes other primary and high schools, has dropped in recent times – from 5 to 3. This concerns local parents who are keen to have resources in place to assist their children with getting to and from school safely. In an area with so many cars on busy roads, it is hoped that more crossing guards can be appointed to fill the gaps. “It isn’t too onerous to apply for a crossing guard, nor does it cost anything,” says Kate. “You just have to persist and be prepared to be patient. It is worth it! Hopefully, more guards will be trained to fill the vacancies as I know a lot of schools and P&Cs have concerns about kids getting to school safely,” she added. The impact that P&Cs can have on schools and their communities isn’t limited to fundraising, sausage sizzles and bake sales! By identifying a problem, researching a solution and then putting in the time to achieve a result, Kate and the P&C have had a real impact on the students and families at Beaumaris Primary. If you have a similar good news story to tell, please get in touch!
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P&C VOICE
It’s the first time our P&C has attempted something like this.
Movie Night Essentials Good News Story from Wanneroo Primary P&C
Wanneroo Primary School P&C recently held its inaugural outdoor movie night for families. The goal was not fundraising but rather to bring the community together and celebrate the year. The event was a huge success, with approximately 100-150 families joining the P&C under the stars to watch Hotel Transylvania 4. To help set the tone the P&C wanted to create for the event, they elected not to charge for entry. Instead of a fee, they asked families to donate a non-perishable food item which will be gifted to local families doing it tough. The screen was hired through a local vendor, and the P&C made popcorn and sold pre-made tubs of fairy floss to generate some income and recoup costs. A coffee van and ice cream van rounded out the on-site catering options. “This was such a great event for our P&C”, said Alison. “It was the first time we’ve attempted an event like this, and the feedback was amazing. The families loved coming to the school ‘under the stars’, and the event definitely achieved our goal of bringing everyone together. I recommend an event like this to any P&C looking to nurture a community vibe at their school,” she added. In the spirit of collaboration, P&C member Alison Grose took to Facebook to share their learning. P&C members who are interested in the full list of vendors can view Alison’s original post in the Facebook group ‘P&C Ideas and Inspiration.’
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P&C VOICE
WACSSO HELP DESK With the end of the year approaching, P&C members are likely feeling a combination of exhilaration and exhaustion. So much was achieved! The long list of things that P&Cs do each and every year is to be celebrated, and you can all be forgiven for wanting and needing a break as we close out the year. Before we know it, however, Term 1 will roll around, bringing with it the AGM and the perennial question “will we get enough members and volunteers?!” Here are some tips for the WACSSO Help Desk to help you start to think ahead.
01
Shout it from the rooftops! Use social media and email lists, and if the school is amenable place notices near each classroom. If you're a parent, chat with other parents at school pickup or school events to spread the word about the P&C. Reach out to former volunteers to see if they'd like to rejoin. Remember that volunteers do not need to have a child enrolled at the school. Be creative with your social media, and make it fun!
02
Get current committee members involved. Encourage current and former committee members to spread the word and reach out to their own networks.
03
Put effort into retaining your current volunteers. Thank volunteers for their time and effort, and make sure they feel valued and supported in their role. There are some great resources to help with volunteer recognition on the Volunteering WA website. Ensure meetings are run efficiently and that the P&C invests as appropriate in software that will assist volunteers in performing their roles well.
04
Be flexible. Offer a variety of volunteer opportunities with different time commitments to accommodate different schedules and interests. Where practical, allow online attendance to meetings and ensure meeting times and regularity will work for most. Importantly, make sure meetings are run efficiently, run to time and are not longer than needed.
05
Emphasise the benefits of volunteering. Highlight the personal benefits of volunteering, such as developing new skills, making new friends and contributing to the community. Ensure everyone knows how essential the P&C is, and that without them, there would be no canteen, uniform shop, school fete, disco, colour run or whatever is particularly popular in your community. Highlight the benefits to students as well helping at school has proven benefits to children's education and social outcomes
06
Make your pitch short, pithy, and clear. Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of the committee. Let potential volunteers know what is expected of them, the time commitment, and what kind of tasks they would be involved in.
07
Last, be BLUNT. Sometimes you just need to tell it as it is. If there are not enough volunteers and members to run fundraising events and initiatives, canteen and uniform shop then these services are under risk and may need to be shut down. The school community need to know this!
More Ideas and Resources
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P&C VOICE
Bike Week Grant Fuels a Range of Initiatives
It became a real community event, bringing everyone together.
A Good News Story from East Victoria Park Primary School and Education Support Centre.
October was Bike Month in WA when many schools and workplaces encouraged people to bike/walk/scoot their commute rather than travel via car. Bike Month was also a great opportunity for schools to teach students about road safety and encourage healthy habits while reducing congestion at drop-off and pick-up times.
Along with the grant, the P&C secured support from a number of other sources, including their local member, Hannah Beazley MLA, who supported and attended Bike-N-Bites. Victoria Park Mayor, Karen Vernon, donated prizes for the best-decorated bikes, scooters and shoes. The P&C worked hard to make the event really special, hosting the Bike-N-Bites on the grassed area at the front of the school, where kids could pick up a healthy treat after commuting, along with a show bag. The show bags and food were made possible through the generous support of additional event sponsors, Action Bell Property and Grove Medical.
The P&C at East Victoria Park Primary School and Education Support Centre held a number of very successful initiatives linked with WA Bike Month. After seeing an article about grants available in WACSSO’s eNews, President Kristy Brown and the P&C team got to work completing the application. As an inner-city school heavily impacted by the changes to public transport and the temporary closure of the rail line, the P&C knew their application would be compelling. The changes to roads and access to the school have been significant, with many families reporting difficulty getting children to school safely.
“This event was such a success,” says P&C President, Kristy. “The buzz outside of the school was amazing! At Bike-N-Bites, kids hung around, chatting together. It became a real community event, bringing everyone together. Parents also hung around to catch up, and many commented on how great it was to see less congestion around the school,” she added.
Sure enough, the P&C application was successful! The P&C used the grant to fund three CycleSense incursions for students at the school. Knowing that some essential information and learning would be needed ahead of the planned bike/walk/scoot to school day, the sessions covered things like hand indicators, how to properly wear a helmet, how to adjust your bike and relevant road hazards. A few days after the incursions, the P&C held its bike/walk/scoot to school event called Bike-NBites. On a regular day, the schools have around 30 kids riding to school. On this day, the P&C estimated that 250 students chose to ride/wall/scoot to school, which is a massive uplift. PAGE 8
P&C VOICE
Fully stacked bike racks at the school following the Bike-and-Bites event.
Since the successful grant application, incursions and Bike-N-Bites event, the Your Move team at the Department of Transport have been in touch with the P&C. It is hoped that due to the success of the initiative from the P&C, and the challenges the community is facing with disruption to public transport, the Your Move team will be able to provide support and advice about safely commuting to school using methods other than car and public transport. “I really think that if we had more bike racks and cages, plus could continue to support the kids with bike education, we’d have more children riding to school,” said Kristy. “We are now making plans for 2024 to capitalise on this success,” she added. P&Cs looking for information on grant opportunities and funding are encouraged to keep an eye on all WACSSO communications channels. WACSSO frequently posts about different options available to schools.
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P&C VOICE
Can you help your community, and those with DLD?
The South East Language Development Centre (SELDC) is there to help children with DLD grow and learn to keep up with the world within the condition they face.
By Sofia Ietto-Conti SELDC P&C President
DLD (Developmental Language Disorder) is often described as the most common disorder that has never been heard of. Recognised in the 19th Century and carrying many different titles since then, DLD is a common condition in our community. It is also a condition that stays with the person for life. Children with DLD struggle with their comprehension, understanding and use of language. Roughly 7% of people have DLD, equating to 2 children in the average classroom. Internationally DLD Day is celebrated on 20 October to raise awareness of the disorder, and to help people recognise how the condition may present in children and adults. The South East Language Development Centre (SELDC) helps children with DLD grow and learn to keep up with the world with the condition they face. The SELDC has sites located in Cloverdale, Maddington & Armadale.
For DLD Day, SELDC celebrations included decorating the school in purple & yellow, enjoying morning tea together, playing games and chatting about DLD and how it affects everyone differently. Also included in the day was arts and crafts for the children to participate in, and the P&C gifted students a DLD bracelet. Outside of the SELDC, DLD Day celebrations included a family picnic arranged by WA RADLD. The Picnic Planning Committee of this event includes various Speech Professionals, and other academic professionals trying to raise awareness. SELDC P&C arranges school families and staff attend this event to enjoy and share how DLD touches our community in different ways.
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P&C VOICE
SELDC P&C and their families celebrating DLD Awareness Day
Throughout the year, the SELDC P&C holds a number of other events and activities. These include Mother’s & Father’s Day stalls which, for us is unique, because for the children are encouraged to use it as an opportunity to use language and engage in dialogue. The school also uses the stall event days as an opportunity to hold workshops for the parents on tools that will assist their children outside the school environment. After these workshops the parents visit the children in their class and do activities using techniques that are shown to help assist children with communication.
At the start of the New Year, the school holds sessions for incoming parents to understand DLD and understand how the school can support them. As students exit, end of year transition workshops are held with families to ease the return to mainstream. The following year the LDC holds sessions with these mainstream schools to help their teachers understand DLD and how to integrate the child into their classroom. Other workshops held include Information Mornings and Inductions, which the P&C assists with by talking to new parents about what it’s like to have a child with DLD at the school.
During Book Week, the SELDC gifts each child a book, so all our children get the opportunity to read and grow their understanding of language. The world of books opens the imagination and exposes children to amazing ways to use language. With their condition, our children struggle to read, and this simple act provides motivation for them open a book and embrace this growth.
Fortunately, there is a Facebook group called Australian Developmental Language Disorder Australia, which is a parent-led support group where they discus therapy, research, funding and generally lend a non-judgmental ear. But there still needs to work done to have a governing body that is dedicated to being able to provide ongoing support to parents and care givers around DLD.
The SELDC starts at Kindergarten and runs through to Year 3. Most children will transition from LDC to mainstream between Year 1 and Year 2.
Links: Raising Awareness of DLD SELDC DLD (Wikipedia) The DLD Project DLD Australia Facebook group
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P&C VOICE
SIX WAYS TO BUILD STRONG CONNECTIONS WITH CHILDREN
Connecting with kids is crucial for their social, emotional, and cognitive development. It helps them thrive at home, in school, and beyond. But, for busy parents, it can be a struggle to create those special bonding moments. The good news is, it doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program® has practical tips to strengthen your relationship and help kids develop life skills, benefiting families and school communities as a whole.
Emotional support: Your reactions to their feelings matter, and being emotionally tuned in, listening and responding calmly can help them understand and regulate their own emotions. Calm, consistent support also helps kids explore the world with confidence, knowing they have a supportive adult to turn to. Boundaries: This doesn't mean being rigid or inflexible. It’s more about keeping things predictable and stable in their daily life, which helps children to feel secure. For little ones, simple rules around sharing and being polite can work wonders. As they grow up, boundaries become more complex, like setting some limits on screen time or having a curfew.
Show genuine interest: When kids approach you with something to tell, try to give them your full attention, be curious and listen. These little moments can help kids to feel more secure and confident coming back to you in the future, keeping your connection strong.
Routines: Having a routine in place can make everyone feel more relaxed and prepared, especially during busy times like getting out the door on time for school. Involving your family in creating these routines can help create a calmer environment and positive interactions.
Play and be playful: Try carving out some time to do something you both enjoy. Make everyday activities more playful by singing, telling stories, or just cracking jokes. Playful interactions can build strong bonds and send a positive message to children: I’m glad you’re here, and I like being with you.
Take care of yourself: Life can get hectic and it's easy to prioritise the needs of others over your own. Taking time to recharge your own batteries is not selfish. It can actually help you to feel more calm, present and engaged with your kids, boosting your connection now and for years to come. PAGE 12
DID YOU KNOW?
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Want to see the difference that positive parenting can make in your school community? Encourage parents and carers to register for a free Triple P program today.
You can support families by recommending Triple P’s free online support. For resources and promotional assistance for your school community: contact@triplep.net
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Triple P International acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We respectfully acknowledge Elders, past and present who continue to guide us with their wisdom on our journey to support and build strong healthy families.
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P&C VOICE
A Community Celebration 100 years in the making
Our school community is just so wonderful, and I feel very honoured to have been a part of this celebration
Good News Story from Cowaramup Primary School P&C.
Earlier this year, Cowaramup Primary School celebrated their 100-year birthday. The celebrations spanned an entire week, with events and activities ranging from displays of photos and memorabilia to a full school photo, and from a dress-up day and oldfashioned games to a full school colour run! Naturally, there was a huge birthday cake, shared by 400 staff and students, after a collective sing-along to Happy Birthday. The whole community got involved in the celebrations. Locals who attended the school in years past provided materials for the photo and memorabilia display, and alumni addressed the school assembly with stories of what it was like as a Cowaramup student ‘back in their day!’ Even Maggie Dent made a special effort to pop in and celebrate the milestone with her grandchildren, who are enrolled at Cowaramup Primary. The P&C was heavily involved in the celebrations, providing funding for the cake and everything needed for the full school sausage sizzle. One of the biggest contributions of the P&C was actively fundraising (through the Colour Run and a school disco) to provide a beautiful new mural for the entrance to the school. The mural was painted by Jerome Davenport and has received rave reviews from the school and community.
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P&C VOICE
Drone footage of all the community forming a giant 100 on the school oval.
"We had the best week celebrating our school's 100th birthday,” said P&C President, Rebecca Mann. “From birthday cake to sausage sizzles, our very first Colour Run, and so many dress-ups, the whole school community had so much fun! My favourite part was seeing our beautiful new mural being created and watching the children being so fascinated by the artistic process. There was always a group of kids "supervising" the artist’s work, and they loved watching it come together. Personally, I am so proud of the way all the parents came together to support all the activities that the school put on for our kids. We had so many parent volunteers help with our Colour Run, and the effort they went to for dressing our kids up in different outfits days in a row was so good! Our school community is just so wonderful, and I feel very honoured to have been a part of this celebration," she added. Well done to all involved in this milestone celebration and thank you for sharing your good news story! PAGE 15
P&C VOICE
Beautification project injects colour and fun
We hope our students take pride in knowing they have been a part of the creation of the mural which will stay visible on school grounds for many years to come.
By Jocelyn Hobbs High Wycombe Primary School P&C VP & Artist
This year, the High Wycombe Primary School P&C has been fundraising for their ‘beautification project.’ This has involved looking at ways to add some colour, fun and interactivity within the school environment, while lifting the aesthetic on the grounds. As part of the project, the P&C are also looking at getting local artists to paint murals, adding positive messaging in the form of decal stickers to the bathroom blocks, and refreshing the undercover areas with new line work for increased rainy day play options. One of the facilities chosen for beautification was the storage containers on the school oval. The local Little Athletics club stores their equipment in two the shipping containers, which the P&C saw as a blank canvas.
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P&C VOICE
Jocelyn with the sea container mural
“The shipping containers presented a unique opportunity to bring some colour and school spirit in the form of a mural,” said P&C Vice President, Jocelyn, who is also a local artist. The mural she designed for this project includes input from every student and staff member in the school. “The design is a flowing, river-like shape, full of movement and energy, just like our kids, incorporating all four faction colours on a charcoal black background,” added Jocelyn.
With donations of paint and supplies from their local Bunnings and Dulux Paint, the P&C held busy bees over several weekends, with volunteers coming down to clean, base coat and finally apply over 800 hand templates. Standing back on the final day, watching a team of parents and students work together, have a few laughs and create something amazing, was the sense of community the P&C were hoping to achieve. Mission accomplished!
The shape is formed by hundreds of handprints to give the overall effect, which demonstrates the team spirit of factions that, when bought together, forms something even more wonderful - the school community.
The week after the project was completed, the school held its athletics carnival, which provided the perfect opportunity to present the first mural to the whole school community.
“We hope our students take pride in knowing they have been a part of the creation of the mural which will stay visible on school grounds for many years to come,” said Jocelyn.
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P&C VOICE
Q&A 01
tion i d eE c n a Fin
DOES A TREASURER’S REPORT NEED TO BE PRESENTED AT EVERY GENERAL MEETING?
02
CAN A P&C USE A DEBIT CARD?
03 Every day, the WACSSO office receives enquiries from P&C members about the running of their P&C Association. The following are just some of the questions asked with answers that may be helpful to your Association.
01 02
03
WHO ARE THE PERMITTED SIGNATORIES ON P&C ACCOUNTS?
BOOK YOUR P&C TRAINING NOW! Term One, 2024 metro and regional training sessions now available.
Yes, a P&C may resolve to use a debit card. Please use WACSSO's Debit Card Guide to make sure the debit card is implemented and used in compliance with the P&C Constitution.
The WACSSO training team is currently planning their Term 1 2024 schedule. Check our website for existing sessions that may be suitable for you to join, or email the team directly to organise and time that suits your Committee.
Yes, refer to P&C Constitution Rule 17.11, "Presenting a written financial statement showing the current financial position of the Association to each General Meeting of the Association." This is a duty of the Honorary Treasurer.
Don’t forget that training is included in your affiliate fees - there are no additional costs to P&Cs to attend training.
All Office Bearers (listed below) are required to be signatories on the P&C account. One other Executive Committee member may be elected at the AGM to be a fifth (optional) signatory. President Vice President Honorary Secretary Honorary Treasurer The Principal cannot be a signatory (rule 6.4).
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P&C VOICE
NOTICE BOARD
Enhancing the transparency of income tax exemption reform
From 1 July 2023, not-for-profit (NFP) entities with an active Australian business number (ABN) are required to lodge an annual self-review return to access income tax exemption. Announced as part of the 2021-22 Federal Budget the new measure is intended to enhance transparency and integrity in the system, by ensuring only eligible NFPs access income tax exemption. The annual self-review return will need to be lodged between 1 July and 31 October 2024. NFPs are encouraged to prepare for this change before 1 July 2024. Commencing your annual self-review process early will assist your organisation determine its income tax exemption eligibility and ensure you have everything you need to lodge.
There are a range of actions you can take today to start getting ready for the new annual self-review reporting obligations, including: ensuring your primary contact and ABN details are up to date setting up your myGovID and Online Services for business reviewing and updating your governing documents; and, subscribing to the ATO’s NFP Newsletter for regular updates and to stay informed about the new reporting requirements. Lodging the new annual self-review return does not apply to a Government entity or NFPs that are already a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-forprofits Commission.
More Information
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P&C VOICE
A VacSwim advocacy win for Wellstead Primary School P&C
This outcome is the perfect example of what schools, P&Cs and the community can achieve through collaboration to benefit the local children.
Wellstead is a community situated 100 kilometres east of Albany, within the Albany city boundary.
Wellstead Primary School is a vibrant, friendly and student-focused school. It is located approximately 18kms from Cape Riche, and fishing, swimming and beach studies form a natural part of the school's curriculum. Many families also take advantage of the annual Vacation Swimming (VacSwim) programs offered over the summer holidays at Cape Riche.
P&C member Lisa Bone was notified of media interest in the situation and became the spokesperson for the parent appeal, which led to an independent reviewer visiting Cape Riche and assessing the beach as a venue for VacSwim lessons.
In the middle of this year, the Wellstead Progress Association Secretary, who is also a caretaker at Cape Riche, was advised in their capacity as caretaker that the City of Albany would not run VacSwim over the summer period. The reason given for cancelling the program was beach safety, specifically a concern regarding dogs and cars on the beach.
“The reviewer spoke with teachers, community members, parents, the City of Albany and local MLA Rebecca Stephens,” said Lisa. “There was overwhelming support from the community for the lessons to run. The report from the reviewer came back that small changes were needed, including better signage, and once complete, the lessons could be scheduled for the summer as planned. We are thrilled!” she added.
Once the P&C and parents were aware that VacSwim would not run at Cape Riche this summer, they sprung to action. P&C President Tristan Stanich, along with many parents, wrote letters to the City of Albany, to local Councillors and to their local member, Ms Rebecca Stephens MLA. The crux of the feedback from parents was that the closure of lessons was not justified, particularly because cars do not use the beach during the time VacSwim runs and that swimming lessons had run from this venue for many years with no incident.
Minister Stephens was a strong advocate for reversing the decision, raising it as a grievance in Parliament. As a former swimming teacher, she was able to speak authentically about the opportunities VacSwim provides for the children of Wellstead.
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P&C VOICE
VacSwim lessons in action at Cape Riche
VacSwim classes at Cape Riche are typically full, with around 30-35 children learning to swim at the beach. The momentum and support for the project to re-instate lessons at Cape Riche brought out a strong sense of community in Wellstead, and the success of the advocacy efforts is due to everyone speaking up and showing their support.
The school and the P&C are grateful that one of their members brought the news of VacSwim closures to a meeting, thus launching the campaign to reverse the decision. It is the perfect example of what schools, P&Cs and the community can achieve through collaboration to benefit the local children.
“We even had some of the retired farmers get together and submit a letter of support for the lessons to continue. They submitted the letter to their local Nationals Party representative. It was touching to have their support, especially as many of them were involved in getting the lessons established in the first place,” said Lisa. Wellstead Primary parents, and parents from neighbouring towns, are once again looking forward to summer mornings on the beach, networking and sharing experiences as the kids learn to swim. And the kids are excited to get back in the water.
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P&C VOICE
Transforming outdoor spaces
This project has been made possible due to the support of our incredible community.
A good news story from Curtin Primary School.
Curtin Primary School P&C recently unveiled their incredible new mural, created by local artist Renee Parnell and the graduating Class of 2023. The mural, measuring 8 square meters, is the finishing touch on a project started by the School Council earlier this year. The project involved the complete renovation of a stark, bitumen quadrangle, where temperatures soared to 40 degrees on mild spring days, to a beautiful, welcoming outdoor classroom that provides meaningful learning opportunities. The mural now sits proudly at the end of the outdoor learning space, visible to all who visit, and is a permanent reminder of the Class of 2023.
Featuring native flowers in vibrant colours, the mural design links explicitly to what is planted in the outdoor classroom. The mural and the classroom both also link to the school’s Coolangahs Kaartdijin Program, which is a feature of Curtin Primary School’s curriculum. The multiage program facilitates student learning about local flora and fauna and aspects of the local Noongar culture and language while making connections and friends from outside of their year level.
The idea for the artwork came from a discussion among P&C members who had been involved in painting a mural as part of community art project at a local cafe. “Once the outdoor classroom project was finished, we could see that the library wall, which faces the area, would be perfect for a mural,” said Rebecca Brockman, P&C President. “It was the first time our P&C had attempted a project like this, but with help from the artist, Renee Parnell, and our parents, we have turned our idea into a reality. Renee encouraged us to apply for sponsorship through Dulux and our local Bunnings, which we successfully did, plus we received funding from our local government. One of our dads, who is a builder, helped to install the mural. Now that it is installed, the space is complete, and the artwork's impact is absolutely incredible,” she added.
The mural was completed over three weeks, with the Year 6 students working in teams of 3-4 in 30-40 minute sessions. The finished artwork provides a permanent, lasting contribution to the school from the cohort and creating the artwork has provided the Year 6 students with incredible, lifelong memories. Curtin Primary School held the mural unveiling and opening of the outdoor classroom in midNovember and the event attracted parents and community members, including Renee Parnell (artist, wrenscape creative), Geoff Baker MLA (member for South Perth), Mayor Greg Milner (City of South Perth), Mike Bradford (CEO, City of South Perth) and Catrina Aniere (CEO, Millennium Kids Inc).
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P&C VOICE
Project team and students
“This project has been made possible due to the support of our incredible community,” said Rebecca. “The artist, Renee, who is incredibly community-minded and was a true partner in this project. One of our parents (and P&C member), Kelly Muller - is an artist - and she and Renee collaborated together on design and student involvement. Significant donations from Dulux and the City of South Perth, combined with the donation of time and expertise by one of Dads, Chris Meiers, for the installation - were instrumental in our ability to deliver the project”. The P&C is so thrilled with the end result, and we thank all those involved,” she added. The final result at Curtin Primary School is both a fantastic new space for the students and a lasting reminder of what can be achieved when the community comes together around a common goal.
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P&C VOICE
Recognition for family engagement excellence
As part of this strong community focus, we can now say we enjoy the highest level of parent engagement in our school’s history.
A good news story from South Thornlie Primary School
Each year, the Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) run the national Sue Ryan Family Engagement Awards. For these awards, ACSSO defines family engagement as “an intentional and collaborative strategy to support and leverage the knowledge, capacities, and social capital of families to improve learning and wellbeing outcomes for all children and young people (Family, School and Community Partnerships Bureau (2014)”. The awards are named after Sue Ryan in acknowledgment of her commitment to education and to engaging parents and families. This year, two of the finalists for these awards were WA schools, Makybe Rise Primary School and South Thornlie Primary School. South Thornlie Primary was nominated due to the partnerships it has developed over the past few years with parents, students and the wider community. South Thornlie developed a “think, consider and consult” approach to achieve their partnership initiative. While the temptation with partnerships may be to jump in, the school wanted to ensure there was consultation first and the broader ramifications were considered. The school developed a partnership consideration and consultation framework following discussion with staff and the Board. This tool reviewed all possible partnerships in areas such as alignment to school direction, advantages for the school and agency, and how consultation will occur with the Board, staff and school community. Other framework considerations included how the partnership value adds to Business Plan targets in line with school values, benefits to the partnership and school, costs, in-kind expectations, time commitments needed, possible challenges, sustainability, communication and evaluation. PAGE 24
Understanding that they were located in an area with rich cultural diversity, the school prioritised creating cultural connections with families while also building stronger relationships between school and family for the benefit of the students. The goals of the program were many, including an elevation of NAPLAN results, reducing suspensions, increasing attendance, improving school culture and, importantly, enhancing student engagement and wellbeing. The premise behind achieving all these goals, which were linked to the school’s strategic plan, was that by developing meaningful, authentic partnerships with parents and the wider community, success would follow. The partnership project involved three main phases: exploration (identifying possibilities, defining priorities and consulting), implementation (allocating resources, finding the right people, documenting and scoping the work, conducting partnership meetings) and evaluation and sustainability (analysis of data, ongoing selfreview, documenting outcomes). Within the project, partnerships were chosen that enhanced curriculum, responded to student needs and improved parent engagement and support.
P&C VOICE
Megan Barnett accepting the finalist nomination certificate the Awards Night
“Our parents have responded so positively to the partnership approach we have taken,” says South Thornlie Principal, Megan Barnett. “Encouraging parents to be true partners and not feel like bystanders in the educational experience we offer at the school leads to longterm positive outcomes. Our aim is to help parents identify and capitalise on their ability to transform their child’s educational experience by partnering with the school, and the results have been really special,” she added.
Beyond the parent partnerships, the school has also engaged with other community organisations, TAFEs and universities and formed partnerships with schools overseas. The enrichment provided to students, staff and parents through the additional opportunities these partnerships bring will provide life-long benefits. Additionally, the project has had a tangible, positive impact on measures such as NAPLAN scores, student wellbeing surveys and attendance data.
The school has offered a diverse range of supports and activities to build engagement with parents, including social work support, behaviour management support, Justice Link, EALD parent English classes, Sporting skills workshops, special celebration events such as NAIDOC Week and Harmony Day, mindfulness days, an Aboriginal Dreamtime storybook program, a Noongar outdoor learning program and parent events.
Congratulations, South Thornlie Primary School, on your nomination for the Sue Ryan Family Engagement Award and, importantly, for all the incredible work you do in the parent engagement space. The words of the South Thornlie Primary School Board Chair sum up the success of this program perfectly: “As part of this strong community focus, we can now say we enjoy the highest level of parent engagement in our school’s history."
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P&C VOICE
The project raised funds for the school and created stronger links between the P&C and local businesses, which was great
Boddington’s Biggest Raffle A good news story from Boddington District High School P&C
Each November, Boddington is home to the very popular Rodeo Weekend. The population of the town swells, with around 10,000 extra people visiting to enjoy the event annually. Boddington District High School P&C wanted to capitalize on this event and, back in February, started planning a raffle with the goal of selling as many tickets as possible to provide additional funds for the completion of the nature play area.
The nature play area was opened the week before the Rodeo Weekend, which meant local and visiting families could enjoy the facilities they helped to fund with their support of the raffle. The P&C has been selling tickets all year, including at the election sausage sizzle, but with close to 15,000 people in town for the rodeo, this event was definitely the biggest opportunity to raise funds. The 300 students at the school are very excited about the new play area, and the P&C team, who closed out the year with the raffle AND a colour run, are very much looking forward to a welldeserved break over the summer!
While the Boddington P&C is lean (only 4 Office Bearers and a handful of other members), they are ambitious and over the first half of the year, they sent out letters to over 40 local businesses asking for support for the P&C raffle. Businesses responded positively, giving what they could, with donations ranging from $50-$500. Collectively, with the donations received, the P&C was able to offer very enticing prizes for the raffle: first prize was an $1850 Funky Monkey Bars voucher, second prize a $1000 Crown voucher, third prize a BBQ and $500 Coles voucher and forth prize $800 to spend in local Boddington businesses. “This raffle was the biggest one we have done, and we are thrilled to have raised over $14,000 to contribute to the school’s new nature play area,” said P&C President Jemma Vance. “We’ve been working on this project for most of the year, and to see all the hard work pay off has been really rewarding. The project not only raised funds for the school but also created stronger links between the P&C and local businesses, which was great,” she added.
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P&C VOICE
School Holiday Road Safety A Message from the team at the Department of Education Road Safety and Drug Education Unit
With the end of the school year fast approaching, more children and young people will be out and about on our roads over the coming months. For younger children, this means walking, riding or scooting around their local neighbourhood, while for older children, this may be riding an eScooter.
eScooters Many families may be considering buying an eScooter over the school holidays. While these devices offer a fun travel alternative, it’s important that parents know the laws that apply in Western Australia before purchasing an eRideable.
Children and young people are vulnerable road users because: their smaller size can make it difficult for drivers to see them. they may have difficulty judging the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles. they may get easily distracted.
You can help make every journey safe by: only allowing people 16 years or older to ride eScooters. only riding eScooters that meet the speed, size and weight limits. always sticking to one person per device always wear a helmet.
Parents can help arm their children with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe while walking, riding or scooting.
For further information on the rules and regulations that apply to eScooters and other eRideables click here.
They can do this by: holding their hand when crossing the road supervising them around traffic. encouraging them to use ‘stop, look, listen, think’ before they cross the road. role model safe behaviours, such as: a. not using a mobile phone or headphones. b. wearing a helmet and other protective equipment.
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P&C VOICE
WACSSO STATE COUNCILLORS
PRESIDENT Pania Turner 0477 644 000
The Western Australian Council of State School Organisations Inc. (WACSSO) State Council is made up of a 20 elected Councillors and a President, all of whom are volunteers. The State Council meets several times a year to discuss educational issues of interest to Parents and Citizens' Associations (P&Cs), determine the direction of WACSSO and to influence the broad direction of education for the benefit of students.
SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT CANNING - EAST Scott Mosey GREAT SOUTHERN Julie Brooks 0429 016 253
0401 637 716
CANNING - NORTH
CANNING - WEST
Julia Fong 0403 132 119
Chelsea Walker 9264 4000
GOLDFIELDSESPERANCE Katherine Loader 0408 949 847
JOONDALUP- EAST
JOONDALUP - WEST
MIDWEST
PEEL NORTH
PEEL SOUTH
PERTH NORTH
Rob Fairholme 0435 779 801
Tony Osborne 0419 925 701
Paula Steenson 0409 076 476
Michael Montgomery 0422 923 768
Vivienne Cantem 0447 297 156
Sharyn Morris 0498 994 221
SOUTH-WEST
SWAN WEST
Esmond Delaney 0409 370 016
Indah Yildiz 0412 595 576
VICE-PRESIDENT WHEATBELT - SOUTH
VICE-PRESIDENT PERTH SOUTH Anne Fairbanks 0411 256 079
FREMANTLE
NORTH WEST
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Kate Hayes-Thompson 0458 830 000
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P&C Voice is the official publication of the Western Australian Council of State School Organisations Inc. (WACSSO) President: Pania Turner PO Box 6295 East Perth 5892 | 151 Royal Street East Perth 6004 p (08) 9264 4000 f (08) 9264 4948 e info@wacsso.wa.edu.au wacsso.wa.edu.au Contibutions from individuals and affiliates are welcome