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# Parents Victoria

Parents Victoria advocates for fair, simple and transparent funding of State Schools because the current school funding model does not provide adequately for our most vulnerable students.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Volunteering survey](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/volunteering-survey/) - We are well aware of the huge contribution parent volunteers make to Victorian schools. But is volunteering in decline? Recent public commentary suggests volunteering is becoming more difficult. Parents Victoria has developed a survey that aims to identify what is working well and what factors might be impacting on parents' ability to volunteer. We are
- [Fete stall ideas](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/fete-stall-ideas/) - A school fete can be a wonderful community event - and a great fundraiser! But how do you make your fete interesting and different? We found lots of ideas on the "Fundraising Whisperer" website - from competitions and games you can set up yourself, to sponsorship opportunities, creative activities and events such as the "Cow
- [Fuel & the 'school run' - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/fuel-the-school-run-pv-media-comment/) - The Age has published an article about the predicted surge in demand for fuel as children return to school on Monday. The article begins, "The return to class of more than a million Victorian schoolchildren from Monday will send demand for petrol and diesel soaring by up to 20 per cent, fuel retailers say, as
- [Assaults in schools - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/assaults-in-victorian-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun has published on article about the increase in violent incidents in Victorian schools over the last 3 years. According to the article, "Assaults in Victorian schoolyards have tripled in three years and secret documents have revealed shocking rates of violence... About 17 students are physically or sexually assaulted or threatened by their classmates
- [Extended device ban - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/extended-device-ban-pv-media-comment/) - ABC News reported recently on the extension of Victoria's device ban in schools. Students were banned from bringing smartphones to public schools in 2020, and the ban is now being widened. The article begins: The Victorian government is extending the device ban in Victorian classrooms to include smartwatches and headphones. The device ban will also
- [Industrial action in schools - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/industrial-action-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in an article in today's Age about the industrial action by teachers, planned for tomorrow (24 March). Gail was also interviewed by Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Melbourne and quoted by ABC News (see below). The Age article begins: A last-minute plea for teachers not to walk out
- [Industrial action in schools - our view](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/industrial-action-in-schools-our-view/) - Teachers' industrial action - our view Parents Victoria has released a Position Statement regarding the upcoming industrial action by the Australian Education Union scheduled for 24 March. In its statement, Parents Victoria acknowledges the disruption that industrial action may cause for families, while also recognising the important issues being raised, including teacher workforce sustainability and
- [Voluntary contributions - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/voluntary-contributions-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age examines the 'moral dilemma' facing Victorian public schools - they know that many parents cannot afford to pay voluntary parent payments, but because of under-funding, the school relies on the parent payments for basics such as stationery, maintenance staff and first aid supplies. The article quotes Katrina Walker, School council
- [New school reports - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-school-reports-pv-media-comment/) - Today's Age reports on recently announced changes to Victorian school reports. The article begins: Victorian government schools are set to revamp student reports by cutting out jargon and useless information in an attempt to reduce the paperwork burden on teachers and principals. The Department of Education hopes simpler and easier versions of a range of
- ["Complete misuse" of NAPLAN for entry assessment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/complete-misuse-of-naplan-for-entry-assessment/) - The CEO of the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA), Stephen Gniel has spoken out against the use of NAPLAN results as an entrance assessment by private schools and select-entry government schools. ACARA designs and administers NAPLAN across Australia. In an article in today's Age, Mr Gniel is quoted as saying: “I think it
- [School costs - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-costs-pv-media-comment-3/) - Recent media stories in The Age and Herald-Sun have reported on the high costs of schooling in Victoria. Both articles refer to a recent report from ACARA, the National Report on Schooling in Australia. While the ACARA report covers both public and private schools, parents at public schools may be particularly interested in the following
- [How schools and early childhood services keep kids safe during emergencies](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/how-schools-and-early-childhood-services-keep-kids-safe-during-emergencies/) - Keeping children safe is the highest priority for schools and early childhood services. This includes during periods of increased bushfire and emergency risk when schools and services work to protect children. At times, this may include relocations or closures. The Department of Education assesses the bushfire risk of all schools and early childhood services in
- [School costs - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-costs-pv-media-comment-2/) - Articles in today's Age and Herald-Sun focus on the issue of under-funding of Victorian schools. The Age article begins: Parents, teachers and principals at Victorian public schools are being forced to spend their own money to fill funding gaps, as school allocations per child continue to lag way below the rest of the nation. Average
- [Schoolyard Stories fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/schoolyard-stories-fundraiser-2/) - We noticed this fundraiser with a difference on our friend Mandy's 'Fundraising Whisperer' website. With the Schoolyard Stories, fundraiser, you can create your own books, and then sell them as a fundraiser. Possibilities include: Storybooks - Students write and illustrate stories, and they are compiled into a high-quality book of short stories. Cookbooks - collect
- [Student-free days: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/student-free-days-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age focuses on a call from the Australian Education Union (AEU) for more student-free days at public schools, to allow teachers more time for curriculum and professional development. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the article (see below). According to the article, "Victorian public school teachers want twice as
- [Back-to-school message from Parents Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/back-to-school-message-from-parents-victoria/) - Welcome to a new school year! We hope the summer break provided opportunities for rest, reconnection and enjoyment with family and friends. We are also deeply mindful that for some school communities, the holidays were once again marked by fires and floods. To those affected, we acknowledge the disruption, loss and ongoing recovery challenges you
- [Vic schools "stone cold last"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vic-schools-stone-cold-last/) - An article by Chip LeGrand in today's Age lays out the cold, hard facts about school funding in Victoria - we have the worst funded government schools in Australia. According to the article: Every other state and the ACT have inked long-term agreements with Canberra that set out when and how they will deliver 100
- [Expulsions: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/expulsions-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in an article in the Age today, about the issue of school expulsions. The article notes that 236 students were expelled from Victorian public schools in 2024 (the most recent data available). This was less than 2023, when there were over 266 expulsions. Gail is quoted in the
- [Religious knives in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/religious-knives-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article yesterday stating that, "A loophole in Victorian law is allowing certain students to bring knives to school, despite the type being used in a recent NSW school stabbing." The article refers to the kirpan, a knife that initiated Sikhs are required to carry at all times by their religion. The issue has become controversial since
- [Student 'climate strike' - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/student-climate-strike-pv-media-comment/) - Today's Herald-Sun has an article about the planned "Schools strike 4 climate" on Friday. The article focuses on a 'Climate Doctor's Certificate' that students can personalise and download. The 'certificate' is signed by University of Melbourne and Australian National University climate scientists David Karoly and Nick Abel. According to the article, "Students chucking a sicky
- [School uniform - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-pv-media-comment-2/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy was interviewed on ABC Radio Melbourne's Drive program yesterday, on the issue of school uniform. Host Ali Moore reminded listeners of the change to uniform rules announced last year, that allows students at Victorian public schools to wear non logoed below-the-waist uniform items e.g. shorts, pants, skirts, socks. Parents Victoria
- [Test](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/test/) - TEST CUSTOM BUTTON Share this post Share on facebook Share on google Share on twitter Share on linkedin Share on pinterest Share on print Share on email
- [Research: Public vs private](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/research-public-schools-are-just-as-good-as-private/) - New research shows that public schools do just as well as private schools, after differences in socio-economic background of students are considered. A recent study published by reseearchers at the University of New England found that, after taking account of the different socio-economic background of students, private schools are not associated with higher average student achievement in standardized literacy and
- [Effect of the lockdown on children: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/effect-of-the-lockdown-on-children-pv-media-comment/) - According to a report on 3AW, new research has found that two thirds of Victorian parents are worried about their child’s education after the state’s extended lockdown. An Australian National University study found 43 per cent of parents surveyed in other states, which did not experience such lengthy school shutdowns, are concerned about their child’s
- [Our achievements for 2020](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/our-achievements-for-2020/) - 2020 has been another busy year for Parents Victoria. We wanted to bring you a snapshot of our achievements for the year. Major Events Parents Victoria (October) 2020 online conference - "Brave New World" November Careers Webinar in partnership with Myfuture (Education Services Australia). Who we worked with Department of Education Australian Council of State
- [Masks at school: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/masks-at-school-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reports today that students returning to school this week have been told to carry a mask at all times, but they will only be “recommended” when in class. According to the article, Education Minister James Merlino on Thursday confirmed the controversial coverings would not be “mandatory in schools, but it’s recommended if you
- [Colour explosion Fun Run](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/colour-explosion-fun-run/) - Check out the Colour Explosion Fun Run from Australian Fundraising - it's a Fun Run with a difference!
- [Quick and easy fundraisers](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/quick-and-easy-fundraisers/) - Our friend Mandy at Fundraising Directory has put together a list of quick and easy fundraisers that you can get underway without too much fuss: 5 cent Challenge – Very easy to set up with very little outlay and a nice easy way to kick off the year. More details on Mandy's website. Guessing games - Games like ‘how
- [Car Boot Sale as a fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/car-boot-sale-as-a-fundraiser/) - A Car Boot Sale can be a fun way to raise some money. Thanks to Mandy from Fundraising Directory for these tips: Make certain you have relevant permits - if you're planning to hold the car boot sale outside the school grounds, check with your council. Charge a fixed amount per car and let your families
- [Baby Photos](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/baby-photos/) - How about running a 'baby photos of the staff' competition for your school? Entry can be a gold coin and the baby photos of the staff are put up on a big board. Students fill in an entry form to see who wins. A great way to bring the students and teachers together, while also
- [Covid-friendly Fundraising](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/fundraising-with-covid-restrictions/) - Many Parent Clubs will be asking, “How can we fundraise in this time of reduced incomes and constantly changing Covid restrictions?” Our friend Mandy the Fundraising Whisperer has some answers. She has published a list of ‘Covid-friendly’ fundraisers that she says will still work in these difficult times. Tea-towels, books, gifts with kids’ artwork on them…
- [Schoolyard safety](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/schoolyard-safety/) - A recent article in the Herald-Sun is a timely reminder of schools' and parents' responsibility to keep children safe on play equipment. According to the article, more than 1,000 primary school students injure themselves in the schoolyard each year, with monkey-bars and climbing frames causing 70 per cent of injuries. PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted
- [Parent payments: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-payments-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today that Victorian state school families spent more than $400 million last year in “parent payments” on education essentials. This is equal to $619 in parental payments per child every year. The article also points out that schools in socio-econonically advantaged areas are able to collect much more in parent payments than those in disadvantaged areas.
- [Are the "school funding wars" over?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/are-the-school-funding-wars-over/) - Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge recently commented that "the school funding wars are over." According to this article in The Guardian, "The reality of his strange declaration of victory is seven-and-a-half-years of neglect." The article details how public schools have been denied billions of needed funding over four years as the federal Coalition government systematically
- [School maintenance boost](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-maintenance-boost/) - Education Minister James Merlino has announced a $10.4 million funding package for much-needed maintenance to 230 Victorian schools. The funding will be used for a range of maintenance work such as plumbing, painting, resurfacing floors and replacing windows, as well as external landscaping works including pathways and lighting. See the Minister's announcement Download a list
- [NAPLAN controversy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/naplan-controversy/) - You may have noticed an article in News Corp publications a few weeks ago, claiming that: “Parents will be kept in the dark about school NAPLAN rankings under a new ban on “league tables”. The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) has banned schools and the media from publishing comparisons of performance in national
- [School funding: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in an article from yesterday's Age about school funding. Gail responds to Federal Education MInister Alan Tudge's recent comments rejecting the link between increased school funding and better student performance. Gail said that public schools continued to be underfunded in comparison with non-government schools that receive significant federal funding.
- [Tudge fudges school results and funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tudge-fudges-school-results-funding/) - Save Our Schools says that Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge "resorted to fudging figures to denigrate Australia’s school performance at the Age education summit last week". Mr Tudge claimed that the UK has improved student outcomes while cutting school funding. However SOS says he ignored serious flaws in the reporting of its results and fudged data on
- [Suspended and disqualified teachers: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/suspended-and-disqualified-teachers-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reported today that "Teachers are being dumped from classrooms at an alarming rate..." The article states that over 70 teachers have been suspended or disqualified by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) since 2019. The reasons included sex, drug and violence offences. The article quotes a VIT spokeswoman as saying that new levels of community
- [Lockdown: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/lockdown-pv-media-comment/) - PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy was quoted in a Herald-Sun article today, titled Home schooling Melbourne lockdown: Parents guide to home teaching. Gail said she wanted to emphasise to all parents and carers in Lockdown 4 (which we she hopes is a very short stint) to do the best they can with what they can. "Every household is different,
- [Disqualified teacher: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/disqualified-teacher-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published a report yesterday (22 June) about a Catholic primary school teacher who has had his registration cancelled and has been disqualified from teaching by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT). PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said the register was important to protect children. “The royal commissions have taught us
- [Equity in schooling: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/equity-in-schooling-pv-media-comment/) - Research quoted in an article in today's Herald-Sun shows that there is a strong link between the socio-economic status of a school's community, and the NAPLAN scores of its students. The article points out that this effect crosses the public/private divide - government schools in affluent areas may out-perform expensive private schools. Parents Victoria Executive Officer Gail
- [Drug use by school students: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/drug-use-by-school-students-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article today about increasing use of the drug ketamine by Victorian school students. PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail's commentary on this issue, as supplied to the Herald-Sun, is given here in full: "Drugs, alcohol and vaping remain an issue for schools, students and their families. "The Department gives
- [Vaccination of teachers: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaccination-of-teachers-pv-media-comment/) - An article published in the Herald-Sun yesterday focuses on Covid-19 outbreaks in schools. According to the article, "Unions, parents and educator lobby groups are united in calling for teachers to be vaccinated as a priority." PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy was consulted by the Herald-Sun for the article. Gail's comments, as supplied to the newspaper, are given here in
- [Home learning again: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/home-learning-again-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age focuses on the impact of Victoria's fifth lockdown on school students and their parents. PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said families seemed to be coping with the latest shutdown. “In this wintry weather... we’ve got to give Victorians a medal. We’re all doing the best we can,” she said.
- [VCE special consideration: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vce-special-consideration-pv-media-comment/) - According to an article in today's Herald-Sun, "Results relief is on the way for desperate VCE students after special consideration on their ATAR was locked in." PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said the VCE rescheduling and assessment considerations were greatly welcomed by the 2021 cohort. “PV is pleased to see
- [How to help your kids succeed in school without piling on the pressure](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/how-to-help-your-kids-succeed-in-school-without-piling-on-the-pressure/) - "There are four key things children need to get the most out of their education, and hassling them about results or getting them into an expensive private school are not on the list." In this article on the ABC website, parenting expert Justin Coulson summarises extensive academic research on the key factors for success at
- [Vaccine rollout in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaccine-rollout-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - According to an article in today's Herald-Sun, "Victorian kids are set to receive the Covid-19 jab at schools across the state before the end of term four." PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said some parents were keen to give priority to secondary school students, after all essential workers including teachers
- [Rapid antigen testing in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/rapid-antigen-testing-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article yesterday under the headline, "Rapid antigen Covid-19 testing can keep kids in school, experts say". The article explores the use of rapid antigen testing in schools overseas, and quotes experts in support of the method being used in Victorian schools. PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail
- [Return to the classroom: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/return-to-the-classroom-pv-media-comment/) - Most parents are keen to get their children back to on-site learning at school. But there's also concern about the spread of COVID-19, especially the impact of the Delta strain on children. This report, from the ABC's AM program, features: Gail McHardy, Executive Officer, Parents Victoria Correna Haythorpe, President, Australian Education Union Craig Peterson, President, NSW Secondary
- [Vaccinations give hope: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaccinations-give-hope-pv-media-comment/) - A recent article in the Age focuses on COVID vaccinations for school-aged children. Titled 'Our only way out': Families relieved about vaccinations for children, the article gives responses from parents and other groups. Parents Victoria executive officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said schools were an important conduit of government health advice, on vaccines and
- [Remote learning incentives: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/remote-learning-incentives-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reported today that a Melton secondary school is using retail and movie vouchers as incentives to improve remote learning engagement. According to the article, "Kurunjang Secondary College is putting the names of senior students attending for 75 per cent or more of class time in draws to win." PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is
- [School levies are voluntary](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-levies-are-voluntary/) - As reported recently in the Age, Education Department guidelines for schools have been 'refreshed' to give schools and families clarity and transparency about payments. Schools can continue to seek voluntary financial contributions towards classroom materials, educational programs and operating expenses, and invite parents to buy educational items on a user-pays basis. But the guidelines make
- [Staged return to schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/staged-return-to-the-classroom-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reported today on how the staged return to the classroom will work for Victorian school students. PV Executive Office Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said some parents would be relieved “and others would’ve hoped for more students to be onsite sooner than later, but unfortunately the virus is the determinant”. She said
- [PV2021 Conference: Recipes for Great Schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/pv2021-conference-recipes-for-great-schools/) - The Parents Victoria Annual Conference will take place online this year, on Monday 11 October. Our theme this year is "Recipes for Great Schools". Program 10:00am - Conference Opening and address by the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education & Minister for Mental Health, James Merlino. 10:30 am - Caring through Connection with Dr Elspeth Stephenson, University of Tasmania 12:30am - Parents
- [Return to school: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/return-to-school-pv-media-comment/) - (For the official 'roadmap' on return to the classroom, see the Victorian Coronavirus website.) Geelong Advertiser, 28 September The Geelong Advertiser published an article about uncertainty in regional areas about whether students will return to school in Term 4. According to the article, "Geelong school students are in limbo and desperate to know if they will head
- [Scholarships for Victorian students](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/scholarships-for-victorian-students/) - There's a range of scholarships available for eligible Victorian students from Grade 4 to Year 12. Applications are now open for 2022. Scholarships are payments to help you with the cost of your child's education. They are provided by various government and non-government organisations. They're generally offered based on: financial need or difficulties your child's
- [Preparing today’s learners for uncertainty](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/preparing-todays-learners-for-uncertainty/) - A webinar for parents 'Uncertainty tolerance' (UT), or how we process and respond to unknown or complex situations, is increasingly recognised as an essential workplace skill. Uncertainties in the workplace are ever-present and we’ve seen shared, global experiences of this with the uncertainties surrounding work during the COVID-19 pandemic. On Tuesday 9 November Associate Professor
- [Teacher industrial action: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-industrial-action-pv-media-comment/) - PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in a Herald-Sun article published yesterday, about the possibility of industrial action by Victorian teachers over the coming weeks. Teachers are negotiating with the State Government over a new enterprise agreement. According the Herald-Sun article, "teachers could stop writing report cards sent home to parents, as they did
- [Collective Conversation on Consent - Conference 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/collective-conversation-consent-conference-2021/) - Presentations by Debbie Ollis, Chanel Contos and Katrina Marson.
- [Caring through Connection - Conference 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/caring-through-connection-conference-2021/) - Elspeth Stephenson's presentation at our 2021 Online Conference.
- [Minister's opening/Joan Kirner Award - Conference 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/ministers-opening-joan-kirner-award/) - https://youtu.be/7wUykcJ6fVc Our 2021 Conference was officially opened by the Minister for Education, James Merlino. In a second (pre-recorded) video, Mr Merlino also announced the winners of the 2021 Joan Kirner Parent Participation Award. https://youtu.be/HZuufHa_x0U
- [Teacher industrial action: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-industrial-action-pv-media-comment-2/) - PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy has commented on reports of planned teacher industrial action in Victoria.
- [Return to the classroom: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/return-to-the-classroom-pv-media-comment-2/) - PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in an ABC News report on the return to on-site learning in Victorian schools. Gail said parents were relieved and excited to have the students heading back to school. "[The Premier's announcement] was obviously great news for all Victorian schools … to get some normalcy back before the
- [COVID in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/covid-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The Age published an article on Friday about the impacts of COVID-19 infections in Victorian schools. When a student tests positive to COVID, other students and teachers are being forced back into online learning while they quarantine. In some cases the teacher and some students can return to school, while other students remain home for
- [Unvaxxed parents: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/unvaxxed-parents-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article on Saturday about the banning of unvaccinated parents from school premises and end-of-year events. According to the article, "Under new Department of Education guidelines, parents don’t need to be vaccinated to pick up or drop off kids, but they must to be vaccinated or have a medical exemption to enter
- [Vax mandate for kids: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vax-mandate-for-kids-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article today under the headline, "Andrews government won’t rule out jab mandates for kids". According to the article, "The Victorian government has left the door open to imposing vaccine mandates on kids aged from five to 11, despite backflipping on bans that would have stopped older children attending their own school
- [Disability Inclusion in Victorian schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/disability-inclusion-in-victorian-schools/) - Disability Inclusion is the new approach to supporting students with disability at Victorian government schools. Disability Inclusion is being rolled out progressively across the state over five years (2021 - 2025). To learn more about Disability Inclusion, see the State Government’s Disability Inclusion page. There’s a short video on the page that gives a good
- [Think. Wait. Communicate.](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/think-wait-communicate/) - Something to say to your school? Think (about what you want to say) Wait (seek an appropriate time) Communicate (clearly and respectfully) In keeping with Parents Victoria's mission, vision and goals - our objective is to encourage, influence and impact school families to be at their best when connecting to their school community. Especially as
- [Our Achievements in 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/our-achievements-in-2021/) - Our Board and staff have been very busy this year working across a range of issues, making sure that parent views are represented in decision-making forums and the media. Meetings Overview 4 meetings with the Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Minister for Mental Health Ministerial Office Team members) 81 meetings with the Department of
- [Teacher strike? PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/aeu-industrial-campaign-pv-media-comment/) - According to an article in the Age, "Victorian teachers have vowed to strike in term one next year, forcing students to miss out on class time, unless the Andrews government agrees to its demands for higher pay and lighter workloads." PV Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail expressed hope that
- [Hillcrest Primary School tragedy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/hillcrest-primary-school-tragedy/) - We were shocked and saddened to hear of the terrible tragedy at Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport, Tasmania. We know that many others will be similarly affected, especially parents, children and school staff at what should be a joyful time - celebrating the end of a difficult year and the successful completion of primary school
- [Merry Christmas from Parents Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/merry-christmas-from-parents-victoria/) - What a year! The PV Board wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
- [Vaccination for children aged 5-12](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaccination-for-children-aged-5-12/) - PV Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in an article published in the Herald-Sun today. The article covers the issue of Covid-19 vaccines for children aged 5-11. According to the article, "Children aged 5-11 years old will be able to get a Covid vaccine from next Monday, with bookings to open online or via
- [Cost of schooling 2022: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cost-of-schooling-2022-pv-media-comment/) - PV Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy was interviewed by Tony Jones on 3AW's Morning Show on Monday 10 January. (Tony Jones is hosting Neil Mitchell's program while Neil is away.) Gail and Tony discussed the costs of sending children back to school this year, especially the costs of devices such as tablets and laptops. Gail
- [Cost of schooling survey (re-opened for 2022)](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cost-of-schooling-survey-re-opened-for-2022-2/) - In the September edition of Parents Voice, we alerted our readers that DET had refreshed the Parent Payment Policy as a result of a series of school audits on how they were charging and communicating those charges with parents around school costs. PV pursues a broad goal of ensuring that public education is compulsory, inclusive,
- [Your kids can create a family memoir](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/your-kids-can-create-a-family-memoir/) - The Chapters of Our Lives is an online course that will guide your child through the process of interviewing family members and creating a family memoir. The course is suitable for families with children who are early readers and writers all the way through to teens. All the kids in your family can participate in different ways, perhaps
- [Back to school: parent concerns](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/6005-2/) - The majority of families are anxious about their children returning to school at beginning of the 2022 school year according to nationwide survey conducted by the Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO). The survey shows that major concerns for parents are the high Covid case numbers and the short period of time for kids
- [Back to school: the plan](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/back-to-school-the-plan/) - The plan for Victorian students' return to school was announced today by Education Minister James Merlino and Premier Daniel Andrews in a media release. Today's media release announces the details of Covid risk management that will be implemented in schools, including: Surveillance testing Ventilation Vaccinations Workforce planning Read the Media Release There's also an
- [ACSSO welcomes Labor commitment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/acsso-welcomes-labor-commitment/) - The Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) welcomes today’s announcements by the Federal Opposition leader highlighting a commitment to invest a total of $440 million of new money in education COVID-19 recovery. “This announcement by Mr Albanese is a great step forward in assisting students to “bounce back” following the last two years of
- [Our unequal education system](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/our-unequal-education-system/) - "When colleagues overseas ask what I think about Australia’s school system, I tell them that it does offer world-class education, but not for everyone." That's the opening sentence of a recent article in the Guardian by Finnish education expert Pasi Sahlberg, who now lives in Australia. The article focuses on the divide between the public
- [Child wellbeing and COVID: survey](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/child-wellbeing-and-covid-survey/) - We are supporting a new study by the Australian Human Rights Commission designed to find out more about the unique challenges faced by children and their families during COVID-19. The Commission has launched two surveys to better understand the social, emotional, educational, and other impacts experienced by children aged 9 to 17 and their parents
- [Cost of schooling survey - results](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cost-of-schooling-survey-results/) - Thanks to those parents who filled in our 'Cost of schooling' survey late last year. The results were a 'mixed bag' with some positive results and some causes for concern. The survey asked parents about how well their school communicates with them about voluntary levies, how well the payments systems work, and the impact of
- [Vaccinations and masks in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaccinations-and-masks-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reported today on a conflict between State and Federal governments on the issue of mass vaccination programs in schools. Taking aim at Victoria, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said a universal school-based scheme would be the “fastest way out” of Victoria requiring kids in grades 3 to 6 to wear masks for the rest
- [Know Your Country campaign video](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/know-your-country-campaign-video/) - This new campaign video from Know Your Country captures the opinions of students, teachers, parents, the Principal and First Nations Educators at a primary school on Kaurna Country in South Australia. Find out why they’re excited about the prospect of having First Nations Cultural Educators in every primary school across the country. Why not share
- [National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence: Friday 18 March](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/national-day-of-action-against-bullying-and-violence-friday-18-march/) - Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative, connecting schools to find workable solutions to bullying and violence.
- [Get Gonski back on track](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-gonski-back-on-track/) - This article is a transcript of a speech given on 18 February by Trevor Cobbold of Save Our Schools, to mark the 10th anniversary of the Gonski Report. Trevor says Gonski was "a watershed in the history of school funding in Australia because it made equity in education the centrepiece of education policy. Its legacy
- [New information sheet about Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-information-sheet-about-parent-clubs/) - The Education Department has published a new information sheet about the role, establishment and function of Parent Clubs. The information sheet covers: The role of the Parent Club Online meetings A case study of how one Parent Club kept running during Covid lockdowns How to establish a new Parent Club How to re-start an inactive
- ["Schoolyard Stories" fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/schoolyard-stories-fundraiser/) - Our friend Mandy the Fundraising Whisperer has highlighted this interesting fundraiser in her recent newsletter. "Schoolyard Stories" gives you the opportunity to compile a book and then sell copies as a fundraiser. The books could be: Storybooks written and illustrated by children Cookbooks with favourite recipes from your school community Yearbooks Photo books The possibilities
- [Vaping in schools: take our survey](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vaping-in-schools/) - The issue of vaping in schools has been in the media recently. We'd like your views - take our quick survey. Channel Nine News A report on Channel Nine News yesterday focused on the issue of students vaping at school. According to the report, some Victorian schools are installing vape detectors in toilets to address
- [Australia votes - ACSSO education survey](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/australia-votes-acsso-education-survey/) - With the calling of the Federal Election being imminent - education needs to be front of mind for all candidates. The last two years not only has highlighted but has exacerbated the equity gap. Have your say! This is a chance to add your voice to ACSSO's collective advocacy on behalf of government school parents
- [Behaviour problems in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/behaviour-problems-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - A recent article in the Age focuses on increased behavioural issues in schools as students and teachers try to get back to normal after the Covid-19 disruptions of the past 2 years. According to the article: Disruptive behaviour and poor wellbeing among students have emerged as bigger problems in Victorian schools this year than learning
- [Rule changes for school visitors](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/rule-changes-for-school-visitors/) - The Victorian Government has announced some important changes to COVIDSafe measures for schools that will apply from the start of Term 2. You'll see below that visitors to schools (including parents) are no longer required to show evidence of vaccination. However, evidence of vaccination is still required if you are volunteering at the school, as
- [Traffic and schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/traffic-and-schools-pv-media-comment/) - The issue of traffic congestion around schools at drop-off and pickup time has come into focus recently with parents receiving parking fines, and local residents complaining about blockages caused by parents double-parking around schools. According to a recent article in the Herald-Sun: Division has erupted between parents and residents over parking fines dished out across
- [Schools sue parents: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/schools-sue-parents-pv-media-comment/) - Media outlets have reported recent cases where schools have sued parents over critical comments on social media. The Herald-Sun reported on 9 June that "Parents and students ranting against teachers and principals on social media are being sued by schools, with recent court payouts of more than $100,000 for some comments." The story was picked
- [School Community Safety Orders: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-community-safety-orders-pv-media-comment/) - Recent media reports have misrepresented PV's position on School Community Safety Orders, which are due to come into force early next month. The Orders will give school Principals the power to ban parents from school grounds if they regard the parents' behaviour as "harmful, threatening or abusive". We have expressed strong concerns about these Orders
- [Curriculum conversations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/curriculum-conversations/) - Questions were raised at a PV Board meeting earlier this year, about the state of financial literacy/consumer education in Victorian schools. Board members considered this area an important priority and wanted to know what is being taught in schools. So we asked the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA). Here (in part) is their reply:
- [School levies: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-levies-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today (21 June) that, "a decline in voluntary payments from parents this year could force schools to cut curricular programs." According to the article, "Caulfield secondary school Glen Eira College wrote to parents on Friday warning that it had already spent its annual budget in voluntary payments from families and was reviewing
- [Unvaxxed teachers: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/unvaxxed-teachers-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today that, "Unvaccinated teachers, school staff and childcare workers will be free to return to work from next week, just two months after hundreds were officially terminated over their refusal to be inoculated against COVID-19." PV Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in the article. Gail said the end of the
- [SOS: Fully Fund Public Schools to Increase Productivity](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/sos-fully-fund-public-schools-to-increase-productivity/) - A new article by Save Our Schools' National Convenor Trevor Cobbold draws a link between the PM's recent statement on increasing productivity and school funding. The article begins: Prime Minister Albanese says that increasing productivity is a priority for the Labor Government. A key component of increasing productivity is improving workforce knowledge and skills. However,
- [New Covid/flu wave in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-covid-flu-wave-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - PV Chief Executive Officer Gail McHardy is quoted in a recent Herald-Sun article about predictions of a wave of Covid and flu affecting schools in Term 3. According to the article, "Schools are expecting a school holiday Covid and flu wave to leave classrooms half full as term three returns on Monday... and a spike
- [Masks in schools - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/masks-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - Both the Herald-Sun and the Age have reported this morning that Victorian school students over the age of eight are being 'asked' to wear masks indoors, although mask-wearing is still not mandatory. According to the Age report, "A letter outlining the mask advice change — signed by the heads of the state, independent and Catholic
- [Masks in schools - PV opinion article](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/masks-in-schools-pv-opinion-article/) - An opinion article by Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy was published in today's Age. Gail's article focuses on the need for schools and families to have strong relationships and work together to face the challenges of the pandemic. The State Government's decision to ask (but not mandate) school students over 8 years old to wear
- [Support for disadvantaged students: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/support-for-disadvantaged-students-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today on the surge in requests for assistance from State Schools' Relief - a charity that provides school essentials to disadvantaged students. According to the article, "State Schools’ Relief said student requests for items such as school uniforms, dongles and headphones had grown by more than a quarter during the pandemic." Parents
- [Education State Forum](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/education-state-forum/) - "Workforce, wellbeing and pathways: New perspectives on education" was the theme of the 2022 Education State Forum - Schools. PV promoted the opportunity for several government school parents to attend this Forum in the April issue of Parents Voice, and we are really pleased that several parents were able to join us. Here is an out-take
- [Gingerbread house fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/gingerbread-house-fundraiser/) - Decorating gingerbread houses is a community-builder as well as a fundraiser. You can create a contactless online fundraiser, a sales drive or a get-together.
- [Special Provision for VCE exams](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/special-provision-for-vce-exams/) - With VCE exams around the corner, find out about the extra support available if your child has a disability or is sick, injured...
- [Our election 'school lunch order'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/our-election-school-lunch-order/) - Food for thought - here's our 'school lunch order' for the coming State Election. Here's what we'd like to see for the future of Victorian education. We'll be asking the parties contesting the election: can you fill our order? Download our Election 'school lunch order'
- [Covid school closures: PV comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/covid-school-closures-pv-comment/) - The Age has published an article today about a recent report that criticised Australia’s widespread school closures. According to the article, "The review of Australia’s COVID-19 response found it was wrong to close schools en masse, particularly when they weren’t seen as high-transmission environments." Parents Victoria's CEO, Gail McHardy was approached by the Age for
- [Minister Natalie Hutchins - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/minister-natalie-hutchins-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/QPjv-30jEno This video shows Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins speaking at our E-Conference on 24 October 2022. The Minister's appearance was postponed slightly by urgent commitments related to the Victorian flood situation, but she still managed to participate from a car by the roadside. We thank the Minister for making the time to speak at
- [John Hendry - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/john-hendry-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/PfFm_KP1Z7k In this video, John Hendry OAM gives us an introduction to Relationship based Education. This is the 'What' of our 'What, Why and How' of RbE. John refers to a YouTube video about the Harvard longitudinal study on health and happiness - view the video on YouTube.
- [Kristin Reimer - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/kristin-reimer-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/j_Yj1h5a9kQ In this video, Kristin Riemer PhD from Monash University discusses the philosophical principles behind RbE, and case studies and research evidence to show the effectiveness of this approach - the 'Why' of our 'What, Why, How' of RbE.
- [School camps under threat: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-camps-under-threat-pv-media-comment/) - Nine News has published a report on the threat to school camps arising from unfunded changes to teachers' conditions. According to the report: School principals are warning they will have to axe student camps or hit parents with a big fee hike from next year unless the Victorian Government delivers more funding. New rules for
- [Prahran High School - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/prahran-high-school-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/r_xota3UEUw Relationship based Education has been an important part of Prahran High School since it opened in 2019. Principal Nathan Chisholm and Assistant Principal Shannan Roberts explain how RbE works at their school. Parent Larissa Raymond gives her perspective on the benefits of RbE. If you don't have time to watch the whole video, here
- [Ocean Grove Primary School - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/ocean-grove-primary-school-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/snhIMS8x3Sk Ocean Grove Primary School has been working with John Hendry to implement the principles of Relationship based Education at the school. Scott McCumber (Principal) and Andy McNeilly (Mental Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator) tell the school's story and how RbE worked for their school, and parent Alex Fisher gives his view on RbE. If you
- ['On the Couch' Q&A session - Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/on-the-couch-qa-session-conference-2022/) - https://youtu.be/DvN9Ra8DYBc Our panellists answered questions from Conference participants. Note: sorry, this video skips the first few minutes of the Q&A. Ross Mortimer asked the first question: "A lot of what has been spoken about today reminds me of teachings of Confucius (regarded as one of the first public educators). We talk about relationships, integrity, compassion,
- [Further information: Conference 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/further-information-conference-2022/) - Follow-up information about Relationship based Education, our speakers and RbE in schools...
- [Case study: Parent Association at Wembley Primary School](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/case-study-parent-association-at-wembley-primary-school/) - We're always glad to hear 'good news stories' about the great work being done by Parent Clubs around Victoria. This one was sent to us recently from the Parent Club at Wembley Primary School. There is strong consensus and research behind the idea that a positive relationship between schools and the parents and broader community,
- [School camps under threat](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-camps-under-threat/) - Schools may be forced to either cancel their camps or request extra fees from parents in 2023, because of unfunded changes to teachers’ conditions. As from 2023, teachers who go away on school camps will be entitled to time-in-lieu for the extra time they spend on camp. However there is no extra funding for the
- [School funding promises: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-promises-pv-media-comment/) - A recent article in the Age covers the election promises both the major parties are making on education, and mentions Parents Victoria. According to the article: "Labor and the Coalition have made election promises totalling $5.3 billion on education but ignored a key request from lobby group Parents Victoria to fully fund Victorian government schools."
- [School Community Safety Orders: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-community-safety-orders-pv-media-comment-2/) - An article in today's Age covers the issue of School Community Safety Orders, and includes comment from Parents Victoria. We reported on the introduction of these orders in July, and raised concerns and questions about unintended consequences of the orders. The Age article reveals that three orders have been enforced since they were introduced in
- [Our achievements in 2022](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/our-achievements-in-2022/) - Again this year, Parents Victoria (PV) Board and staff have been kept busy to ensure that parent voices are heard and included in many forums, working groups, events, submission opportunities and feedback requests from DET and government. We've also been busy responding to requests for comment from the media. Meetings Overview 3 meeting opportunities with
- [School camps pay dispute goes to Fair Work](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-camps-pay-dispute-goes-to-fair-work/) - The Age reports today on the continuing industrial dispute affecting school camps in Victoria. The dispute is over whether teachers should receive time off in lieu for every hour they spend on school camps. According to the article, "The Australian Education Union has taken the Andrews government and the Department of Education and Training to
- [Back-to-school costs: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/back-to-school-costs-pv-media-comment/) - An article in the Age today exposes the difficulty many families are having with the costs of getting their children back to school for 2023. According to the article, "a survey by the Smith Family of almost 2000 families across Australia who have received help from the charity found nine out of 10 parents and
- [Cost of schooling - PV comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cost-of-schooling-pv-comment/) - The Age reports today on the large voluntary contributions some government schools are requesting from parents. According to the article, "Families are being asked to make hundreds of dollars in voluntary payments to public schools, with principals warning that without the contributions they can deliver only a basic education." "Schools are underfunded" The article quotes
- [School uniform: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported recently about the changes taking place in Victorian school uniforms. According to the article, "School uniforms in Victoria are evolving to meet student demands, with pants and shorts for girls, trans-seasonal and green uniforms becoming more common." Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the article, as follows: Gail McHardy of
- [Teacher shortage: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-shortage-pv-media-comment/) - ABC News reported yesterday on the teacher shortage affecting Victoria schools. According to the news article, "The Victorian branch of the Australian Education Union (AEU) says many students at government schools will return to classrooms with substitute teachers or reduced lessons when Term 1 starts today." The article also quotes Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy,
- [School refusal on the rise](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-refusal/) - The Age reported today on increasing rates of 'school refusal'. According to the article, "The rate of school refusal in Victoria grew by 50 per cent in the three years to 2021, with almost 12,000 students in government schools – about 2 per cent – officially absent in the second year of the pandemic... School
- [A satirical look at school funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/a-satirical-look-at-school-funding/) - Columnist Julie Szego takes a satirical look at school funding in today's Age. Here's a brief sample: I think if anyone should feel pressured to pay for things like photocopying it ought to be governments given their stated commitment to a “world-class public education system”. Did I say something funny? Read the full article
- ["Among lowest funded in the country"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/among-lowest-funded-in-the-country/) - Victorian school students are among the lowest funded in the country, according to an article in today's Age - and funding for private schools is growing faster than for government schools. According to the article, "A new Productivity Commission report finds federal and state funding per student in Victorian non-government schools grew 31 per cent over
- [ACSSO survey - school costs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/acsso-survey-school-costs/) - We know how hard increasing school costs are hitting families - but our Federal Government needs to know too! Will you help ACSSO - the national parent body - collect data on how much your children's schooling is costing you, so they can speak on your behalf? The ACSSO online parent survey asks what it
- [State schools shine in NAPLAN](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/state-schools-shine-in-naplan/) - The Age today published a list of the top 20 most-improved Victorian schools in NAPLAN results - and 16 of them are government schools. According to the article, "Schools with a high proportion of students from first-generation migrant families also dominated the list of high achievers. Between 60 per cent and 90 per cent of
- [School funding: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-pv-media-comment-2/) - The Herald-Sun published an article about school funding today, headed "Leading private schools have millions in funds while state schools wait for basic upgrades". According to the article, "The wealthiest 20 Victorian secondary schools have more than $1 billion between them – splashing out on indoor aquatic centres, wellbeing centres and high-tech classrooms. In comparison,
- [NEW VCE Vocational Major: your view](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-vce-vocational-major-your-view/) - Parents of senior secondary students should have received information from their school about the reforms to senior secondary certificates now being implemented in Victorian schools, under the name, "Many Talents One VCE". What are the reforms? In a nutshell, the new system will bring both academic and vocational education at senior secondary level under one
- [Parent/teacher conflicts - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-teacher-conflicts-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today that "Dealing with badly behaved parents with ever-increasing demands is what teachers and school leaders dislike most about their jobs." According to the article, "A new survey has found that for 47 per cent of teachers, dealing with parents is the least satisfying part of their job." The survey of teachers
- [School camps survey results](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-camps-survey-results/) - As we have reported over the last few months, school camps in Victoria are under threat because of unfunded changes to teachers' entitlements. This is obviously an important issue for parents, as the strong response to our parent survey shows. We had over 200 responses, with some clear trends and many thoughtful comments. Parent views
- [Melbourne student in the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/legacy-relay/) - Legacy is the charity that provides personalised support and services to the families of veterans of the Australian Defence Force who have given their health or lives for their country. The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay 2023 is a 6-month campaign to pay homage and acknowledge veterans’ families, saluting their sacrifice. It will begin in France
- [Parent/school conflicts: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-school-conflicts-pv-media-comment/) - The Age has published another article about claims that parents are showing "increasing hostility and violence" towards teachers and principals. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the article: Parents Victoria chief executive officer Gail McHardy said there was a minority of problem parents and issues often arise after a delayed response or miscommunication
- ['Bringing in parents' part of the solution](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/bringing-in-parents-part-of-the-solution/) - Here's a good news story from the Age, about how principals have been able to turn around schools that are struggling with declining numbers, low morale and disengaged students, and get them going in a more positive direction. And according to Dr Lisa Vinnicombe, principal of John Fawkner College, 'bringing in parents' is part of
- [School zones - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-zones-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in a recent Age article about school zoning. According to the article, "Public schools will no longer be able to admit students outside their catchment area on curriculum grounds after school zoning rules were tightened in Victoria." Gail is quoted as follows: Parents Victoria executive officer Gail McHardy
- [Enrolment updates](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/enrolment-updates/) - The following information has been supplied to us by the Department of Education. The Starting school web page is a great place to get started if you need information about getting your child into a Victorian government school. Each year the Department of Education releases updated enrolment information to support schools and their community. This
- [Public Education Day - 25 May](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/public-education-day-25-may/) - Public Education Day is celebrated on 25 May in government school communities across Australia. “This day provides an opportunity to highlight the outstanding achievements of public education and its place as the foundation of Australian society,” announced Sharron Healy, President of the Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO). “We hope your school community takes
- ['Make your case' fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/make-your-case-fundraiser/) - Our friend Mandy the Fundraising Whisperer has alerted us to a fundraiser we hadn't seen before: the ‘Make Your Case’ fundraiser, where your supporters get to turn photos or drawings into quality phone cases and you get to raise those much needed funds. According to Mandy, the benefits of this fundraiser are: It's a very
- [Free social & emotional learning program for schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/free-social-and-emotional-learning-program-for-schools/) - The Smiling Mind Primary School Program helps schools implement and sustain meaningful and impactful change for students, teachers and the wider school community. Since February 2020, Smiling Mind has delivered the Primary School program to schools across Australia. The Australian Government has generously provided funding for 1,100 primary schools to participate in our evidence-based whole-school
- [June 'Parents Voice'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/june-parents-voice/) - The June issue of our newsletter Parents Voice is now available. There's lots of news, views, events and opportunities to have your say. We discuss student safety, bring you news about courses and careers education and many more issues. Go to our Newsletter page to read the current issue and sign up for 'Parents Voice'
- [Free fishing rods: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/free-fishing-rods-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today on a State Government program called "Little Anglers" that will distribute free fishing rods to Grade 5 students at Victorian schools - including wealthy private schools such as Trinity Grammar, MLC and Caulfield Grammar. The headline reads, "Free fishing rods for private schools is a hook critics say is out of
- ['Reinventing Schools' discussion paper](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/reinventing-schools-discussion-paper/) - A group of education experts has published a discussion paper about the future of school education in Australia, titled Reinventing Australian Schools. Under the name The Health, Wellbeing and Learning in Schools Project, the group represents education faculties at major tertiary and research institutions such as the University of Melbourne and the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. The
- [Seat belts on buses: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/seat-belts-on-buses-pv-media-comment/) - The recent horrific bus crashes in Victoria and NSW have highlighted an issue Parents Victoria has been campaigning on for many years - seat belts on buses. The Age covered the issue in an article this morning. According to the article, "Victoria is facing calls to fast-track the replacement of more than 100 regional school
- [Parent webinars: student wellbeing](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-webinars-student-wellbeing/) - Two webinars from Life Skills that may be of interest to parents: Parent Voice in Student Wellbeing - this one has already happened, but you can watch the video. A panel of experts (including Di Giblin from national parent body ACSSO) discuss a range of challenges to student wellbeing, and the importance of families and
- [School uniform costs: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-costs-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age covers examines the cost of school uniforms at Victorian state schools. The article begins, "State high schools are being urged to adopt more generic uniforms and end their branding war with private schools as more families than ever seek financial help." The article quotes State Schools' Relief CEO Sue Karzis,
- [Free online tools for Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/free-online-tools-for-parent-clubs/) - A new addition to our Parent Club Toolkit - what resources are available for free or minimal cost, that Parent Clubs can use to make things easier? Many parents will be accustomed to using online tools at work for collaboration, planning and communication, but Parent Clubs don't usually have the budget for them. We've searched
- [Behaviour and mental health in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/behaviour-and-mental-health-in-schools/) - We have just added this report to our Relationship based Education (RbE) pages, because its conclusions are so closely aligned to the core principles of RbE. The report from the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition (UK) is based on a year-long inquiry into mental health and behaviour in schools. It supports many of the
- [Parliamentary inquiry into education system](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parliamentary-inquiry-into-education-system/) - The Victorian Parliament is holding an inquiry into the state education system, and they are inviting submissions from the public. It's a simple online process and your submission can be written, audio or video. This is a chance to speak directly to the decision-makers! You can make your own submission, or send your thoughts to
- [Vale Heather Murray](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vale-heather-murray/) - We note with sadness that Heather Murray passed away recently. Heather was a member of the Executive of Parents Victoria (then known as the Victorian Federation of State School Parents Clubs) from 1970 to 1980. She was Honorary Secretary from 1973 to 1980, editor of the magazine for several years, and the author of a
- [College uniform: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cheltenham-sc-uniform-pv-media-comment/) - A school uniform issue at Cheltenham Secondary College has sparked debate in the media today. The Herald-Sun reported this morning: Some Cheltenham Secondary College parents are outraged at the school’s decision to introduce a new jacket featuring the pride and Indigenous flags. The two flags are embroidered on the arms of the puffer jacket, one
- [Teacher shortage - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-shortage-pv-media-comment-2/) - The Herald-Sun reports today on the serious impact of teacher shortages in Victorian schools, focusing on the situation at Shepparton College, where student reporting has been disrupted by inconsistent staffing. According to the article: Teacher shortages are so dire that educators are unable to complete student reports, leaving parents in the dark about their children’s progress.
- [New maths curriculum: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-maths-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported yesterday on problems with the introduction of a new maths curriculum for Year P-10 students at Victorian schools. According to the article: Parents could be faced with extra pupil-free days and students are at risk of missing crucial lessons as teachers struggle to get across a new maths curriculum ahead of the
- [July 'Parents Voice'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/july-parents-voice/) - The July issue of our email newsletter Parents Voice is out now. We've announced the date of our 2023 Annual Conference (7 October) and we're calling for suggestions on the Conference theme. Parents Voice also brings you several other opportunities to have your say, including the State Government Parliamentary Inquiry in the Victorian education system.
- [School zones: our view](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-zones-our-view/) - School zoning is in the media again, with an article in the Age yesterday headlined, "Students snubbing school zones amid calls to scrap outdated model". According to the article: Almost half of Victoria’s public students attended a government school outside their allocated catchment zone last year, raising questions about the relevance of the enrolment model.
- [Principals' Day - 4 August](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/principals-day-4-august/) - Today (4 August) is Principals' Day - a chance to celebrate and say "thank you!" to all Victorian school principals and assistant principals. We know that being a Principal is a complex and demanding role, and we appreciate all that they do to create and sustain great learning communities in Victorian schools. If you are
- [Altona Meadows school zone: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/altona-meadows-school-zone-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today on the situation in Altona Meadows, in Melbourne's west, where there are 3 government primary schools but no government secondary school. According to the article, "Every year, families are zoned to high schools in surrounding suburbs including Laverton and Point Cook. Parents face the difficult choice of a twice-daily, one-hour round
- [Applying for grants](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/applying-for-grants/) - There may be an alternative to traditional fundraisers - your Parent Club or school could apply for a grant. There are many philanthropic and government organisations that offer cash grants for good causes. Our friend Mandy the Fundraising Whisperer has set up a new page on her website called Grants Space - a place to
- [Teacher shortage: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-shortage-pv-media-comment-3/) - The Herald-Sun and Leader newspapers reported recently on the teacher shortage in Victorian schools. The article is headlined, "Parents call for transparency as teaching crisis deepens", and quotes Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy: The state’s largest parents’ association says being more transparent with families would ease anger and anxiety about the current teaching crisis. Parents
- [Car fumes at school pick-up: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/car-fumes-at-school-pick-up-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today on the problem of children being exposed to car fumes at school drop-off/pickup time. According to the article, "Car parking and leaving the engine running at schools should be banned, experts say, as the toxic exhaust fumes could be making children sick." Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the
- [Attack on student: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/attack-on-student-pv-media-comment/) - Most readers would be aware of the violent street attack on a Glen Eira College student on Monday. The Age reports today on the aftermath of the attack. The student is still in hospital and more students have reported being victims of crime in the area. According to the article, the offenders were apparently trying
- ["Unsung heroes of the election sausage"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/unsung-heroes-of-the-election-sausage/) - Cartoonist and writer Fiona Katauskas has written an article in the Guardian celebrating the achievements of Parent Clubs. Fiona knows what she's writing about - she's been on the P&C at her sons' NSW high school for seven years. The article starts with a staple of Parent Club fundraising - the 'democracy sausage'. As she
- [Unscored VCE: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/unscored-vce-pv-media-comment/) - An article in yesterday's Age examines the trend of more VCE students choosing to do an unscored VCE. According to the article: VCE exam season gets underway on Monday, but if the trend of recent years is anything to go by, more students will have chosen to do an unscored VCE and not sit exams
- [Conference photos](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/conference-photos/) - We will soon be bringing you lots of outcomes and information from our 2023 Conference on 7 October. Here are a few photos from the day, watch this space for more... View photos
- [The facts about school funding in Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/the-facts-about-school-funding-in-victoria/) - Trevor Cobbold has kindly given us permission to publish his presentation at our 2023 Conference. The presentation is titled The facts about school funding in Victoria. The presentation clearly demonstrates structural inequality in our education system, in particular under-funding of public schools in Victoria. Download Trevor's presentation This presentation is also available in video form.
- [Conference Report](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/conference-report/) - Proceedings of our Annual Conference on 7 October, including notes of panel discussion sessions.
- [Joan Kirner Award winner: Danielle Bell](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/joan-kirner-award-winner-danielle-bell/) - Congratulations to Danielle Bell, President of Croydon Hills Association of Parents (CHAPS) nominated by Croydon Hills Primary School principal, Christian Holdsworth. Danielle was working the day of the conference so Christian, School Council President Sian Jamison and CHAPS member Nikky Edwards assisted PV in presenting Danielle with her award on Friday afternoon, 6th October in
- [Rural and regional schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/rural-and-regional-schools-pv-media-comment/) - "Supporting regional and rural schools" was the topic on ABC Radio Melbourne's Conversation Hour on 18 October. The panel included Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy and several others who were also on the panel at our Conference recently. An interesting discussion. You can hear Gail at the 47-minute mark. Listen now
- [Let's value our teachers on World Teachers Day](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/lets-value-our-teachers-on-world-teachers-day/) - Parents Victoria media release On World Teachers Day (Friday 27 October), statewide parent organisation Parents Victoria is launching a new campaign with the slogan “Value education – Value those who provide it”. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy said, “Today’s teachers work long hours in a demanding and complex role. High expectations are placed on them
- [School fetes: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-fetes-pv-media-comment/) - A recent article in the Age focused on the increasing size and complexity of school fetes - and the way schools increasingly rely on them to make ends meet. According to the article, "School fetes are ditching 20 cent lucky dips and free petting zoos in favour of large school festivals as they try to
- [Teacher shortage - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teacher-shortage-pv-media-comment-4/) - The Age reported yesterday on the worsening teacher shortage in Victorian schools. According to the article, "Hundreds of classroom vacancies are going unfilled every week, lessons are being combined or cancelled and student report cards long delayed as a casual teacher shortage pushes already short-staffed schools to desperate measures." Our CEO Gail McHardy is quoted
- [Over-funded private schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/over-funded-private-schools/) - We've reported many times on the resource disparity between public and private schools - underfunded public schools and overfunded private schools. This is not just a problem in Victoria, it's nationwide - an article in the Age today focuses on a group of overfunded private schools in Perth. According to the article, "West Australian private
- [President's Christmas message](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/presidents-xmas-message/) - Dear parents, students, and friends of Parents Victoria, As we approach the end of another eventful year, it is with immense pleasure and pride that I extend warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. The holiday season is upon us, and it brings with it a spirit of joy, togetherness,
- [Funding inequity for top schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/funding-inequity-for-top-schools/) - A article in yesterday's Age compares the funding per student for top-performing schools in the recent NAPLAN results. According to the article: Analysis by The Age using the top 20 average year 9 NAPLAN results for public and private schools shows the best-performing independent school received an average of $30,109 per student in 2022, compared
- [Cost of schooling - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/cost-of-schooling-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy was interviewed by Raf Epstein on ABC Radio Melbourne this morning. The interview was sparked by new data showing that public education in Melbourne is the most costly in Australia. Gail talked about the shortfall in government funding for public schools, and the inevitable result - costs are passed on
- [School funding: 'tricks' that deprive public schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-tricks-that-deprive-public-schools/) - An article in the Age yesterday focused on the 'accounting tricks' that shortchanged Victorian government schools $1.7 billion last year. According to the article: Victorian public schools were shortchanged more than $1.7 billion last year under little-known loopholes and accounting tricks that economists warn are still allowing the states to underfund public schools. The Commonwealth
- [High cost of schooling in Victoria: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/high-cost-of-schooling-in-victoria-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today on the high cost of schooling in Victoria compared to other states. The article details a range of items from public transport to laptops that cost parents hundreds of dollars in Victoria, but are free or subsidised in other states. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in the article: Gail
- [Starting school - PV Tip Sheet](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/starting-school-pv-tip-sheet/) - As the school year begins, we know it's a big step for new Foundation (Prep) students as they go to school for the very first time. It's a big milestone for parents too. We have produced this handy Tip Sheet for parents, which focuses on establishing a good relationship with the school. We believe this
- [School funding agreements 'need to do better'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-agreements-need-to-do-better/) - This is a critical year for school funding, as bilateral agreements between Federal and state governments need to be re-negotiated. The Age reported today on the agreement negotiated between the West Australian and Federal governments. According to the article: Five states have banded together to demand the federal government double how much extra cash it
- [Productivity Commission data confirms unfairness](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/productivity-commission-data-confirms-unfairness-in-education/) - A recently-released report from the Productivity Commission confirms that private school funding has grown much faster than public school funding in recent years. Data from the Productivity Commission’s Report on Government Services in childcare, education and training, released on 5 February 2024, has prompted calls for a fairer system where all public schools are fully
- [Wealthy private schools over-funded](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/wealthy-private-schools-over-funded/) - We've been saying for a long time that public schools are under-funded. As this article in the Age makes clear, the other side of the coin is that many wealthy private schools are over-funded. According to the article, "The true extent of taxpayer overfunding of private schools has been laid bare in new figures, showing schools
- [Call for more Federal school funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/call-for-more-federal-school-funding/) - This article in the Guardian covers the recent call by The Australian Education Union, leaders of all major principals’ organisations and the Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) for the federal government pay at least a quarter of the cost of fair public school funding. Parents Victoria is a member of ACSSO. The call
- [Funding letter to Jason Clare](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/funding-letter-to-jason-clare/) - Along with seven other parent groups, Parents Victoria has written to Federal Education Minister Jason Clare to call for full funding of government schools - now. The letter points out that: The Australian Education Act 2013 obligates the Australian government to provide needs-based funding to schools that is fair. As you have acknowledged, Australian government
- [Parent/school communication: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-school-communication-pv-media-comment/) - ABC radio breakfast host Sammy J interviewed Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy this morning about reports that a Melbourne high school has asked parents not to email teachers outside school hours. Sammy commented that this is "off the back of the right-to-disconnect laws" recently passed by the Federal Government. Gail emphasised the importance of mutual
- [Capital works: 5 private schools = 3,300 public](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/capital-works-5-private-schools-3300-public/) - An article in today's Age highlights the huge wealth disparity between private and public schools. The article quotes statistics from the Australian Education Union, showing that 5 private schools in NSW and Victoria spent a combined $175.6 million on capital works in 2021. That's the same as the capital works spending at 3,300 public schools
- [School funding inequity is bad for everyone](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-inequity-is-bad-for-almost-everyone/) - Ross Gittins has written a penetrating economic analysis of school funding, under the headline, "Two-class school system a great way to entrench low productivity" The article begins: In 2011, the Gonski report recommended that government funding of schools be needs-based and sector-blind. More than 12 years later, it still hasn’t happened. And it’s by no
- [Vic public schools most expensive: PV media](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vic-public-schools-most-expensive-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age reveals that Victorian parents are paying more than any other state for a “free” public education. According to the article, "Victorian parents spent a total of $367.2 million on public education in 2022 – $85.2 million more than parents from NSW." The article also compares the income per student received
- [School uniform - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-pv-media-comme/) - School uniform is a significant part of the 'back to school' costs that parents bear at the start of each school year. The current cost-of-living crisis has re-ignited a long running debate about school uniform, as reported in a recent Herald-Sun article. According to the article: Uniforms are expensive, can create “social cliques” in schools
- [Gunnedah South Public School P&C Champions Innovative Hearing Initiative](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/gunnedah-sound-scouts/) - ------------------------Advertisement----------------------- Gunnedah, NSW – In a pioneering move, the Parent & Citizens Association (P&C) of Gunnedah South Public School, in partnership with Sound Scouts, has supported an innovative hearing screening program for its students. Sound Scouts incorporates the science of a hearing test in a fun game based app, making it the perfect hearing test
- [Teaching Excellence Program](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/teaching-excellence-program/) - During Week 4, Term 1, the Hon. Ben Carroll MP, Minister for Education, welcomed the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership’s 2024 Teaching Excellence Program (TEP) cohort. The Minister spoke of the crucial role teachers play in inspiring students, changing lives and positively impacting the education system, stating that there is ‘no more important public
- [No hat, no play - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/no-hat-no-play-pv-media-comment/) - A Geelong secondary college is introducing a "no hat, no play" rule - common in primary schools but not usually in place at secondary level. According to the article: It’s a significant shift at Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College in Geelong, which is believed to be one of the state’s first public high schools to
- [Parent Forum](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-forum/) - If you’ve ever faced a tricky situation with your children’s schooling, or really needed answers to a difficult question - you’re not alone! Other parents have probably faced the same issues, and we can help each other out. Parents Victoria now has a Facebook group for parents. If you have a child at a Victorian
- [Principals demand full funding for their schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/principals-demand-full-funding-for-their-schools/) - This article from the Educator reports on a call from Victorian school principals for full SRS funding for their schools. According to the article: More than 50 principals from public schools across Victoria have taken their demands for full school funding to state parliament today. The principals are meeting with more than 30 Labor MPs, including the
- [Government funding increases continue to favour private schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/government-funding-increases-continue-to-favour-private-schools/) - This article by economist Trevor Cobbold from Save Our Schools shows the ongoing unfairness in our school funding system. According to the article: New figures again demonstrate the bias against public schools in Australia’s school funding system. Government funding for Catholic and Independent schools has increased much more than for public schools since 2009. Government
- [School absence - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-absence-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun has raised concerns about the level of absenteeism in Victorian schools. According to an article in Saturday's edition, The average Victorian secondary student will skip nearly a year worth of high school, with experts blaming a spike in mental health issues and feelings of isolation among teenagers... The non-attendance figures were all far
- [Parents, it's time to take action!](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parents-its-time-to-take-action/) - Now you know the facts, it is time to take action on school funding, while state and federal governments negotiate their bilateral funding agreements. Need more background? See our School Funding page. Here's what you can do. Sign up to the For Every Child campaign Join 97,989 others in supporting this nationwide campaign. The more
- [Public schools lose $2billion - 'accounting tricks'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/public-schools-lose-2-billion-through-accounting-tricks/) - Save Our Schools has reported (again) on the way public schools lose out because of accounting tricks in the allocation of school funding. According to the SOS article, published on 10 April 2024: A report tabled in Parliament last week has confirmed that public schools lost over $2 billion in funding in 2022 because of
- [Parent levies - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-levies-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Age reveals the extra pressure on public school budgets caused by a drop in parent contributions. That pressure has only got worse since 2021 when the State Government forced public schools to be very clear with parents that levies are voluntary, not mandatory. According to the article: Public schools are losing
- [Overfunding of wealthy private schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/overfunding-of-wealthy-private-schools/) - Three of Australia’s wealthiest private schools got double the federal funding they were entitled to last year, according to an article in the Guardian. The article covers three Sydney schools; Northern Beaches Christian school, St Augustine’s College and MLC school. According to the article, the schools "...were funded at 171%, 160% and 158% of the
- [Student drop-out rate: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/student-drop-out-rate-pv-media-comment/) - "Victorian government schools have recorded their highest dropout rate in a decade, reflecting a 'concerning trend',” according to a report in today's Herald-Sun. The article continues: One quarter of Victorian year 10 government school students did not go on to finish year 12 in 2023 – the highest dropout rate in a decade, new data
- [Public schools short-changed on disability funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/public-schools-short-changed-on-disability-funding/) - This article in the Guardian exposes yet another unfair anomaly that sees wealthy private schools receive government disability assistance at far higher rates than public schools. According to the article: Wealthy private schools are receiving a government assistance payment for students with disabilities up to six times higher than that received in the public system...
- [PV at For Every Child media event](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/pv-at-for-every-child-media-event/) - The For Every Child campaign staged a media event at the State Library on Monday 6 April. They covered the lawns with 1560 miniature schools to represent the Victorian schools that are currently underfunded by $1.8 billion this year. The event featured speakers from the Australian Education Union and Parents Victoria. (Photo above shows our
- [PV welcomes School Saving Bonus](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/pv-welcomes-school-saving-bonus/) - Parents Victoria issued a media release yesterday, welcoming the State Budget announcement of a $400 School Saving Bonus for all parents at public schools. Our CEO Gail McHardy was also interviewed on ABC Radio Melbourne about the bonus payment. You can listen to Gail's interview on the ABC website (skip to 2 hours 20 minutes).
- [Senior school pathways - parent webinar](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/senior-school-pathways-parent-webinar/) - Senior secondary education in Victoria has changed. There are more options than ever for your child in Years 10 to 12. If your child is in Year 9 or 10, join this webinar (co-hosted by Parents Victoria) to learn more about how they can pursue their goals in senior secondary education. The Victorian Curriculum and
- [Tea Towel Fundraiser](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tea-towel-fundraiser/) - Expressions group projects are the perfect feel-good fundraiser for your school, just like a yearbook on a tea towel...
- [$160 per head graduation: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/160-per-head-graduation-pv-media-comment/) - The Age has reported on a a controversy about the cost of a graduation ceremony at a public high school. The article begins: "A public school in Melbourne’s south-east is accused of being tone-deaf to cost-of-living pressures after charging $160 per person to attend a year 12 valedictory graduation dinner." Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy
- [School uniform review: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-review-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria has been advocating on behalf of parents for some time about the high cost of school uniforms. We have suggested greater flexibility and a more 'generic' approach to uniforms, so that parents are not forced to buy a full set of expensive 'branded' items, often with no choice of supplier. Last week Education
- ["Resources delayed are resources denied": AEU](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/resources-delayed-are-resources-denied-aeu/) - Federal Education Minister Jason Clare announced today that the Federal and Northern Territory Governments have signed a bilateral agreement, to increase funding for all schools in the Northern Territory to 100 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) by 2029. Parents Victoria, along with the Australian Education Union and many other stakeholder groups under
- ["End the stand-off on school funding": SOS](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/end-the-stand-off-on-school-funding-sos/) - Save Our Schools (SOS) has called on the Federal Government to fully fund public school in line with the resource standard identified by the Gonski Report 12 years ago. The SOS media release, written by economist and SOS Convenor Trevor Cobbold (pictured above), calls on federal and state governments to stop their "disgraceful squabbling over
- [September deadline for school funding reforms](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/september-deadline-for-school-funding-reforms/) - Two recent articles in the Educator provide an update on the progress of negotiations between the federal and state governments on school funding. "States given September deadline to sign up to school funding reforms" (31 July) "The Federal Government has given a two-month deadline for the States and Territories to sign up to student learning
- [Under-funding of public schools: podcast](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/under-funding-of-public-schools-podcast/) - In this podcast produced by Kinship Carers Victoria, economist Trevor Cobbold talks us through the economic and structural inequality in our education system, in particular the under-funding of public schools in Victoria. In conversation with Kinship Carers Victoria Director Ann McLeish, Trevor lays out the evidence that over-funding of private schools has grown massively since
- [Principals 'more like grant appliers’](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/principals-more-like-grant-appliers/) - The Age reports today on new research that shows the impact of under-funding on public school principals. The article begins: Public school principals’ jobs have been radically reshaped by the demands of a competitive and punitive funding system, according to a new study. School leaders told researchers they feel more like grant appliers and fundraisers
- [Labor 'report card' - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/labor-report-card-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article today marking Labor's 10 years in government in Victoria, focusing on its record in education. The article begins: Shortly after the Daniel ­Andrews government was elected, the new premier changed Victoria’s number plate slogan from “Stay Alert, Stay Alive” to “The Education State”. Now, after a decade in power, education
- [Investing in Australia’s future](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/investing-in-australias-future/) - A recently released report from the For Every Child campaign - 'Investing in Australia’s Future (2025)' - outlines the reforms and investments needed to make sure every child in every public school can thrive.
- [Interim funding agreement signed](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/interim-funding-agreement-signed/) - The Victorian Government has signed an interim bilaterial agreement with the Commonwealth Government, under the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement. This will secure Commonwealth funding for Victorian schools until a long-term agreement is signed in 2026. According to a recent update distributed to schools, "The parties are committed to reaching a long-term Victorian bilateral agreement
- [Behind-the-scenes snapshot in our Centenary year](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/behind-the-scenes-snapshot-in-our-centenary-year/) - Most parents only see a small fraction of what happens in the Victorian public education system. But behind every policy shift, consultation, support resource or school-wide improvement are thousands of families — and an organisation working to make sure their voices are heard. Parents Victoria (PV) spends every week of the year in rooms where
- [School 'league tables' newspaper ad](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-league-tables-newspaper-ad/) - An advertisement was published in the Age and other Nine newspapers recently, calling on News Limited to stop publishing 'league tables' of schools based on their NAPLAN scores. The ad points out that, "It is unfair and misleading to create such tables ranking schools purely by the NAPLAN scores without considering the context of each
- [School Councils](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-councils/) - School council elections will take place in Term 1, 2026 and parents/carers will be given the opportunity to nominate for a position on their child/children’s school council. What impact do school councils have? School councils play a key role in governing Victorian government schools. As the governing body of a school (and a legal entity
- [Parents Victoria centenary celebration](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parents-victoria-centenary-celebration/) - Parents Victoria celebrated its 100th birthday with a special lunch on Sunday 30 November. We were joined by representatives of many education organisations, past PV members and office-bearers, Members of Parliament (including Education Minister Ben Carroll), senior Education Department staff and public school parents. There was much discussion (both on and off the stage) of
- [Media release - celebrating 100 years](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/media-release-celebrating-100-years/) - Parents Victoria celebrates 100 years of supporting Victorian public school families Today, Parents Victoria proudly marks its centenary — 100 years since the formation of the organisation that has championed the voices, needs, and rights of parents and carers in Victorian government schools. Founded on 26 November 1925 as the Victorian Federation of Mothers Clubs,
- [Gail McHardy in Herald-Sun's "Top 20"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/gail-mchardy-in-herald-suns-top-20/) - A recent article in the Herald-Sun "ranks the 20 most influential education figures in Victoria." Parents Victoria's CEO Gail McHardy comes in at number 17 on the list. According to the article: McHardy has been a passionate and tireless advocate for parents with children at state schools for many years. As many schools struggle to recruit
- [Rethinking intervention orders against children and young people ](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/rethinking-intervention-orders-against-children-and-young-people/) - Victoria Legal Aid has contributed this story about its recent research report into the experiences and impacts of intervention orders for children. New Victoria Legal Aid research shows that school related disputes, such as one-off physical fights and cyber-bullying between schoolmates, are driving an increase in intervention orders against children and young people, with most
- [Devices & screen time in primary schools - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/devices-screen-time-in-primary-schools-pv-media-comment/) - Education Minister Ben Carroll published a media release today announcing changes to the provision and use of electronic devices in Victorian public primary schools. Due to be implemented in 2027, the main changes are: Parents at Victorian Government primary schools will no longer need to buy a device for their children. Schools will be required
- [VIT review - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vit-review-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reports today on an independent review of the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT), which was released yesterday. The article describes the report as "scathing", and details some of the problems identified, including: Delays of up to five years to finalise serious claims against educators, including those charged with crimes. Delays of up to
- [Support for exams - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/support-for-exams-pv-media-comment/) - With the VCE exam season now under way, ABC Radio's Ali Moore interviewed two guests about how parents can support their children who are sitting exams: Dr Kylie Kerr from ACU (skip to 11 mins) Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy (skip to 16 mins) Both Gail and Kylie gave practical tips for parents on what
- [Anti-Bullying Rapid Review - report released](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/anti-bullying-rapid-review-report-released/) - The report of the Federal Government's Anti-Bullying Rapid Review was released on Saturday 18 October. The report's major recommendations include: A targeted public awareness campaign Schools to respond to a bullying within two days Trauma-informed training and resources for school staff Resources for families Clear guidance for schools to support early intervention More information Rapid
- [Camps survey results](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/camps-survey-results/) - In our last issue of Parents Voice we surveyed parents about school camps. Some clear messages emerged from the responses we received: Parents value school camps very highly. Almost 80% rated them as "very important." Cost of living pressures are a factor, but only 'somewhat', not 'significantly'. Not many (only 10%) have opted out of
- [Most parents are partners, not problems](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/most-parents-are-partners-not-problems/) - Parents Victoria keeps hearing about aggressive parents in schools—and yes, there are a few extreme cases. But let’s not forget: most parents are doing the right thing. They support teachers, follow school expectations, and just want the best for their children. It’s unfair—and unhelpful—to tar all parents with the same brush. We should be celebrating
- [NAPLAN results show inequality](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/naplan-results-show-inequality/) - The 2025 NAPLAN results demonstrate huge inequalities in Australia's education system, according to an analysis by Save Our Schools (SOS). According to the analysis, the NAPLAN results show "vast achievement gaps between rich and poor". The analysis, by economist Trevor Cobbold, shows that: Year 9 students of parents with a bachelor’s degree or higher achieved
- [Parents Battle of the Bands](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parents-battle-of-the-bands/) - If you have children at a public primary school - here's an idea that's much more than just a fundraiser: Parents Battle of the Bands! If there are a few parents at your school who can get together and form a band... that's all you need. Parents Battle of the Bands (a non-profit organisation) will
- [From our newsletter - March 1975](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/from-our-newsletter-march-1975/) - (Facsimile version below) At last - action on school crossings After years of campaigning by parent groups the State Government has taken steps towards the provision of paid traffic supervisors. An amount of $500,000 has been made available for payment of subsidies in respect of the first half of the 1975 school year (that is,
- [NAPLAN results](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/naplan-results/) - Victorian students’ results in the 2025 National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) have recently been released. NAPLAN measures five areas of students’ learning (reading, writing, spelling, grammar and punctuation, and numeracy) across four year levels (Years, 3, 5, 7 and 9), leading to 20 areas of assessed performance. Whichever way you look at
- [Child safety overhaul: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/child-safety-overhaul-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy was interviewed on ABC Radio Statewide Drive yesterday, responding to the State Government's announcement of an overhaul to the state's child safety system. The government has accepted all 22 recommendations of the recent Rapid Child Safety Review and proposed tougher regulations and training requirements for people who work with children.
- [More options for your child in years 10 to 12](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/more-options-for-your-child-in-years-10-to-12/) - Senior secondary education in Victoria has changed. Join a webinar, hosted by Parents Victoria to learn about the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Vocational Major, Victorian Pathways Certificate and vocational education and training (VET) at school.There are more options than ever for students in years 10 to 12. If your child is in Year 9
- [Supporting excellence in every classroom](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/supporting-excellence-in-every-classroom/) - The following article is provided by the Department of Education to keep parents informed about new initiatives in Victorian schools. We all want to ensure Victorian children and young people get the best possible education. This means prioritising excellence in teaching and learning and ensuring the knowledge, skills and capabilities that students develop at school
- [Parent-teacher interviews](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-teacher-interviews/) - We noticed this article in today's Age about parent-teacher interviews. Writer Jenna Guillaume has gathered advice from education leaders and a psychologist on how to prepare and get the most from your parent-teacher interview. Worth a read, especially if your child has just started school and you're not sure what to expect! Read the Age
- [Wearable devices in schools: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/wearable-devices-in-schools-pv-media-comment/) - You may remember that students were banned from having mobile phones in Victorian government schools in 2020. The Herald-Sun reported recently that "Teachers and education experts are calling for wearable devices to be included in the Victorian phone ban, as schools take drastic measures to stamp out poor concentration and anti-social behaviour. Schools are confiscating
- [New expulsion powers for principals - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-expulsion-powers-for-principals-pv-media-comment/) - Today's Herald-Sun reports on new powers that will soon be available to school principals to suspend or expel students for misconduct outside of school. According to the article: ...school leaders will soon have the authority to discipline pupils whose actions – both in person and online – outside school grounds risk the welfare of their peers and
- [Parents welcome cost-of-living initiatives](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parents-welcome-cost-of-living-initiatives/) - Media Release - 20 May 2025 Parents welcome cost-of-living initiatives Parents Victoria, which represents parents in Victorian government schools, has welcomed State Budget announcements of cost-of-living supports that will help parents. Specifically, we welcome: The increase in the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) payment to eligible students, to $400 each for primary and secondary.
- [Under-16s social media ban: the verification problem](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/under-16s-social-media-ban-the-verification-problem/) - An Australia-wide ban on under-16-year-olds using social media was legislated in November 2024 and is due to take effect in December this year. But how will the social media platform tell if a user is under 16? This article in the Conversation details the problems with age verification that are emerging ahead of the ban's implementation.
- [Defamation fines for parents?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/defamation-fines-for-parents/) - There has been some media coverage of a suggestion that a system of fines for online defamation could be introduced. The suggestion was made by the Chair of the Independent Office of School Dispute Resolution, Frank Handy, as reported in this article in the Age. Frank Handy also spoke to Chris Bath on ABC Radio
- [Victorian government "cut $2.4bn from school funding"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/victorian-government-cut-2-4bn-from-school-funding/) - Today's Age reports on a major cut to school funding made by the Victorian government in 2024, and "buried in last year’s budget papers". The article begins: The state government secretly ripped $2.4 billion from state schools after delaying by three years its commitment to provide the funding required to pay for the long-promised Gonski
- [2026 enrolment information and resources](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/2026-enrolment-information-and-resources/) - The Department of Education has published enrolment information and resources to support schools and their community with 2026 enrolments. This includes information and resources on: School zones Foundation (Prep) enrolment Year 7 enrolment. School zones School zones for 2026 are now available on findmyschool.vic.gov.au. This includes the school zones for 17 new schools and information on
- [EFTPOS for Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/eftpos-for-parent-clubs/) - The ability to accept credit or debit card payments has become essential for fundraising activities, as many people no longer carry cash. This may involve the use of mobile EFTPOS facilities for events such as fetes, where payment is taken on the spot. But how can Parent Clubs make this work? We have the latest
- [Parent chat groups](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-chat-groups/) - The Age recently published an article about online chat groups that are often set up by parents within a school community. According to the article, the groups "often descend into bickering between adults, online harassment and toxic gossip, according to teachers, parents and education experts." The article quotes teachers, principals, parents and a cyber security
- [School uniform announcement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-uniform-announcement/) - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Education Minister, Ben Carroll jointly announced - along with Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy - new policy changes that will make school uniforms more affordable. As from next year students at Victorian public schools will be allowed to wear non logoed below the waist uniform items e.g. shorts, pants, skirts,
- [Celebrating International Women's Day at Virtual School Victoria (VSV)](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/celebrating-international-womens-day-at-virtual-schools-victoria-vsv/) - PV's Gail and Leanne were invited and delighted to attend this inaugural event at VSV. The morning kicked off early with a cuppa and some enjoyable breakfast fare, before we heard from guest speakers Fiona Webster, Executive Principal, VSV Fiona welcomed parents, students, staff and community members to VSV, to celebrate the achievements of women.
- [School funding: open letter to Peter Dutton](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-open-letter-to-peter-dutton/) - Parents Victoria is one of 31 organisations that have joined the Australian Education Union (AEU) to write to Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, urging him to support the public school funding agreements recently announced by the Albanese Government. The open letter, published in The Australian last week, calls on Peter Dutton to give bipartisan support to the
- [Low parent satisfaction: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/low-parent-satisfaction-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported yesterday on the recent decline in parent satisfaction with public schools in Victoria. The article begins: "Parent satisfaction rates for Victorian public high schools have hit almost 15-year lows at the same time as students are feeling more disconnected, amid fears that ongoing teacher shortages and a reliance on technology in classrooms
- [New phonics test: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/new-phonics-test-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today on a new statewide phonics test for Year 1 students, which is much faster to complete than the previously-used test. According to the article: The new 10-minute assessment, part of the state’s move toward an “explicit instruction” model of literacy learning, will replace the contentious English Online Interview (EOI), which the
- [School size: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-size-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article today about large schools and how they rate academically. The article begins: NAPLAN results for Australia’s largest schools show that bigger isn’t always better, with a key parents’ group urging greater investment to make low-enrolment schools more attractive. Of the top 100 largest secondary schools by enrolment last year, 25
- [Student voice: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/student-voice-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun published an article today with some of the key recommendations from the Victorian Student Representative Council (VicSRC) 2024 Congress Report. Under the headline "Victorian students say their voice is the key to fixing ‘strained’ education system in new report", the article begins: Teacher shortages and assessments that are “no longer fit for purpose”
- [School Funding Agreements: PV Media Release](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-agreements-pv-media-release/) - School Funding Agreements: A welcome step, but the big questions remain. PV has cautiously welcomed the School Funding Agreements
- [School canteens: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-canteens-pv-media-comment/) - An article in today's Herald-Sun looks at the issue of prices in Victoria's school canteens. According to the article: Victorian parents are forking out for the most expensive tuckshop bills in the country, as new data reveals the price of a school canteen lunch in the state is $1.55 higher than the national average. With
- [Attempted child abductions: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/attempted-child-abductions-pv-media-comment/) - Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in a recent news.com.au article about a spate of attempted child abductions on Melbourne streets late last year. The article points out that child abductions are "extremely rare" according to police, but reports on four attempted child abductions in the final weeks of Term 4 2024. Gail is
- [Vic & SA funding agreements announced](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vic-sa-funding-agreements-announced/) - School funding agreements between the Federal Government and the governments of Victoria and South Australia were announced late last week. A joint media release from the Federal and Victorian governments gives the following details: As part of the agreement, the Commonwealth will provide an additional 5 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) to
- [ACSSO welcomes Greens proposal on school costs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/acsso-welcomes-greens-proposal-on-school-costs/) - The Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) has welcomed the Greens' proposal to end public school fees and a provide a back-to-school allowance. Parents Victoria is a member of ACSSO. ACSSO's 22 January media release begins: The Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) applauds the Greens' bold proposal to eliminate public school fees
- [School toilet upgrades: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-toilet-upgrades-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun has published an article about the cost of school toilet upgrades across the state. The article begins: "More than $3.3 million has been contracted by the state government for school toilet upgrades, in what one MP is calling a questionable use of taxpayer funds." The article lists some planned toilet upgrades at Victorian
- [Conference report](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/conference-report-2/) - Our online Conference on 27 November opened with a welcome from Education Minister Ben Carroll. While the Minister could not be there in person, we thank him for making the time to produce a video message. In his message, the Minister acknowledged parents as "the first and perhaps most important" educators in their children's lives.
- [Finding Calm in the Chaos](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/finding-calm-in-the-chaos/) - Understanding and Managing Stress for You and Your Child Dr Jodi Richardson Parenting is a constant juggle of responsibilities and emotions that can often feel overwhelming. From sleepless nights with a baby to school challenges and teen struggles, every stage brings its own unique stresses. If you’ve ever felt like you’re barely keeping up, you’re
- [Annual Report](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/annual-report/) - The Parents Victoria 2024 Annual Report is now available. The report reviews the major issues PV has worked on this year, including school safety, family engagement, school funding and the "Value education, value those who provide it" campaign in support of teachers. There's also a report on ACSSO (the national parent body, of which PV
- [Attitudes to School Survey 2024](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/attitudes-to-school-survey/) - The annual Attitudes to School Survey (AtoSS) 2024 results are out and this year’s survey into the schooling experience shows significant improvements in all stages of schooling compared to 2023. The largest improvements were reported for health and wellbeing factors, many being the most positive results since health and wellbeing questions were added to AtoSS
- [School Saving Bonus - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-saving-bonus-pv-media-comment/) - The Age published an article today about problems with the roll-out of the School Saving Bonus. The article begins: "Parents struggling to claim the state government’s $400 school saving bonus fear they could miss out after technical glitches marred the rollout, while others are frustrated over restrictions on how they can spend the money." Parents
- [Virtual School Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/virtual-school-victoria/) - Which Victorian school has the most students? The answer may surprise you - it's Virtual School Victoria (VSV), which provides online education for Victorian students. This article by VSV staff member Rob Mason tells the story: As the Team Leader, Social Worker - Student Wellbeing at Virtual School Victoria (VSV), I’m excited to share our
- [School funding agreement passes Parliament](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-funding-agreement-passes-parliament/) - The Better and Fairer Schools (Funding and Reform) Bill was passed by Federal Parliament last night. Education Minister Jason Clare's media release points out that this will enable increased Federal funding to flow to public schools around Australia. However, the Minister's release does not commit to funding all public schools to 100% of the Schooling
- [AI-assisted report writing: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/ai-assisted-report-writing-pv-media-comment/) - Should teachers be banned from using Artificial Intelligence to write student reports? This question was addressed by ABC Radio Melbourne's Justin Smith yesterday on the Drive program. Justin interviewed Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy about the issue. Gail commented that parents expect individual, personalised comments that are specific to their child, and that the use
- [VCE exam errors: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vce-exam-errors-pv-media-comment/) - The fallout from the accidental release of exam information on the VCAA website continues, with 7 News reporting that some families are considering legal action if students miss out on university places due to the error. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy was interviewed on the 4pm 7 News bulletin on 19 November. Here are Gail's
- [VCAA action to address exam errors](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/vcaa-action-to-address-exam-errors/) - Are you affected by the errors that have impacted the 2024 VCE examinations? The VCAA is planning to deal with the errors by using its well-established "anomalous grade check process". You can read the details on the VCAA website. Read more on VCAA website
- [School costs: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-costs-pv-media-comment/) - The Herald-Sun reported today on the true cost of sending your child to school in Victoria. The article mostly focuses on private schools, but also includes some information on public schools for comparison. Our CEO Gail McHardy is quoted in this section of the article. State schools, which rely primarily on taxpayer funds, charge much
- [Pupil-free days: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/pupil-free-days-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reports today on the possibility of more pupil-free days in Victorian schools. Victorian teachers may attempt to follow their NSW counterparts by increasing the number of pupil-free days from 5 to 8 per year. Negotiations on the employment agreement for Victorian government school teachers will begin next year. The article points out that,
- [4-day week for teachers: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/4-day-week-for-teachers-pv-media-comment/) - The Age reported today on a suite of reforms to teachers' working conditions, developed by academics at Monash University and supported by the Australian Education Union. The reforms were developed after interviews with 8,000 teachers, principals and support staff. According to the article: The researchers found more funding for schools, better pay for educators, smaller
- [Funding "big lie" - SOS](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/funding-big-lie-sos/) - Save Our Schools (SOS) has just released a statement headed, "Jason Clare’s Big Lie on Public School Funding". The statement concerns the use of "accounting tricks" to misrepresent how much the states are contributing as part of their share of funding public schools. The SOS statement begins: The Federal Education Minister, Jason Clare, has adopted
- [Tasmania signs school funding deal](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tasmania-signs-school-funding-deal/) - The Guardian reported last week that that Tasmania has signed a new school funding agreement with the Federal Government, with the Federal government lifting its funding commitment by 2.5% to 22.5% of the schooling resource standard (SRS) and Tasmania funding the remaining 77.5%. The Australian Education Union (AEU) has dismissed the agreement as a “cloak-and-dagger
- [$85m pool at private school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/85m-pool-at-private-school/) - The Sunday Age reported yesterday on further evidence of the over-funding of private schools. According to the article by journalist Noel Towell, "The federal education minister is demanding answers about the public funding of an exclusive Melbourne private school after The Age revealed the school was spending $85 million on a new sports complex." The
- [Funding stand-off: public schools 'could lose $30bn'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/funding-stand-off-public-schools-could-lose-30bn/) - The current stand-off on school funding between the Federal and state governments could be catastrophic for public schools if agreement is not reached by the 30 September deadline, according to economist Trevor Cobbold from Save Our Schools (SOS). SOS has just published a media release outlining the huge potential losses for public schools. According to
- [Parent-teacher-student conferences: PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-teacher-student-conferences-pv-media-comment/) - A recent article in the Age looks at parent-teacher interviews, in particular how many schools are now including the student in the conversation. Many schools now refer to them as "parent-teacher-student conferences", or "student-led conferences". The article quotes students, teachers and academics speaking in favour of the 'three-way' approach. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy is
- [Joint letter on public school funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/joint-letter-on-public-school-funding/) - This is the text of a letter sent yesterday to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Federal Education Minister Jason Clare. The signatories represent parents, teachers and principals from Victorian public schools. You can download the letter as a PDF. Dear Prime Minister and Minister, Our organisations are taking the unprecedented step of collectively writing to
- [NAPLAN results and school funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/naplan-results-and-school-funding/) - This statement from Save Our Schools (SOS) links the recently-released NAPLAN results with the ongoing funding stand-off between state and federal governments. Written by economist Trevor Cobbold, the summary below gives the 'headline' message, with more detail available in the full statement, (click the button below.) The latest NAPLAN results reveal the enormity of the
- [School buildings - PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/school-buildings-pv-media-comment/) - ABC Radio Melbourne's Trevor Chappell discussed the state of Victoria's public school buildings on his Afternoons program yesterday. Trevor began with the comment that "it's all very well to build new schools, but what about the schools we already have?" Trevor interviewed Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy. Gail emphasised the importance of adequate facilities for

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/) - Our childrenOur concernParents voice in government school educationAbout usThink. Wait. Communicate.Something to say to your school?Read moreValue educationValue those who provide itRead moreFully fundpublic schoolsNOWRead more Parents, it's time to take action on school funding! Step 1 - listen to the podcast below 150 years of public education in Victoria2022 is the 150th anniversary of
- [Newsletter](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/news-and-views/newsletter/) - Our Newsletter: Parents Voice Parents Voice is the official newsletter of Parents Victoria. It is distributed via email monthly during school terms. It contains updates on current issues in education, reports on Parents Victoria activities, news from Parent Clubs around the state and lots more. You can subscribe to Parents Voice free of charge, see below.
- [Board and staff](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/about-us/board-and-staff/) - Board Tooba Awais Chair/Immediate Past President Tooba is a parent, an experienced and high-achieving teacher, and a former Victorian Director of ACSSO. In her teaching career, Tooba has always worked to involve the wider community in education, to provide students with the most rewarding experiences. She has extensive experience working with students from different cultural
- [Contact](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/contact/) - Advice and support If you need advice, help or support with a school or Parent Club issue, please fill in our online Request for Support form (below). We can only help with issues at Victorian government schools. (If you wish to raise a concern at a Catholic or independent school, see the Education Department website for more
- [About Us](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/about-us/) - Who we areParents Victoria (PV) is a statewide non-profit organisation that supports and represents parents of students in Victorian government schools.Parents Victoria provides parents with a voice, presenting an organised parent perspective to State and Federal Governments, educational bureaucracies and institutions, community organisations and the media.Non-politicalWe are not affiliated with any political party. We pursue
- [Our history](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/about-us/our-history/) - Parents Victoria: Our Children, Our Concern The official history of our organisation, Parents Victoria: Our Children, Our Concern, was published in 2012. It is a comprehensive history of the organisation, founded in 1925, which has helped shape public education in the State of Victoria. Priced at only $14.95, this book is a testament to the difference
- [Annual Conference](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-involved/annual-conference/) - About Annual Conference - general information Annual Conference is one of the major events on the Parents Victoria calendar.Big issuesConference allows parents to explore some of the ‘big issues’ confronting education across the state and the nation.Each year there is a Conference theme which reflects one or more of the major challenges facing education generally
- [Fundraising](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/fundraising/) - A good school fundraiser is a social event and a community-builder, as well as just raising money for the school. Here are some interesting fundraising ideas that have come to our attention. Most of these are from our friend Mandy, the ‘Fundraising Whisperer‘. Advertisement Fete stall ideasA school fete can be a wonderful community event – and
- [Constitutions](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/constitutions/) - All clubs need an approved ConstitutionAll Parent Clubs must ensure they have a Ministerially approved constitution, which is consistent with the current Education Regulations .Old Constitutions are no longer validIf your Constitution has not been updated since 2019, then it is no longer valid. We know that there are thriving and well-organised Parent Clubs that
- [Advertising](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-involved/advertising/) - Reach our networkParents Victoria represents thousands of parents across Victoria and has strong links with many organisations in the education sector.We are happy to work with appropriate businesses to forward details of your products and services to parents in government schools. You can advertise in our newsletter Parents Voice, on this website, on our Facebook page or at
- [Media](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/media/) - Media contactGail McHardy (Chief Executive Officer)Phone: 0413 589 627EmailEmailing or leaving a message?Please include:Your name and which media outlet you’re fromThe issue you want PV to comment onYour deadlineHow and when we can get back to you. Who we representWe represent parents and Parent Clubs at Victorian government schools.We are happy to comment on isssues
- [Frequently asked questions](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/faqs-management-and-finances/) - On this page you will find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions we receive at the Parents Victoria office. We hope you find the answer you’re looking for!If you don’t, you can contact our office with any Parent Club related questions. Page index Fundraising What if the school refuses to discuss the spending
- [Starting up a new Parent Club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/starting-up-a-new-parent-club/) - If your school doesn’t have a Parent Club, you can start one!First stepsBefore you start on the formal procedure, do your networking with other parents. Make sure you have a core group of parents who are willing and able to form the first committee. You might get questions from some parents about the value of
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- [News and Views](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/news-and-views/) - Search See our newsletter archive for more news and views. Volunteering survey We are well aware of the huge contribution parent volunteers make to Victorian schools. But is volunteering in decline? Recent public commentary suggests volunteering is Read More » 23/04/2026 No Comments Fete stall ideas A school fete can be a wonderful community event
- [Education Issues](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/education-issues/) - Relationship based EducationRelationship based Education is a philosophy of education that puts relationships at the centre. It is a tool for long-term culture change and for addressing challenges. Articles RbE case study: Ocean Grove Primary School School can’t: “Prioritise relationships” Turning a school around: relationships are ‘the most crucial part’ Read more Family EngagementParent-school partnerships
- [Submissions](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/news-and-views/submissions/) - Parents Victoria makes formal submissions to various Government inquiries and reviews on educational issues. We also contribute to Education Department consultations in writing and by attending meetings, workshops and forums… but those would be too numerous to list here!Our recent submissions are listed here. Public school funding: PV submission 12/01/2026 Parents Victoria made a submission to
- [Get Involved](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-involved/) - Join usAdd your voice to our network of parents and education stakeholdersMembership informationAdvertise with usReach our network of active and engaged Parent ClubsAdvertising informationAnnual ConferenceAn opportunity to learn, have your say and network with other parentsConference information MembershipJoin us! Membership is available to Parent Clubs, schools and individuals. Members receive special benefits, including the satisfaction
- [Unsubscribe - alternative recipient](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-involved/membership/unsubscribe-alternative-recipient/) - We’re sorry to see you go!Parents Victoria is the Department of Education stakeholder organisation representing and supporting parents and Parent Clubs in Victorian Government schoolsWhether or not your school has a Parent Club, we provide important information and support that benefits the whole school community.You have unsubscribed from our emails, but could you
- [Membership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/get-involved/membership/) - Who can be Parents Victoria members? Parent Clubs at Victorian government schools, parents/guardians of children at government schools, or the schools themselves, can join by simply registering as members. Any individual or organisation can join as a Friend of Parents Victoria. Contact registration form Registered Full MemberAny school with a formally constituted Parent Club. Our preference is
- [Meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/meetings/) - Love them or hate them, meetings are an important part of running your club. Learn to get the best out of your precious time at meetings with the practical advice in this section. A good place to start is the meetings overview. Meetings Annual General Meeting Advance planning You will need extra time to prepare for
- [Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/) - Club Constitutions FAQs Fundraising Toolkit Why Parent Clubs?Among the benefits of a Parent Club are:It can be a forum to discuss items of mutual interest and collective concern, and to share positive stories. This can be a very valuable source of constructive, formalised feedback for schools & your community.It can provide a welcoming, informal way
- [Finances](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/finances/) - Looking after the club finances can be challenging if you don’t have any experience in the relevant procedures. Here’s some advice for Club treasurers. A good place to start is the Finances overview. Finances Education Department and beyond On this page we have listed various resources on the Education Department website and other organisations that may
- [Role of the Parent Club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/role-of-the-parent-club/) - This section has general information about what Parent Clubs do, why they are so valuable to a school community and how they fit in with School Council and school administration.There is also a handy list of resources provided by the Education Department and other relevant organisations. Role of the Parent Club The School Strategic Plan
- [Leadership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/leadership/) - This section contains information about the major roles on your Committee and some general advice on decision-making and inclusive leadership. Leadership Committee: office bearers overview All clubs must have a president, secretary and treasurer. Clubs that are members of Parents Victoria should also have a Parents Victoria representative. Many clubs Read More » Leadership Committee:
- [Planning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/planning/) - You might feel that you don’t have time for planning, but it actually saves time in the long run. Good planning gives everyone confidence that things will run smoothly, and makes it easier to get people on board to help out. Planning Annual Calendar Annual Calendar Creating an annual calendar for your club’s activities will
- [Regulations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/regulations/) - Parent Clubs need to work within a framework of government regulations. There are specific regulations for Parent Clubs, so even if you have experience with other non-profit groups, you may find the regulatory environment is different for your Parent Club. Finances Education Department and beyond On this page we have listed various resources on the
- [Build participation](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/build-participation/) - How do you ensure that everyone in your school community knows about the great work your Parent Club is doing? How do you ensure everyone feels welcome to join in the Club’s activities and have their say? This section contains lots of practical advice about how to build active participation in your Parent Club. Build
- [Parents Victoria info](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/parent-clubs/toolkit/parents-victoria-info/) - This section has information about Parents Victoria itself – our Constitution, Policy Manual and other documentation. Planning Annual Calendar Annual Calendar Creating an annual calendar for your club’s activities will help you to plan ahead. You can refer to it at each meeting so Read More » Meetings Annual General Meeting Advance planning You will
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## Issues

- [Family Engagement Solutions](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-solutions/) - The importance of family engagement in schools is recognised all around the world, not least in the USA, where there is a body called National PTA, representing Parent-Teacher Associations and advocating for strong family engagement in schools. They have an interesting listing of family engagement programs from all around America, including: Families and Schools Together (FAST) - a
- [Public education a force for social cohesion](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/public-education-a-force-for-social-cohesion/) - This article from education expert Pasi Sahlberg and economist Trevor Cobbold tackles the issue of public education and social cohesion. They argue that regular, meaningful contact between young people from different backgrounds, that is the common condition of non-selective public schools, reduces prejudice and helps cultivate the habits of respect on which social cohesion depends.
- [Welcome to Country at Lowanna College](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/welcome-to-country-at-lowanna-college/) - Here's a great example of a school creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for its students and wider community. It's from Lowanna College in the Latrobe Valley. To mark the beginning of the new school year in 2026 and welcome new Year 7 students and their families to Lowanna College, the school was honoured to
- [Students' perspective on parent engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/students-perspective-on-parent-engagement/) - This may be the most important research of all: what do young people say about the importance of parent engagement in their schooling? ARACY’s research report Please just say you’re proud of me: Perspectives of Young People on Parent Engagement and Doing Well at School is based on consultations with nearly 100 Australian students in
- [Accounting 'tricks' take funding from schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/accounting-tricks-take-funding-from-schools/) - An analysis by economist Trevor Cobbold published in February 2026 shows that Victorian public schools remain massively underfunded. Trevor's article, published on the Save Our Schools website, describes the way Victorian schools are further short-changed by accounting 'tricks'. The State Government's share of school funding is 70% of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), but by
- [Study Work Grow website](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/study-work-grow-website/) - The Study Work Grow website is a useful online resource to help senior students - and their families - through the maze of career and further study choices. Created by a social enterprise, the website covers subject choices, vocational education, scholarships, and a special page for parents. If you and your children are starting to
- [Mental Health in Primary Schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/mental-health-in-primary-schools/) - The Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS) initiative provides funding to schools to employ a Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader, who will then lead a whole-school approach to mental health and wellbeing at their school. The MHiPS initiative was run as a pilot program from from 2020 to 2022, by the Victorian Department of Education
- [Parent engagement: Lessons from research](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-engagement-lessons-from-research/) - This research report provides strong evidence for the value of parent engagement in children's education. The report provides a synopsis of the published literature pertaining to parental engagement in both the home and school environments. On the basis of the evidence in the literature, it identifies those approaches which have the greatest influence and impact
- [Low socioeconomic communities](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/low-socioeconomic-communities/) - Research from ARACY and the Federal Department of Education provides some guidance on how to improve family engagement in low socioeconomic communities. Researching parent engagement: A qualitative field study (ARACY) Parental Engagement in Schooling in Low Socio-economic Status Communities (Federal Dep't of Education)
- [Parent engagement in ACT Schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-engagement-in-act-schools/) - The Australian Research Alliance on Children and Youth (ARACY) has produced an inspiring collection of family engagement case studies from schools in the Australian Capital Territory. These schools have come up with simple, inventive and creative ways to engage parents in every aspect of their children's school life - reading programs, play, dealing with conflict,
- [Parent Engagement Implementation Guide](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-engagement-implementation-guide/) - This resource from the Australian Research Alliance on Children and Youth (ARACY) provides school communities with practical guidance on implementing successful parent and family engagement practices. It focuses on the ‘how’ rather than just the ‘why’. The guide draws from a wide body of research to provide evidence and examples of how you can make
- [Family Engagement research in the ACT](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-engagement-research-in-the-act/) - This research project in the ACT provided a strong evidence base to support family engagement in ACT primary and high schools. The project was conducted by the ACT Government in partnership with ARACY and ACT P&Cs (among others) and is titled Education Capital: Progressing Parent Engagement in the ACT. Download report from ACT Education website
- [Beyond Academics: The Relationship Blueprint](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/beyond-academics-the-relationship-blueprint/) - This is a very thought-provoking video discussion between two thought leaders in the areas of education and child development: Dr Billy Garvey – Developmental paediatrician, researcher and author, Billy is also the founder of the social enterprise Guiding Growing Minds and co‑host of the “Pop Culture Parenting” podcast. He was named the 2025 Victorian Father of the Year.
- [Safety and insurance at school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/safety-and-insurance-at-school/) - Student safety is a priority for Parents Victoria. Over the years we have campaigned on a range of safety issues including road safety (speed limits at school crossings) and cyber-safety. A report in the Herald-Sun in early 2021 highlighted the issue of safety on school playground equipment. According to the article, more than 1,000 primary
- [For schools: further reading](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/for-schools-further-reading/) - Resources for teachers and school leaders - online articles and books covering a wide range of topics related to RbE: kindness, trust, gratitude, forgiveness and positive education.
- [For parents: further reading](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/for-parents-further-reading/) - Do kids really 'misbehave' for attention? What's the difference between appreciation and praise, and why does it matter? These and many other topics, specifically for parents.
- [Gonski Review](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/gonski-review/) - The Review to Achieve Educational Excellence in Australian Schools was established by the Federal Government in July 2017 to examine evidence and make recommendations on how school funding should be used to improve school performance outcomes. The Review panel was chaired by Mr David Gonski AC. Its report Through Growth to Achievement was published in
- [Careers webinar Q & A](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/careers-webinar-q-a/) - Parents Victoria and the Education Department ran a webinar in May 2021 titled "Supporting your child on their career journey". The webinar included a Q & A session - here is a transcript. The questions cover school based career education, work experience, gap years, gaining life skills for students and post-school course selection. School based
- [Know Your Country campaign](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/know-your-country-campaign/) - Parents Victoria is an ally of the Know Your Country campaign.
- [Transition to secondary school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/transition-to-secondary-school/) - The move from primary to secondary school is an exciting and sometimes difficult stage in your child's education. Resources are available to help parents guide their children through this time of change. Education Department website - Planning and preparation, vulnerable students, Student Transition and Resilience Training (START) and more. Make sure you look through all
- [Starting school - our tips](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/starting-school-our-tips/) - There is plenty of 'starting school' advice for parents around, (see below for links), focusing on how to prepare your children for their very first school-day, moving to a new school, or simply for return to school after the long summer break. Our Tip Sheet on this subject has a slightly different focus; establishing and
- [Public school funding: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/public-school-funding-pv-submission/) - Parents Victoria made a submission to the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into Public School Funding in late 2025. The submission makes the following points (among others): Victorian government schools are funded well below the SRS benchmark that governments themselves have endorsed as the minimum required to meet student needs. The failure of the Victorian and Commonwealth
- [What principals learned from leading through chaos...](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/what-principals-learned-from-leading-through-chaos/) - Relationships matter! A 2025 article in the Educator focuses on a research paper from Edith Cowan University, which examined what school principals say they have learned from leading their schools through crisis situations such as COVID lockdowns, bushfires, cyclones and flooding. Among other findings, the principals reported that in crisis times they: ...prioritised the relationships they
- [Evidence for Relationship based Education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/evidence-for-relationship-based-education/) - The resources listed here provide research evidence for the principles of Relationship Based Education. They include academic papers and popular works in the field of psychology and education.
- [Joan Kirner Award](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/joan-kirner-parent-participation-award/) - The Joan Kirner Parent Participation Award is an annual award given by Parents Victoria to a Victorian parent or Parent Club who has demonstrated, encouraged, or facilitated parent or family engagement in their school. The award is named in honor of former Victorian Premier (and Parents Victoria President) Joan Kirner, who was a passionate advocate
- [Suspension from school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/suspension-from-school-5/) - Suspension is the temporary removal of a student from school. According to the Education Department, "Suspensions are a discipline measure when all other options have not worked." If your child has been suspended from school, the Department has provided comprehensive information on what processes must be followed, what are your rights and responsibilities, and where
- [Alternatives to suspension](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/alternatives-to-suspension/) - These two newspaper articles explore alternative approaches to suspending students as a disciplinary measure. "Help disruptive students, don’t just suspend them" This article from The Conversation quotes extensive research that shows suspension doesn’t work in the long term. Read the article "School Principals want more alternatives to suspension" This article from the Sydney Morning
- [Radical empathy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/radical-empathy/) - "Growing up in a gang-ridden neighbourhood in Cape Town, you come to assume that children are problems to manage rather than humans with potential. Being labelled as ‘troubled’ or having teachers pity you... is a reality that many children face." In this powerful blog post, doctoral researcher Le-Anne Goliath explains Radical Empathy: When we talk
- [Endorsement: Dr Karen Heath](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-dr-karen-heath/) - (Lecturer, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music) I recently had the pleasure of working with John Hendry in a professional development day for tertiary and secondary teachers. In the lead-up to this event, John and I met up several times to discuss how we would structure the sessions and to share the nature of the content we
- [Endorsement: Matthew Voigt](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-matthew-voigt/) - (Head of Music & Creative Industries, Box Hill Institute) Reflections on John’s Workshop: Empowering Music Educators Through Flow and Connection John’s recent professional development workshop offered music educators a deeply enriching experience, blending theory and practice around the concept of “flow” in creative disciplines and how building relationships is the key to successful learning environments.
- [Understanding Maths Anxiety - guide for parents and carers](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/understanding-maths-anxiety-guide-for-parents-and-carers/) - The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership has developed a new resource to help parents and carers support their children’s classroom learning at home. Developed in partnership with Parents Victoria, this guide helps families recognise and reduce maths anxiety, offering strategies for building your child’s confidence in maths through positive conversations and strong school partnerships.
- [Bullying](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-cost-of-bullying/) - Parents Victoria advocates for a safe learning environment for all students. We recognise the devastating impact bullying can have on children. We believe all schools need adequate resources to combat bullying, including a bullying policy and procedures, training for staff in how to deal with bullying, and a partnership approach with parents. The Victorian Education
- [Senior secondary pathways](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/senior-secondary-pathways/) - Senior secondary education in Victoria has changed. Students in their senior years of secondary school now have a range of alternative pathways towards a career. VCE Vocational Major The VCE Vocational Major is a 2-year applied learning program within the VCE that replaced Intermediate and Senior VCAL in 2023. In 2024, more than 26,600 Victorian
- [Generative AI: What parents need to know](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/generative-ai-what-parents-need-to-know/) - This podcast from the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership is for parents and carers. Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy interviews Michael Kollaras (Academy Expert Teacher in Residence) and asks the questions many parents and carers will also be asking: Just what is Generative AI? What can it do? How is it different from other
- [Think. Wait. Communicate](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/think-wait-communicate/) - Something to say to your school? Think (about what you want to say) Wait (seek an appropriate time) Communicate (clearly and respectfully) Most families have positive and constructive relationships with their child’s school. But sometimes things do go wrong, and feelings can run high. In keeping with Parents Victoria’s mission, vision and goals, our objective
- [Victorian Teaching and Learning Model 2.0](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-teaching-and-learning-model-2-0/) - The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership has developed a new resource to help parents and carers support their children’s classroom learning at home. Developed in partnership with Parents Victoria, the resource provides a clear explanation of the changes to the VTLM 2.0 - how students learn and how teachers teach, with tips and questions
- [Family Engagement Practice Guide from AERO](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-practice-guide-from-aero/) - The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) published a guide to family engagement for schools in 2005. At only 8 pages, it's a brief, plain-language guide for schools to engage effectively with families. The Practice Guide focuses on: What Family Engagement is - and what it isn't What research tells us about the effectiveness of family
- [Promising approaches to family engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/promising-approaches-to-family-engagement/) - What are the approaches to family engagement that actually work? The Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) has provided a quick and easy way for teachers and school leaders to catch up on the latest research to answer this question. You can quickly learn which approaches are likely to be effective, and which have been shown
- [Inclusive education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/inclusive-education/) - How parents of autistic and non-autistic children can work together to create a better school environment for *all* students
- [What we offer](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/what-we-offer/) - If you’re interested in the ideas and resources on this website, you may want to take the next step and invite John Hendry to work with your school. John takes a holistic approach, working with staff, students and parents to create positive and enduring cultural change. Every school is different and John will tailor his
- [Making home learning accessible to all](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/making-home-learning-accessible-to-all/) - Here's an interesting story from the USA about a program called Family Playlists that engages students, teachers and parents in a child's learning pursuits. The playlists deliver lessons, games, and exercises via cell phone in more than 100 languages. They then turn homework on its head, asking the students to teach their parents, caregivers, or
- [Engagement with families of senior students](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/engagement-with-families-of-senior-students/) - Families tend to become less engaged with their children's schooling as the students move into their senior years. Though sustaining a strong connection between school and home can become more difficult in middle and high school, it’s worth the extra effort to support long-term student success. We found a video on the Edutopia website recently with
- [Tracking apps - useful or harmful?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/tracking-apps-useful-or-harmful/) - The use of phone tracking apps (which allow parents to know the whereabouts of their child's mobile phone at any time) is on the increase. Some parents may view this as a simple safety measure, for example to check their child got to their destination as planned. But there is also concern that being tracked
- [Single-sex or co-ed: does it make a difference?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/single-sex-or-co-ed-does-it-make-a-difference/) - An article in the Age in May 2025 addressed a question that's often on parents' minds when choosing a school for their children - are single-sex or co-ed schools better? And is the answer different for girls than it is for boys? The article prompted us to look up some online research on the topic
- [Family Engagement Officers in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-officers-in-schools/) - One strategy for increasing family engagement that has worked in many schools is to employ a dedicated Family Engagement Officer. On this page we give some examples of how this works, including a two case studies from Victorian schools and a detailed research project from Glenroy College. How Family Engagement Officers can make it work
- [School can't - what works?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-refusal-what-works/) - This article on the ABC Everyday website focuses on Rebecca Plunkett from Travancore School and her experience in helping students with school can't - or as she prefers to call it, "School avoidance". Rebecca worked on Travancore's In2School program - an intervention program delivered in partnership with the Melbourne Graduate School of Education and the
- [School can't: "Prioritise relationships"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-refusal-prioritise-relationships/) - This article in the Conversation, by two Flinders University researchers, examines school can't (also known as school refusal) in Australia. They observed and interviewed teachers and students across ten South Australian schools from all sectors. They found that a school’s response to a student who has stopped wanting to come to school for whatever reason
- [School can't](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-refusal/) - The issue of school can't, also referred to as school refusal, has been in the media in recent years: The Age published a comprehensive article on 2 February 2023, exploring the prevalence and impacts of the problem. Following the Age article, Shadow Education Minister Matthew Bach wrote an opinion article in the Age, which drew a backlash from parents
- [Ban children from social media?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/ban-under-16s-from-social-media/) - Legislation to enforce the ban on under-16s using social media has been introduced into Federal Parliament.
- [RbE case study: Ocean Grove Primary School](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/case-study-ocean-grove-primary-school/) - Ocean Grove Primary School began to bring Relationship based Education into the school in early 2022 with a staff in-service day presented by John Hendry.
- [Family partnerships and student wellbeing](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-partnerships-and-student-wellbeing/) - Be You empowers and supports educators to promote mental health and wellbeing for children and young people. It is delivered by Beyond Blue in collaboration with Early Childhood Australia and headspace. Be You provides educators with professional development, tools and resources regarding many aspects of mental health, including the importance of family partnerships for student
- [A partnership approach to education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/a-partnership-approach-to-education/) - Strong partnerships between schools, families and communities are a vital – and often neglected – component in the provision of a high-quality education. Research over decades from all around the world has shown the benefits of family engagement for students’ educational outcomes. Family/school partnerships also support students’ mental health and wellbeing. That's the first paragraph
- [Artificial Intelligence policy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/artificial-intelligence-policy/) - The Victorian Department of Education (DE) published its policy on Generative Artificial Intelligence in June 2024. The policy covers issues such as: Opt-in consent from parents and carers before using any generative AI tool that requires personal information Protecting student data and privacy by restricting the uploading of personally identifiable information into generative AI tools
- [Inclusive schools are better for <i><b>all</b></i> students](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/inclusive-schools-are-better-for-all-students/) - Research shows that all students benefit when a school has an inclusive ethos, according to an article on the ABC Education website. According to the article, "Large-scale research from the field demonstrates that inclusion of gender and sexuality diversity has positive impacts for the entirety of the student community." The article also points out that:
- [Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-academy-of-teaching-and-leadership/) - At the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership, we create and offer evidence-based professional learning programs, events and initiatives designed to take Victoria’s highly skilled teachers and school leaders from great to exceptional. The Academy promotes the expertise and commitment of our teachers and principals to increase appreciation and understanding of the positive impact Victoria’s
- [Year 9 - the 'lost year'?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/year-9-the-lost-year/) - This article in The Conversation focuses on the disengagement that some students experience at school, often beginning in Year 9. According to the article: Each year in Victoria, thousands of students disengage from school between the start of Year 9 and the end of Year 12. Many are expelled or suspended. Others simply switch off
- [Phonics - guide for parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/phonics-guide-for-parents/) - Reading is a foundational life skill and a source of pleasure and wonder. It’s one of the most important skills children learn and the teaching of phonics plays an important role in helping kids to become confident, fluent readers. The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership has worked with Parents Victoria to produce a simple, evidence-based
- [Empowering teenage girls](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/empowering-teenage-girls/) - This 2025 article from clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller focuses on teenage girls - their strengths and their challenges. The article begins: Much of the recent literature on adolescent girls focuses on rising levels of anxiety, body image concerns, and social pressures. While these challenges are real and should not be dismissed, an equally important narrative
- [Learning from families of children with disabilities ](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/learning-from-families-of-children-with-disabilities/) - This article from the Brookings Institution points out that, "For many families of children with disabilities, being involved in their child’s learning and school is a must." The article explores what we can learn from families of children with disabilities about inclusive family, school, and community engagement. Among the principles it outlines are: Position families
- [John Hendry OAM](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/john-hendry-oam/) - The Relationship based Education program for schools was developed by John Hendry OAM. John leads and facilitates the workshops and sessions in schools. Experience John has been an educator for more than 50 years, in many roles; teacher, School Councillor, many leadership positions and student welfare roles. He is one of the originators of Positive
- [Young people and porn - information for parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/young-people-and-porn-information-for-parents/) - "It’s time we talked" is a violence prevention initiative that supports young people, parents, schools, government and the community sector to understand and address the influence of pornography.
- [When we partner, everyone wins!](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/when-we-partner-everyone-wins/) - This webinar video features Dr Karen Mapp, professor of practice at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Karen shares her expertise on the benefits of family engagement, what effective engagement looks like and how schools can make it happen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZu8stKlozk
- [Expulsion from school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/expulsion-from-school/) - According to the Education Department website, "Being expelled means a student is permanently excluded from attending a school. It's the most serious discipline option for a school... Expulsion can happen if a student’s behaviour is so serious it’s dangerous to other students and school staff." If your child has been expelled from school, the Department has
- [Students with disabilities](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/students-with-disabilities/) - Effective communication is the key; two-way exchanges with families as genuine partners. In communicating effectively with families it is equally important to empower and encourage families to communicate effectively with schools. Evidence-based guide to engagement This resource from the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) details engagement strategies for families of children with disability. Download PDF/read
- [Victorian School Building Authority](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-school-building-authority/) - The Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) is the agency responsible for the design and build of new schools - and much more! The VSBA is part of the Department of Education and has managed the building and maintenance of Victorian public schools since 2016. Since then, the Authority has opened, on average, 11 new schools
- [myfuture: free career advice](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/myfuture-free-career-advice/) - myfuture is a government-funded service, supported by industry, that supports students to develop the skills and confidence to make more informed career decisions. myfuture’s tools and resources give students the opportunity to learn more about themselves, explore career opportunities, and expand their knowledge about the world of work in a secure, and private space, at
- [Public schools: doing more with less](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/public-schools-doing-more-with-less/) - Research published by Save Our Schools in 2025 shows clearly that Australian public schools bear a very large burden of disadvantage but are under-resourced for the challenge. This is because public schools receive less income than private schools, but enrol far more students from low socio-educationally advantaged (SEA) families. Economist and Save Our Schools National
- [Partners in Parenting: your teen's mental wellbeing](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/partners-in-parenting-your-teens-mental-wellbeing/) - Now more than ever, parents are looking for ways to protect their teenager’s mental wellbeing. The Partners in Parenting program, delivered by Prevention United and Monash University, is a free, evidence-based, online program for parents of teenagers to protect their mental wellbeing. The program includes practical parenting tips that are particularly relevant right now as
- [ARACY field study](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/aracy-field-study/) - Researching parent engagement: A qualitative field study This study published by the Australian Research Alliance on Children and Youth (ARACY) focuses on Aboriginal, low Socio-Economic Status (SES), Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) parents, and parents of children with special needs. It provides strong evidence for the value of parent engagement in those contexts, and recommendations
- [Parenting and mental health](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parenting-and-mental-health/) - Beyond Blue has created a page just for parents, with lots of information about how to support your children's mental health - and your own. As the page says: It’s important to understand that there is no ‘perfect’ family. Families are diverse. Each with its own circumstances, joys and challenges. As a parent, having information
- [Aboriginal families](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/aboriginal-families-2/) - This resource sheet from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Engaging Indigenous parents in their children’s education, identifies the key factors behind successful school engagement programs for Indigenous parents in Australia. It reviews evaluation studies on parental educational engagement in Australia and presents case studies on several programs that directly or indirectly support Indigenous
- [Teenagers and alcohol - parental obligations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/teenagers-and-alcohol-parental-obligations/) - This information on parental obligations regarding minors and alcohol has been supplied to us by Liquor Control Victoria. Teenagers who abuse alcohol can experience issues with brain development, affecting areas associated with attention, memory and decision making. It can also lead to mental health problems, including depression, suicide, and self-harm. Parents play a crucial role
- [Family Engagement Policy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-policy-at-broadmeadows-valley/) - Here's a great example of a Family Engagement Policy from Broadmeadows Valley Primary School in Melbourne's north-west. A few excerpts: From the "Rationale" section: Broadmeadows Valley Primary School recognises that Family Engagement in school benefits students; by solidifying the connection between home and school, complementing and enhancing classroom achievements, fostering a good attitude to learning
- [Settling your child into a new class ](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/settling-your-child-into-a-new-class/) - 6 tips for parents The end of the school year and holidays is an exciting time for many, but for some students and parents, it can also be quite challenging. Many students experience anxiety over changing classes or not being in the same class as their friends. If your child is experiencing worries around
- [Better and Fairer Schools Agreement: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/better-and-fairer-schools-agreement-pv-submission/) - Parents Victoria made a submission to the federal Parliamentary Inquiry into the Better and Fairer Schools (Funding and Reform) Bill, debated in Parliament in 2024 and passed on 26 November. National parent body ACSSO (Australian Council of State School Organisations) also made a submission. As Parents Victoria is a member of ACSSO, we include that
- [Respectful relationships and sexuality education in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/sexuality-education-in-schools/) - Parents are the first and most important educators of their children in relation to values and relationships. They are also uniquely placed to provide sexuality education in a way that responds to their child’s changing needs and to the values taught in the home. Our view Parents Victoria supports all Victorian government school families, so
- [Neuroplasticity and improving learning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/neuroplasticity-and-improving-learning/) - "Neuroplasticity" is a long word, but it simply refers to the brain’s ability to build itself in response to new life experiences and changes in development. Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller has written an information sheet for parents on this topic. The reason it's so important for parents is that the two peak times for changes
- [Innovative Approaches to Family and Community Engagement in Schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/innovative-approaches-to-family-and-community-engagement-in-schools/) - Research shows significant benefits for students and educators when schools actively partner with families to support young people’s learning and development, including lower rates of chronic absenteeism. This video discussion produced by Harvard Graduate School of Education digs into innovative strategies for engaging with families and growing effective home, school, and community partnerships. Speakers Eyal
- [Communicating with your school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/communicating-with-your-school/) - Federal "Right to Disconnect" legislation, passed in 2024, makes explicit that all employees have the right to refuse contact from their employer or a third party (such as a student or a parent) outside of their normal working hours, unless that refusal is unreasonable. This legislation applies to school staff, just like any other employees.
- [Increasing disruption in Australian school classrooms](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/increasing-disruption-in-australian-school-classrooms/) - Parents Victoria made a submission to the Senate Committee Inquiry into "The issue of increasing disruption in Australian school classrooms" in March 2023. Our submission emphasised the importance of building quality relationships in the school environment, improved training and support for teachers, and strong engagement between school and families so that issues can be addressed
- [Choosing a school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/choosing-a-school/) - Choosing a school for your children can be a big decision, and you will have many factors to consider. This article will guide you through
- [Smartphones and mental health](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/smartphones-and-mental-health/) - A recent article in the Conversation looks at the link between smartphones and mental health issues in teenagers. The article focuses on a new book by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt titled The Anxious Generation. According to the article: Haidt argues that the evidence is in. Teenagers’ widespread use of smartphones is causing a mental health
- [Screens: 4 ways to help your child use them well](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/screens-4-ways-to-help-your-child-use-them-well/) - This article in the Conversation reports on a recent review of 100 studies about children and screens. The article begins: Screen time is one of the top worries for Australian parents. In a national February 2021 poll by the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, parents rated it as the number-one health issue facing their children. Our
- [Starting high school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/starting-high-school/) - It’s a big change in their lives. For the past six or seven years, your child has gone to primary school. But now they’re starting high school and going from being a ‘big kid’ to starting over in an unfamiliar environment. This article from Officeworks gives practical advice on how to help your child make
- [Motivation and confidence in children](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/motivation-and-confidence-in-children/) - Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller has written a 2-part resource titled How parents can increase motivation and confidence in children. Andrew begins by acknowledging that "Motivation is a slippery customer," and that kids (and adults) sometimes struggle to find motivation to do the tasks they have to do. The resource explains how brain chemistry can affect motivation,
- [Strengthening parent engagement to improve student outcomes](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/strengthening-parent-engagement-to-improve-student-outcomes/) - This 'Spotlight' article from the Australian Institute for Teacher and School Leadership (AITSL) summarises research on the impact of different types of engagement, and points to resources to assist teachers and leaders to constructively engage with parents. As the article points out, decades of research has shown that when parents engage in their child’s learning,
- [Six global lessons on how family, school, and community engagement can transform education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/brookings-research/) - "Stronger family, school, and community partnerships help ensure that relational trust is at the foundation of schools, and that all the actors can work together toward a shared vision of education in their communities. This shared vision of education is critical to education systems transformation." This report from the Brookings Institution draws on international research
- [Phonics teaching in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/phonics-teaching/) - The debate over phonics teaching (explicit instruction on how to 'sound out' words by learning the sounds that letters or combinations of letters stand for) has raged for decades. This article covers recent developments beginning in early 2024. Mandatory phonics teaching - June 2024 In June 2024 Minister for Education, Ben Carroll announced that all
- [Parliamentary Inquiry - PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/education-inquiry-pv-submission/) - Parents Victoria made a submission to the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into the state education system in Victoria in June 2024
- [Supporting complex learners through family engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/supporting-complex-learners-through-family-engagement/) - This case study from Clarke Road School in NSW documents a project run by Schools Plus in partnership with AERO. The project summary reads: As part of a cluster of 7 New South Wales schools, we have worked together to support complex learning needs of our students through effective family engagement. We found success through
- [Another flaw exposed in school funding model](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/another-flaw-exposed-in-school-funding-model/) - Economist Trevor Cobbold from Save Our Schools has exposed further evidence of the over-funding of private schools, due to a flaw in the way funding needs are assessed. Trevor's article begins: Some private schools have acknowledged that many grandparents pay school fees. In effect, this is an admission that they are over-funded by the taxpayer
- [More endorsements...](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/more-endorsements/) - More endorsements for John Hendry's Relationship based Education work in schools: "Your work at our school has had a profoundly positive impact; kindness is one of our new school values and underpins all conversations we have with the young people in our care, even in the most tricky situations." - Teacher at a south-western
- [Families from refugee backgrounds](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/families-from-refugee-backgrounds/) - Foundation House resources The Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture (Foundation House) has created a guide to help schools engage with parents from refugee backgrounds. The guide includes practical and useful information on: Overcoming language and cultural barriers Transitions Parent-teacher interviews Supporting parents to help their children at home Welcoming parents into the school and
- [Recognising out-of-school learning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/recognising-out-of-school-learning/) - After hearing Debbie Pushor's presentation at the Statewide Principals Conference in June 2019, one school Principal was inspired to do something to recognise the learning children do outside of school hours. Brett Millott, principal at Daylesford Primary School, told his school community about the presentation in an article in the school newsletter: (Debbie's) presentation was
- [Beyond 'visible' diversity](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/beyond-visible-diversity/) - The full title of this article on the ABC Education website is, "There are many ways to embrace cultural diversity in schools, but we need to look beyond 'visible' diversity". The article is by Stanley Wang, former principal of Abbotsford Primary School. In the article, Stanley encourages schools to move away from a shallow "us
- [Community Engagement Officer: a parent perspective](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/community-engagement-officer-a-parent-perspective/) - This article is by Jade Millman, a parent at Whittington Primary School Since having our Community Engagement Officer, Dori, things have improved so much at our school (Whittington Primary School in Geelong). Dori is invaluable and such an important part of our school community. Dori helped the parents start Whittington Primary School's first Parents and Friends
- [The DOGS High Court case](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-dogs-high-court-case/) - The 1981 High Court case brought by the group Defence of Government Schools (DOGS) tested the validity of State Aid to religious schools against Section 116 of the Australian Constitution. The DOGS argued that state funding of religious schools was unconstitutional. Though the court ruled that state funding of religious schools did not contravene the
- [Wellbeing podcasts from Generation Next](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/wellbeing-podcasts-from-generation-next/) - Generation Next is a social enterprise providing education and information to protect and enhance the mental health of young people. They have a great catalogue of podcasts that will be of interest to many parents, including: Bullying The changing role of parents Eating disorders Resilience Autism & ADHD Loneliness in young people The podcasts are hosted
- [Why we chose to send our children to public school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/why-we-chose-to-send-our-children-to-public-school/) - This article from the Guardian, by freelance journalist and parent Dellaram Vreeland, goes into detail about the choice she and her husband made to to send their children to a public school. The story discusses some of the common myths that parents hear about public - and private - schools, and gives powerful reasons to
- [The facts about school funding in Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-facts-about-school-funding-in-victoria/) - This presentation, titled The facts about school funding in Victoria, was delivered by Trevor Cobbold at our 2023 Conference. The presentation clearly demonstrates structural inequality in our education system, in particular under-funding of public schools in Victoria. Download Trevor's presentation This presentation is also available in video form, (with our Communications Officer Alan Davies reading the
- [Self-knowledge, learning and wellbeing](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/self-knowledge-learning-and-wellbeing/) - Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller has written two information sheets for parents and teachers on the value of self-knowledge (or metacognition, to use the psychological term). The first sheet, Metacognition & the Science of Learning introduces the concept of self-efficacy. Andrew writes, "Our assessment of our ability to do something & our willingness to act on
- [Endorsement: Cann River P-12 College](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-cann-river-p-12-college/) - Sessions 1 and 2: P-6s John connected brilliantly with the students. They found his presentation fun and engaging. They loved the pet activity and the magpie story. Staff were also had very positive reviews about John’s presentation... Session 3 and 4: 7/8s John connected and worked very well with the 7/8s. He started the session
- [Endorsement: Sue Jackson PhD](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-sue-jackson-phd/) - (Course Facilitator, The Flow Centre) John Hendry has an outstanding capacity to bring together cutting edge research on optimal learning environments into practical strategies for the classroom. John’s passion for helping others understand how to facilitate optimal learning is unparalleled. The combination of a lifetime of involvement in education along with a wisdom gained from
- [Endorsement: Joshua Brown](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-joshua-brown/) - (Founding Director, The Invictus Wellbeing Institute) John Hendry is one of the most important voices in education. His message of forgiveness leading to peak performance and the creation of a culture of care, is essential in our times. John speaks with authority and conviction, grounded in his lifetime of experience and scholarly reading. In my
- [Endorsement: Dr Kerry Howells](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-kerry-howells/) - (Senior Lecturer, College of Arts, Law and Education, University of Tasmania) I have seen audiences come alive in a completely different way in response to the relevance of John’s deep and important work on forgiveness, relationships, and creating a positive school culture. He has an admirable ability to make this relevant, practical and accessible to
- [Endorsement: Yuen Pang](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-yuen-pang/) - (Co-Founder, Guangzhou Happy Seeds Education Centre) During the past two years I have been privileged to have the opportunity to work very closely with John Hendry to bring the best of positive education to parents, teachers and children (“the whole community”) in Hong Kong and China. Keeping things simple is a message that John believes
- [Endorsement: Colette Bos](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-colette-bos/) - (Director for Inclusion, Henley High School) I have worked in partnership with John Hendry over the last few years, in my role as a new Principal at Salisbury North R-7 School and in my current role as Director for Inclusion at Henley High school. John leads with integrity and his approach to Positive Education and
- [Endorsement: Sally Cheah-Johnson](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-sally-cheah-johnson/) - (Assistant Principal, John Monash Science School) Over the last two years John Hendry has supported John Monash Science School in its development of Positive Education. John’s passion, leadership and willingness to provide his time and energy to support us at JMSS are most inspirational and appreciated. One of our Strategic Plan goals is to introduce
- [Endorsement: Nathan Chisholm](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-nathan-chisholm/) - (Principal, Prahran High School) I have had the privilege of being close to John Hendry’s work for many years, as I’ve sought to develop positive, kind and caring cultures in the school communities that I’ve led. His leadership, counsel and wisdom have deeply impacted me and my work, and as a result my students and
- [Endorsement: Scott McCumber](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-scott-mccumber/) - (Principal, Ocean Grove Primary School) Since John Hendry brought Relationship based Education into our school, it has strengthened my conviction that relationships are centrally important in education, for students, parents, teachers and school leadership. RbE has given us all a framework to understand and develop quality relationships, to make our school function better as a
- [Endorsement: Prof. George Vaillant](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-prof-george-vaillant/) - (Professor, Harvard Medical School Director of Research, Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital) John Hendry is one of the most committed, compassionate and caring individuals, I have ever met. I have known John for more than a decade and have worked with him numerous endeavours. While interacting with others, especially students, John displays an
- [Endorsement: Terry Gladstone](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/endorsement-terry-gladstone/) - (Campus Principal, School for Student Leadership – Snowy River Campus) John has visited our school as a guest speaker to talk to our year 9 students. John has an amazing ability to walk into a room as a stranger and in a short time become a friend. He can capture the attention of 45 teenagers
- [National School Reform Agreement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/national-school-reform-agreement/) - What is the National School Reform Agreement? The National School Reform Agreement (NSRA) is a joint agreement between the Commonwealth, States and Territories to lift student outcomes across Australian schools. The NSRA extends over several areas of education policy; a critical and fundamental one is the bilateral agreements between the Federal and State/Territory Governments on
- [Online engagement with Padlet](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/online-engagement-with-padlet/) - We're always looking for innovative ways for schools to engage with their parent communities, especially schools with widely scattered communities such as those in remote areas, where travel to school may be difficult for parents and carers. Virtual School Victoria (VSV) is at the extreme end of 'scattered communities', with students from all over the
- [Victorian Disability Worker Commission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-disability-worker-commission/) - If you’re a parent or carer of a child with disability, you want to feel confident that the disability services they’re receiving, whether at school, home or in the community, are safe and high quality. This is where the role of the Victorian Disability Worker Commission (VDWC) comes in. The VDWC exists to protect and
- [Artificial Intelligence allowed in schools from 2024](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/artificial-intelligence-allowed-in-schools-from-2024/) - This article from the Guardian covers the emerging issue of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools, and reveals that AI will be allowed in schools nationwide from 2024, after state Education Ministers approved the Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Schools. According to the article, On Monday the federal education minister, Jason Clare, told
- [Supporting your child as they start high school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/addressing-student-stress-before-term-1-begins/) - Though the heading of this article in the Educator refers to 'teachers', most of the advice is for parents. The article focuses on the stress that students may feel in the lead-up to starting school, especially if they are starting their first year of secondary school. There is plenty of practical advice for parents, including:
- [School Zoning: PV Position Statement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-zoning-pv-position-statement/) - Here are some excerpts from our Position Statement, published on 15 August 2023: Parents Victoria believes that every Victorian child has the right to attend their neighbourhood school while maintaining the right of appeal to change schools if, after discussion and consultation at the current school, the desired educational outcomes cannot be achieved. Department policy
- [Artificial Intelligence demystified for parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/artificial-intelligence-demystified-for-parents/) - What is Artificial Intelligence? How will it impact the world of education? Our friends at the Western Australian Council of State School Organisations Inc (WACSSO) ran a webinar for parents and education stakeholders in late 2023. The webinar provides an overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning and generative AI (e.g. ChatGPT), examines AI’s growing significance in
- [Artificial Intelligence in schools framework](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/artificial-intelligence-in-schools-framework/) - In late 2023, Federal Education Minister Jason Clare released the Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools. According to the Minister's Media Release, The Framework has been designed to assist school communities to use generative AI in a safe and effective way... In addition to privacy, security and safety, the Framework prioritises teaching and
- [Resilient culture](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/resilient-culture/) - The basis of a resilient culture A resilient culture is an inclusive culture, one that appreciates the fact that people do struggle with challenges and this struggle can limit motivation, engagement and application. The resilient culture recognizes that “self-regard” is directly influenced by “social-regard”, that other people matter. Social-regard is the critical factor in how
- [Protection of School Communities Bill 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/protection-of-school-communities-bill-pv-statement/) - As reported on 8 June, Parents Victoria has concerns about the Education and Training Reform Amendment (Protection of School Communities) Bill 2021, which was passed by the Victorian Parliament on 28 June. PV advocacy PV successfully engaged a number of our Members of Parliament in regard to this Bill and this experience did demonstrate the importance
- [Help for families in financial hardship](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/help-for-families-in-financial-hardship/) - The State Government has a web page with advice for families who are experiencing financial hardship. The Department also has policies and guidance for schools on how they should support families experiencing financial hardship, set out in the Policy and Advisory Library (PAL). The PAL states that schools should have strategies in place to: Support
- [Head Start apprenticeship/traineeship program](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/head-start-apprenticeship-and-traineeship-program/) - The Head Start program helps Victorian school students get into apprenticeships and traineeships. Head Start students spend more time doing important, paid, on-the-job training while completing their VCE or VCAL at school. The program helps students to develop skills and experience that employers value. These videos give an introduction to the program, and we hear
- [PISA: a fair test of education quality?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/pisa-a-fair-test-of-education-quality/) - The OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is often used as an indicator of how well an education system is performing. For example, in March 2021 Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge used PISA results to claim that the Australian education system is in decline. However an article from Save Our Schools (SOS) published in
- [Free career support](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/free-career-support/) - Jobs Victoria offers free support for jobseekers. There are two ways they can help. Work and Learning Centres There are five Work and Learning Centres around Victoria, located in Fitzroy, North Geelong, Morwell, Ballarat and Shepparton. Work and Learning Centres support people looking for work, especially if you live in or are waiting for public
- [40km/h limit: RACV campaign](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/all-schools-need-a-40km-h-limit-racv-campaign/) - Parents Victoria supports the RACV's call for all schools to have 40km/h speed limits on adjacent roads.
- [Protecting children in natural disasters](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/protecting-children-in-natural-disasters/) - In the event of a natural disaster such as flood or bushfire, one of many concerns for parents will be the impact on their children. In the wake of disaster, the right support can help children to recover and strengthen their resilience in the event of a disaster recurring. Linking experts from different disciplines with
- [Pitting us against each other is no way to improve our crumbling school system](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/pitting-us-against-each-other-is-no-way-to-improve-our-crumbling-school-system/) - This article by Adam Voigt (former school principal and CEO of Real Schools) looks at the public/private divide in Australian schools. Adam is critical of the way parents are encouraged to think of education in competitive terms, and focus only on their own children's schooling, rather than what is best for everyone. Adam writes, "It’s
- [Resource disadvantage of public schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/resource-disadvantage-of-public-schools-its-growing/) - Save Our Schools reported in May 2021 on the growing resource disadvantage of public schools, compared to private schools. According to the SOS report: Figures recently published by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) on its National Report on Schooling data portal show that income per student of Catholic and Independent schools is
- [Funding inequity hurts Victorian schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/funding-inequity-hurts-victorian-schools/) - Did you know that Victoria spends $1,354 less per student every year than the other states? This figure has been highlighted by the Australian Education Union in its recent campaign for better conditions for Victorian teachers. Under-funding of schools affects teachers and students alike. This has long been a concern for Parents Victoria, which is
- [Over-funding of private schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/over-funding-of-private-schools/) - This article by Save Our Schools' Trevor Cobbold was published in May 2022, during the federal election campaign. It outlines how private schools have been massively over-funded at the expense of public schools, and how Labor has chosen to continue this over-funding. Labor Chooses Privilege Over Fairness in Education Labor has chosen privilege over fairness
- [For Every Child campaign](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/for-every-child-campaign/) - This campaign is calling for full funding of all public schools. The campaign is led by the Australian Education Union and supported by groups representing parents, principals, youth and a range of other community and social justice groups. Parents Victoria is a supporter of the campaign. From the campaign website: The future funding of every
- [Overfunded private schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/overfunded-private-schools/) - We've reported many times on the resource disparity between public and private schools - underfunded public schools and overfunded private schools. This is not just a problem in Victoria, it's nationwide - an article in the Age today focuses on a group of overfunded private schools in Perth. According to the article, "West Australian private
- [School funding: open letter to PM](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-funding-open-letter-to-the-pm/) - This open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was published on 27 Nov 2023 by the For Every Child campaign. Parents Victoria is one of 52 organisations who have endorsed this letter. Here is the full text of the letter: Every child has the right to learn and to be supported to reach their full
- [Covid Positive Pathways](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/covid-positive-pathways/) - Tested positive for Covid-19? COVID Positive Pathways provides care and support at home for Victorians diagnosed with COVID-19. The program is delivered by Victorian hospitals, community health services (including collaboration with Aboriginal health services), GPs and other providers, and coordinated by the Victorian Department of Health. COVID Positive Pathways makes sure you are cared for
- [COVID-19: reliable information](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/covid-19-reliable-information-for-parents-and-school-students/) - Reliable and up-to-date information for parents and school students: Victorian Government coronavirus website Education Department COVID-19 hotline: 1800 338 663 (Mon-Fri, 8:30am-5pm) Federal Health Department COVID-19 page
- [How to help students with resilience and focus in uncertain times](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/how-to-help-students-with-resilience-and-focus-in-uncertain-times/) - "Times of change and uncertainty unsettle even the most confident students. With very little notice and not much chance to plan, we’re all catapulted into a new world. But with crises, come opportunities..." Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller's latest blog post is a guide to a typical day in the life of a learning-from-home student. From
- [Ask Izzy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/ask-izzy/) - Need a support service? In these uncertain times, many people find they need support unexpectedly. From housing to health to employment and financial support, Ask Izzy is a one-stop shop for all the services and supports you need. It's easy to search and the answers are localised so you can access support easily. Ask Izzy
- [National School Reform Agreement: PV Submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/national-school-reform-agreement-pv-submission/) - Parents Victoria made a submission to the Federal Government's Expert Panel, set up to advise it on the National School Reform Agreement. The submission was in response to the Panel's Consultation Paper. Our submission makes the following points: "...it must be public first with the public purse due to the greater number of students who
- [Engaging families in lifting student outcomes](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/engaging-families-in-lifting-student-outcomes/) - This 10-page booklet from the Education Department is subtitled "A guide for school leaders to support implementation of FISO 2.0" It's intended for school leadership but well worth a read for parents too! (FISO stands for "Framework to Improve Student Outcomes" - this is the continuous improvement framework for all Victorian government schools.) The booklet
- [How to talk to boys about misogyny](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/how-to-talk-to-boys-about-misogyny/) - This article by Sophie King-Hill (published in The Conversation) arises from a 2023 report from the UK House of Commons Women and Equality Committee, suggesting that sexual harassment is rife in English schools - and overwhelmingly it's boys harassing girls. The article says: It is vitally important that we talk about misogyny with boys. The committee’s
- [Get Gonski back on track](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/get-gonski-back-on-track/) - To mark the 10th anniversary of the Gonski Report, Trevor Cobbold of Save Our Schools gave a speech to the Schools Funding Conference in February 2022. This article is a revised version of the speech. Trevor says Gonski was "a watershed in the history of school funding in Australia because it made equity in education
- ['Identity politics is destroying our public schools'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/identity-politics-is-destroying-our-public-schools/) - This article by economist Ross Gittins explores the funding disparity between public and private schools - and the reasons behind it. The article goes into the history of our education system, through decisions made by successive governments that have given us our current 2-tiered system. Ross explores the unfairness of this system, and the problems
- [How school funding fails public schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/how-school-funding-fails-public-schools/) - Public schools will be under-funded by over $6 billion a year between 2023 and 2028, totalling nearly $39 billion over six years, whilst private schools will remain overfunded by nearly $3 billion. That's according to a report by economist Adam Rorris, released in November 2023. The report urges the Commonwealth and State Governments to ensure
- [Creating familycentric schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/creating-familycentric-schools/) - Our friend Dr Debbie Pushor and former graduate students from the University of Saskatchewan have produced School Interrupted, a podcast series on creating familycentric schools. Debbie Pushor and the students discuss the transformative nature of parent engagement in schools. From the podcast introduction: "The school landscape is in need of a gentle revolution - one that
- [Role of schools in shaping a more peaceful world](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-role-of-schools-in-helping-to-shape-a-more-peaceful-world/) - This article in the Educator was published on the United Nations’ International Day of Peace (21 September) 2023. The article focuses on the "unrecognised potential of schools" to promote peace: As the places that help to shape the minds of our future generations, schools have a uniquely powerful role to play in making sure they
- [Video: quality relationships and why they matter](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/video-quality-relationships-and-why-they-matter/) - John Hendry OAM, originator of Relationship based Education, talks about the five elements of a quality relationship, with a focus on one in particular - forgiveness. John also discusses the critical importance of quality relationships in creating resilient learners, dealing with mistakes and building a 'kind culture' in a school. Thanks to Rob Warren for
- [The link between parent and teen mental health](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-critical-link-between-parent-and-teen-mental-health/) - A new report from the Harvard Graduate School of Education finds a strong link between the mental health of parents and the mental health of adolescents. Caring for the Caregivers: The Critical Link Between Parent and Teen Mental Health is the first of three reports investigating potential causes and prevention strategies for teens and young
- [Turning a school around: relationships are 'the most crucial part'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/turning-a-school-around-relationships-are-the-most-crucial-part/) - This article in the Educator tells the story of Kingston State School in Queensland, a school with significant social challenges, that has seen impressive improvements in student outcomes under the leadership of principal Trent Cowley. When asked about the philosophy that underpinned his leadership at Kingston State School, Cowley said relationships always came first. “This
- [Victorian Institute of Teaching](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-institute-of-teaching/) - The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) is an independent statutory authority whose primary function is to regulate members of the teaching profession to ensure quality teaching, and provide for the safety and wellbeing of children. All teachers must be registered with VIT in order to undertake the duties of a teacher in a Victorian school
- [Equity in education and how we achieve it](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/what-is-equity-in-education-and-how-do-we-achieve-it/) - The Australian school system is one of the world's most socially segregated and unequal, leaving too many children behind. That's according to Pasi Sahlberg, Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Melbourne. In this article, he suggests three ways to achieve equity in education that will not only benefit disadvantaged students, but also society
- [Commission for Children and Young People](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/commission-for-children-and-young-people/) - Your child’s safety at school In Victoria, children are protected in organisations not just by the criminal law, but by other laws, including the Reportable Conduct Scheme and the Child Safe Standards. These laws make it more difficult for risks to children's safety to be hidden and left without an appropriate response. They apply not
- [Neurodiversity and learning strengths](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/neurodiversity-and-learning-strengths/) - Resources for parents - Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller has created three useful resources for parents about various aspects of neurodiversity in children. Students with ADHD, Students with anxiety, Students and procrastination
- [School autonomy and social justice](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-autonomy-and-social-justice/) - This paper by Trevor Cobbold challenges the 'conventional wisdom' (and political consensus) that increased autonomy and local decision-making is good for schools and education generally. Trevor draws on extensive research from the School Autonomy Reform and Social Justice research project to show the damaging effects of increased school autonomy on equity and social justice. The
- [School sport and the development of life skills](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-sport-and-the-development-of-life-skills/) - This article by John Hendry OAM extends the philosophy of RbE into the area of school sport. Sport as a reflection of culture Sport has been, and remains, a strong and significant part of the total school curriculum for most schools. It is important for students physically, mentally and socially. Sport in the school curriculum
- [Family engagement tips from Healthy Kids Advisors](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-tips-from-healthy-kids-advisors/) - This article was supplied by the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation, based on experience from its successful Healthy Kids Advisors initiative. The Healthy Kids Advisors initiative prides itself on community involvement. Delivered by the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation and supported by the Victorian Government and Australian Government, this community engagement initiative is active in
- [Parents urged to 'take the lead'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parents-urged-to-take-the-lead/) - This article by Brett Henebery from the Educator makes a strong case for the benefits of active family engagement in children's education. More than 50 years of research confirms students have higher academic outcomes and improved attendance, behaviour, confidence and motivation when their parents are not simply ‘involved in their school’ but are actively “engaged
- [Vaping: details from the Quit campaign](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/vaping-details-from-the-quit-campaign/) - We’re seeing an epidemic in the uptake of e-cigarette use (“vaping”) by children, which is deeply concerning. Vaping is not harmless;
- [Respectful Relationships](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/respectful-relationships/) - The Education Departments's Respectful Relationships program supports schools and early childhood settings to promote and model respect, positive attitudes and behaviours. It teaches our children how to build healthy relationships, resilience and confidence. The focus is on gender equality and prevention of violence. Parents Victoria is represented on the Respectful Relationships advisory group. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt5dA-mo1kk More
- [Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-registration-and-qualifications-authority/) - The VRQA is Victoria's education and training regulator. We are an independent statutory authority that works to assure the quality of education and training in Victoria. This includes the regulation of Victoria’s schools, school boarding premises, home schooling, international secondary student education, vocational education and training (VET), apprenticeships and traineeships. Registration of schools Every school
- [Why parents choose public schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/why-parents-choose-public-schools/) - This article from ABC Everyday focuses on three families in different states, and why they have chosen to send their kids to government schools. The reasons parents give are varied; a priority on children's wellbeing, not just NAPLAN scores; a preference for a small school; having the school as part of the local community; a
- [The case for strong family and community engagement in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-case-for-strong-family-and-community-engagement-in-schools/) - This article from the Harvard Graduate School of Education explains how the Covid-19 pandemic has brought out even more clearly the benefits of strong family and community engagement in schools. About 50 years of research has revealed the striking benefits of schools actively partnering with families to improve their children’s learning. For some educators though, it
- [Video: A kind & resilient school culture](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/video-building-a-kind-resilient-school-culture/) - This video webinar presentation from John Hendry OAM covers some of the central elements of Relationship based Education, based on the key principle that wellbeing is fundamental to learning. John speaks from his long experience as an educator, including his work on creating a positive school culture as Director of Student Welfare at Geelong Grammar
- [The 5 elements of a quality relationship](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/5-elements-quality-relationship/) - The five basic elements of a quality relationship are trust, forgiveness, integrity, hope and compassion. Each of these are important individually, but in concert they substantiate the relationship. Each is established upon giving, for without giving, none authentically function. Giving underpins all relationships. To give adds meaning. How does giving reside in each? Trust: Trust
- [5 ways to improve classroom management](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/5-ways-to-improve-classroom-management/) - The ideas and suggestions in this article from the Educator are closely aligned to the principles of Relationship based Education (RbE). The article examines some of the biggest learning curves associated with the behavioural management of students, and how teachers can navigate them. The first tip is, "Strengthen relationships; building healthy student-teacher relationships is essential
- [John Hendry: article in The Educator](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/article-about-john-hendry-in-the-educator/) - This article on The Educator website reviews John Hendry’s ongoing contribution to the discussion about relationships, school culture and the link between learning and wellbeing.
- [Should we opt out of the 'phone revolution'?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/should-we-opt-out-of-the-teenage-smartphone-revolution/) - This opinion article from teacher and parent Jacqui Wan was published in the Age and Sydney Morning Herald in May 2023. We think it will be very thought-provoking for parents. Calling all parents: Let’s opt out of the teenage smartphone revolution As a teacher, I have seen the classroom transform in the past decade. Before
- ["Kindness, not harsher discipline"](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/kindness-not-harsher-discipline/) - This article, written by secondary teacher Kate Hadley and published in the Age in April 2023, makes a strong case for a focus on relationships in education, and for a restorative approach when relationships are damaged. This quote is particularly relevant: These days, I am fortunate to work in a co-educational school that values relationships
- [Social media for family engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/social-media-for-family-engagement/) - Increasingly, schools are using social media platforms as a way of engaging with families - posting photos of classroom activities, camps and special events that give parents a 'window' into what their children are doing - and learning - at school. It's terrific to see schools promoting their Parent Clubs on these social media posts
- [School refusal - PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-refusal-pv-submission/) - Parents Victoria has made a submission to an inquiry on 'school refusal', held by the Senate Standing Committee on Education and Employment in 2022/23. Our submission covers: The importance of recognising the central role of relationships in education The need for schools and parents to work together to address problems, rather than trying to assign
- [Out-of-home care situations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/out-of-home-care-situations/) - Families with children in out-of-home care provide extra challenges for effective engagement. Out-of-home care may include foster care, relative/kin care or residential/group home care. Few studies have measured the effects of different strategies for engaging with families of children in out-of-home care to support learning. This resource from the Australian Education Research Organisation offers advice
- [Cultural relevance](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/cultural-relevance/) - Knowing their families and their cultural beliefs around education will assist schools to engage those families in a more culturally responsive way and give all families a sense of belonging. Situate cultural strengths of family and community within the school curriculum, once identified. Centre for Multicultural Youth resource This CMY resource, Opening the School Gate: Engaging
- [Families get cooking at Glenroy College](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/families-get-cooking-at-glenroy-college/) - Glenroy College is running after-school cooking classes for families. The popular cooking workshops are held in the College’s food technology kitchen on Mondays after school. In the first few sessions, families learnt to make rice paper rolls and a delicious and easy pasta sauce, all under the expert tuition of cooking whizzes from Foodbank Victoria. The program
- [VCE study scores explained](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/vce-study-scores-explained/) - If you have a VCE student in the family, you may be wondering how the statewide assessment and ranking process works. How can a fair and equitable statewide ranking be achieved when schools can develop and assess their own assessment tasks? The process is called statistical moderation, and it's administered by the Victorian Curriculum and
- [Financial help for families](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/financial-help-for-families/) - We know that some families are struggling to meet the costs of their children's education. The Education Department has a useful list of support services available to help with schooling costs on its website. The list covers: Help with camps, sport and excursions costs from a special fund Help with schooling costs from State Schools
- [Disability Inclusion in Victorian schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/disability-inclusion-in-victorian-schools/) - Disability Inclusion is a new approach to supporting students with disability at Victorian government schools, introduced in 2021. In that year, Disability Inclusion was made available to schools in the Bayside Peninsula, Barwon and Loddon Campaspe areas and five Supported Inclusion Schools. As from 2022, Disability Inclusion is also available at schools in the following
- [What is wellbeing?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/what-is-wellbeing/) - What does "wellbeing" mean, especially in reference to children and young people? The Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) has produced What's in the Nest? to answer this question. ARACY introduces the booklet with this: The Nest is Australia’s wellbeing framework for children and young people aged 0 to 24 years. It’s a
- [Family-School Partnerships Framework](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-school-partnerships-framework/) - The Family-School Partnerships Framework document contains: • A vision for improved partnerships between Australian families and schools • A set of principles to guide families and schools in developing partnerships • Seven key dimensions of effective family-school partnerships • A set of strategies providing practical guidance to school communities and school systems in implementing and
- [Why parents and carers matter: podcast](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/why-parents-and-carers-matter-podcast/) - This podcast from the Public Education Foundation focuses on partnerships between schools and families. How do we improve and strengthen these partnerships? The podcast aims to identify some of the barriers to family engagement, such as cultural and linguistic diversity or socio-economic backgrounds, and present some ways to overcome these challenges for the benefit of
- [Relationships podcast with John Hendry and Andrew Fuller](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/relationships-podcast-with-john-hendry-and-andrew-fuller/) - John Hendry OAM, the originator of Relationship based Education, talks about the central role of relationships in human wellbeing. He answers questions such as: What is a positive relationship, how do you go about forming it, and how do you nurture it? How do you deal with the changing nature of a relationship, and with
- [Video lecture: principles of RbE](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/video-lecture-principles-of-rbe/) - This conversation was originally recorded in 2022 as part of a Monash University Faculty of Education Master's level unit: "Promoting and sustaining social and emotional learning in educational contexts." It was made for trainee teachers but also serves as an engaging introduction to Relationship based Education for the general public. In the video we hear
- [COVID resources from ReachOut](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/covid-resources-from-reachout/) - ReachOut is an online mental health organisation for young people and their parents. They have developed a range of support resources to help teenagers, parents and schools through the coronavirus pandemic. The resources range from explainers and tips on common problems, through to online forums and structured 'online classroom' activities. Go to the ReachOut home page
- [Covid resources from the ABC](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/helpful-resources-from-the-abc/) - ABC Online has created some very useful resources for parents struggling to deal with COVID-19 and its impact on their children - and themselves. Maggie Dent Well-known parenting educator and author Maggie Dent presents these resources: Facebook Video: Talking to kids about coronavirus Podcast: How to talk to kids about coronavirus and guide your family
- [Keeping safe in cyberspace](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/keeping-safe-in-cyberspace/) - Susan McLean from CyberSafety Solutions has produced a series of free videos on how to stay safe in the online environment. Transcripts are also available. The presentations include: Internet facts vs fiction Duty of care (for educators) Cyberbullying Screen time Sexting Laws and legislation Risk and Reality (Facebook Live event) Some videos are intended to
- [School levies](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-levies/) - Victoria was one of the first states in the world to introduce free education for children. The Education Act of 1872 provided that education should be "free, compulsory and secular." The Education Departments Policy and Advisory Library (PAL) states that: Victorian government schools must provide students with free instruction and ensure students have free access
- [School Community Safety Orders](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-community-safety-orders/) - In July 2022 the State Government introduced School Community Safety Orders (SCSOs) into Victorian schools. The Orders give Principals the power to ban parents, carers and other adults from school grounds or activities if they “behave in harmful, threatening, or abusive ways”. The Orders can also ban parents from posting messages on school social media
- [Australian Curriculum Review: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/australian-curriculum-review-acara-pv-submission/) - In 2021 PV made a submission to the Review of the Australian Curriculum, conducted by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA). In our submission, we said that,"...a quality 21st century curriculum needs to focus on an inclusive, equitable, relatable education. Students need to see themselves reflected in the curriculum, and to see the
- [Autism and ADHD: free short courses for parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/autism-and-adhd-free-short-courses-for-parents/) - YarraMe School is offering free online courses on autism and ADHD for parents. Autism for Parents The course is aimed at parents and carers of children with autism. However, the content (including lots of videos of parents talking about the issues that concern them most), provides fantastic insight for anyone who supports a child with
- [Parent Payments: results of 2020 survey](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-payments-results-of-2020-survey/) - In February 2020 we surveyed parents about their school's Parent Payment systems, and also how schools are managing the provision of personal digital devices. We received 93 responses; here's what they said. Parent Payments - when and what for Almost 80% of parents said their school makes it clear what they are being charged for
- [Reporting concerns about teacher conduct](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/conduct-reporting-guide/) - Have you ever been in a situation where you felt you should report a concern about the conduct of a registered teacher or early childhood teacher, or about how the education setting may have handled the conduct? Did you know what to do? The Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) has published a Conduct Reporting Guide
- [Going to private school won’t make a difference to your kid’s academic scores](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/going-to-private-school-wont-make-a-difference-to-your-kids-academic-scores/) - According to an article in The Conversation in early 2022, "A recent study showed NAPLAN scores of children who attended private schools were no different to those in public schools, after accounting for socioeconomic background." The article systematically analyses claims of the superiority of private school education, in Australia and internationally, and concludes that "once
- [Books for children](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/books-for-children/) - ...and let's not forget the kids themselves! What is 'mindfulness'? How does kindness make us strong? What is the 'golden rule'?
- [Home Visits: US program now in Canada](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/home-visits/) - Canadian family engagement expert Dr Debbie Pushor (University of Saskatchewan) is trialling a program of Parent Teacher Home Visits in Canada, modelled on a successful program that has been running in the USA since 1998. Home visits are a high-impact strategy for family engagement. A study by Johns Hopkins University in 2019 found that schools that systematically
- [Tapping into parent knowledge](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/tapping-into-parent-knowledge/) - Dr Debbie Pushor (University of Saskatchewan, Canada) talks about the great value that teachers can get from tapping into parents' knowledge. https://youtu.be/XX6jdKdWT0w
- [Student Wellbeing Hub](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/student-wellbeing-hub/) - This Federal Government website has resources for parents on important topics related to their school-age children's wellbeing, such as: Bullying, aggression and violence Online safety Supporting your child to make responsible decisions Diversity and inclusion Go to Student Wellbeing Hub
- [Alternative pathways for senior students](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/alternative-pathways-for-senior-students/) - While some people see the VCE certificate as the 'only game in town' for senior school students, it's not for everyone and there are alternative pathways to tertiary courses and employment. These videos from Frankston Mornington Peninsula Local Learning and Employment Network cover the main alternative learning options for senior students, both school-based and in
- [Simple things for parents to do](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/simple-things-for-parents-to-do/) - Finding the positive Find, as parents and as students, three good things about the day and individually write them down and briefly explain what was good about them. Then share them with each other. This is the 'what went well' exercise. This is a scientifically proven uplifter of mood and prepares a positive path to
- [Restorative practices](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/restorative-practices-2/) - Restorative practices & relationship-based education Download this article as a PDF There tend to be two understandings of a “restorative approach” and/or “restorative programs” in schools: one is simple, perhaps simplistic, the other is more complex. The simpler version The simpler version of restorative practices in schools arose from programs developed since the mid-1990s in
- [Inequity in education: research report](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/inequity-in-education-research-report/) - A research report published by the University of Melbourne Graduate School of Education shows a strong link between socio-economic advantage and high student achievement. The paper, by Dr Jenny Chesters and Prof. Anne Daly, is titled Family and school effects on educational achievement across the school career. It examines the associations between family socio-economic status
- [PAEC Inquiry - Managing School Infrastructure: PV Submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/paec-inquiry-managing-school-infrastructure-pv-submission/) - The Victorian Parliament's Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) held an enquiry into managing school infrastructure in 2020. The PV submission focused on planning for the future, the maintenance backlog in school buildings, appropriate building design and inequities between the public and private school systems. Download the PV submission
- [Family engagement is so important!](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-is-so-important-2/) - Dr Debbie Pushor (University of Saskatchewan, Canada) sums up 50 years of research that demonstrates the importance of engaging families in their children's education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ6FK6bLVss
- [The Relationship Quotient](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-relationship-quotient/) - Whether it is a friendship, a team, a family, a school, a business, a romance or the relationship between a teacher and her students, there are values that underpin successful quality relationships. This series of papers by educator John Hendry, clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller and education consultant Neil Hawkes, discusses how people can develop a
- [Inequality and education outcomes](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/inequality-and-education-outcomes/) - “When colleagues overseas ask what I think about Australia’s school system, I tell them that it does offer world-class education, but not for everyone.” That’s the opening sentence of a recent article in the Guardian by Finnish education expert Pasi Sahlberg, who now lives in Australia. The article focuses on the divide between the public
- [The Parent-School relationship](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-parent-school-relationship/) - "There are a lot of pieces that make up our school system...but there’s one piece missing: The Parent-School relationship. Your Government can put it in place." Following our 2018 Conference and Dr Debbie Pushor's visit to Australia, Parents Victoria produced this document for the Victorian Government, Opposition and Education Department. It sets out a range of
- [RbE - an introduction booklet](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/rbe-the-book/) - At the PV2019 Annual Conference we launched a collection of articles, published in an introduction booklet to RbE. The articles set out some of the basic principles of Relationship based Education. Article titles are: How giving underpins all relationships; to give adds meaning A kind culture is a resilient culture Behaviour and the process to
- ["Let's Work Together" resource booklet](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/lets-work-together/) - "An engaged school community is the best marketing tool any school can have." This 20-page booklet is a collaboration between Parents Victoria and the Australian Principals Federation (APF). It was launched by Professor Bill Lucas, Director of the Centre for Real-World Learning and Professor of Learning at the University of Winchester and International Adviser, Mitchell
- [Parents as first educators](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parents-as-first-educators/) - This is a summary of a workshop held as part of the PV/DET Parent Forum in August 2019. The workshop focused on the importance of parent/school partnerships in developing children's literacy and numeracy. Speaker - Sharyn Donald, Assistant Deputy Secretary, School Education Programs & Support Discussion summary Parents require support on how best to engage
- [Alumni programs in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/alumni-programs-in-schools/) - What is an alumni program? "Alumni" simply means former students of your school. Alumni programs, where schools keep up a connection with alumni and invite them back to the school to connect with current students, have many benefits for the school, students and community. The benefits Stronger connection between school and community Inspire current students
- [School Bus inquiry: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-bus-inquiry-pv-submission/) - In 2021 the Victorian Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee held an Inquiry into the Use of School Buses in Rural and Regional Victoria. Primarily this inquiry considered how the use of school buses could be extended to the wider public to enhance the mobility of regional and rural Victorians. PV supported this extension of
- [Authentic and meaningful parent engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/authentic-and-meaningful-parent-engagement/) - Parent Engagement is much more than helping out with the school excursion or sausage-sizzle. Dr Debbie Pushor from the University of Saskatchewan gives a wide-ranging talk on Parent Engagement. She focuses on the research that clearly shows the value of giving parents an authentic and meaningful place and voice in their children's education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_LWpzfmT2Vg
- [Systematic family engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/systematic-family-engagement/) - Why a systematic approach is needed Dr Debbie Pushor on why family engagement needs to be co-ordinated and systematic, rather than random and disconnected. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COei2yYX8F4 How it works in practice The story of how a disadvantaged school embarked on a long-term strategy to get families engaged in their children's schooling, and saw big improvements in
- [Linking family engagement to learning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/linking-family-engagement-to-learning-2/) - Karen Mapp, Senior Lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, sets out the evidence; strong family engagement leads to better learning outcomes for students. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDPY1t8E6Cg
- [Why family engagement is important](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/why-family-engagement-is-important/) - This video, made by the Family School Partnership Bureau in 2015, emphasises the importance of joining family knowledge with teacher expertise to create a better learning environment for children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9soG1VEmTsw
- [For school leaders](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/for-school-leaders/) - Dr Debbie Pushor (University of Saskatchewan, Canada) speaks to school leaders about why family engagement can make their schools better for everyone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28gzv8byEVI
- [How to help your kids succeed in school without piling on the pressure](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/how-to-help-your-kids-succeed-in-school-without-piling-on-the-pressure/) - In this article on the ABC website, parenting expert Justin Coulson summarises extensive academic research on the key factors for success at school.
- [The value of parent knowledge](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/the-value-of-parent-knowledge/) - In this podcast published by the Bastow Institute of Educational Leadership, Dr Debbie Pushor from the University of Saskatchewan talks with Angela Scaffidi about the barriers to genuine engagement between schools and parents, and the immense educational value of recognising and valuing parents' knowledge. Listen now
- [NAPLAN Review 2020: PV/VicSRC joint submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/naplan-review-2020-pv-vicsrc-joint-submission/) - PV and the Victorian Student Representative Council (VicSRC) made a joint submission to the 2020 NAPLAN Review. The submission focused on mental health issues, the use of NAPLAN data for 'league tables' of schools, 'teaching to the test' and politicisation of testing. Download the submission
- [Skills for Victoria's Growing Economy: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/skills-for-victorias-growing-economy-pv-submission/) - In 2020, the Victorian Government held a review into Victoria's vocational education system, titled Skills for Victoria's Growing Economy (known as the Macklin Review). Our submission covered a range of topics, based on feedback we received from parents, including allowances and benefits, transition information for parents, accessible course information for students and support for disengaged
- [Victorian Government’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: PV submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/victorian-governments-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic-pv-submission/) - PV made a submission to the Victorian Public Accounts and Estimates Committee enquiry into the Victorian Government’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Our submission emphasised good communication with families and passed on positive and negative comments from parents. Download the submission
- [Community Conferencing / 'Circle Time'](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/community-conferencing-circle-time/) - Community Conferencing is a process in which a group of people meet to address a common concern. The process is most often used with a group of people affected by interpersonal conflict. Participants in a Community Conference reach a shared understanding about the causes and consequences of the conflict. They then devise a plan of
- [Parents Victoria](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parents-victoria/) - Parents Victoria is a statewide democratic organisation representing parents of students in Victorian government schools. Parents Victoria strongly supports John’s work in Relationship Based Education. We believe the family-school partnership is an incredibly powerful relationship that can help students achieve some amazing results, not just academically but also socially. The benefits to the school are
- [Anti-bulling policy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/anti-bulling-policy/) - This anti-bullying policy was one of the outcomes of a Relationship Based Education program at Salisbury North Primary School in SA. (Read more about the program at Salisbury North.) The policy was "designed by the students, for the students", and was distributed to all new families in their Enrolment Pack. It uses the acronym STAND:
- [Career planning and pathways: outcomes of Parent Forum](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/career-planning-and-pathways-outcomes-of-parent-forum/) - This is a summary of a workshop held as part of the PV/DET Parent Forum in August 2019. Speaker - Leela Darvall, Manager, Careers and Pathways Unit Discussion Summary The workplace landscape is changing and parents feel schools need to educate students at a much earlier age on career pathways. Improving job readiness and building
- [6 Ways to De-Escalate a Heated Argument](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/6-ways-to-de-escalate-a-heated-argument/) - Sometimes conversations can get out of hand—emotions run high, hurtful words are used, past mistakes brought up. However, it's never too late to turn a conflict around. This article from Psychology Today provides six tips for taking the heat out of a conflict situation. Read the article
- [Beyond punitive discipline](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/beyond-punitive-discipline/) - Punitive discipline or relationship management Schools are complex organisations. Their primary task is to provide an environment where students can learn. School authorities are legally and morally (and pragmatically) responsible for maintaining an appropriate degree of order in the learning environment. Order requires appropriate degrees of individual and collective control. "Behaviour management" is the term
- [3 Ways for Schools to Cultivate Kindness](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/3-ways-for-schools-to-help-students-cultivate-kindness/) - This article by Vicki Zakrzewski, from The Blue Dot (published by UNESCO), outlines practical and positive actions for schools to model and encourage kindness and helpfulness. “Sometimes... the most powerful learning happens when students are encouraged to discover something for themselves—especially when what they’re “learning” is already a natural part of who they are as
- [7 ways for teachers to connect with parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/7-ways-for-teachers-to-truly-connect-with-parents/) - This article from the US Education Week website provides research evidence that relationship-focused communication between families and schools can mitigate some of the frustrations of pandemic-induced educational disruptions. We think the benefits are just as strong even in non-pandemic times! Among the 7 ways are “Show caring”, “Build community” and ‘Make communication family-centred”. Read the
- [Dealing with difference and conflict in schools](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/dealing-with-difference-and-conflict-in-schools/) - These panel discussions, representing the views of educators, parents and students, were held at our Annual Conference in 2019. They attempt to answer the question: How do we kindly and constructively deal with difference and conflict in schools? The discussions focus on two conflict scenarios and how to deal with them. Scenario 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7leb0JJixCM Scenario 2
- [CPR for relationships](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/cpr-for-relationships/) - Everyone must feel safe at all times, so keep in mind the CPR rule for all your interactions: Connect Protect Respect Bring them together Once this is done the parties can be constructively brought together to “compare notes” and to begin to genuinely to repair the relationship and regain their equilibrium. It’s critical that everyone
- [Restorative practices](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/restorative-practices/) - Repairing the relationship Restorative practices need to be fashioned carefully to focus on the relationship dislocation and the obligations one has within relationships to repair damage or dislocation. Where there has been an incident of harm or conflict, you will want to ask questions to find out exactly what happened. How you do it is
- [Co-operation and other-centred behaviour](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/stand-up-do-not-stand-by/) - Self-centred / other-centred behaviour How we behave is determined by a complex set of forces found within ourselves and the living moments we experience. Each situation possesses forces that influence our behaviour. The context in which we find ourselves is critical and the situation influences can overwhelm our own behaviour endeavours in given contexts. The
- [Dignity and contribution](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/dignity-and-contribution/) - This article, by Dr Donna Hicks from the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University, sets out the Ten Essential Elements of Digity, and conversely the Ten Elements to Violate Dignity. “Dignity not only sustains but also energises and enables. It accomplishes great things. It lifts the fallen and restores the broken. When the
- [Positive learners mindset](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/positive-learners-mindset/) - "A Positive Learner’s Mindset requires a positive, trusting relationship between teacher and student. This is the art of great teaching: to reframe tasks, create support that overrides fear, develop a sense of success, encourage the mastery of tasks. The presence of a Positive Learners Mindset increases engagement in learning, motivation and academic success. It relates
- [Retribution or reparation](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/retribution-or-reparation/) - "First do no harm." (Hippocratic oath). No one has a licence to harm another. Retribution and harm Behaviour that is harming another is also harming the person so behaving. It is essential to arrest that behaviour in the first place and then begin an educational process to change this harming behaviour. This process cannot begin
- [School uniform](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/school-uniform/) - Parents Victoria believes a student's attendance at school is the highest priority (as agreed by the government) and so uniform should never be an inhibitor or barrier. With the ever increasing costs of schooling to families (school fees, transport, books, technology, excursions, subject costs, etc) there is no need for schools to add to this
- [Empowering parents to be their child's first educators](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/empowering-parents-to-be-their-childs-first-educators/) - In this webinar, Dominique Smith presents her approach to helping young children get a better education starting at home by working in, with, and through culture, community, and families. Dominique works in the highly-challenging environment of a WA community dealing with alcohol problems, very high rates of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, isolation, poverty, and social
- [Family Engagement and Teacher Practice](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-and-teacher-practice/) - This webinar gives details of a teacher in-service program that was run in a cluster of schools in Greater Dandenong (Melbourne). Family Engagement Leader Sue Brown says that conventional teacher training does little to prepare teachers for family partnerships, so the cluster of schools decided to run an in-service program for teachers. The program built
- [How parents could revolutionize education and boost results](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/how-parents-could-revolutionize-education-and-boost-results/) - This article from The Conversation looks at the evidence for value of Family Engagement and gives some practical case-studies to show how it works. Read the article
- [Parent perspectives](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-perspectives/) - In 2017 Parents Victoria and DET facilitated “Community Conversation” sessions at several government schools in Victoria. These sessions were attended by family members of the host school and surrounding schools. Key themes that emerged were: Families are keen for schools to provide opportunity or invitation for families to engage. They said “schools have to keep
- [Collaborating on mental health issues](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/collaborating-on-mental-health-issues/) - This is a summary of a workshop held as part of the PV/DET Parent Forum in August 2019. The workshop covered many issues related to mental health, including the vital role of parent/school partnerships in addresssing mental health issues. Speaker - Todd MacBeth, Director, Inclusive Education Professional Practice Discussion summary Parents requested a more collaborative
- [For teacher educators](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/for-teacher-educators/) - This series of videos was made specifically for teacher educators. Dr Debbie Pushor from the University of Seskatchewan speaks to teacher educators at Monash University, drawing on her decades of experience as a teacher, consultant, principal, senior administrator, researcher, teacher educator and parent. Part 1: Examining assumptions Examining teachers' assumptions about parents and schooling, and how
- [Celebrate the contribution of families](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/celebrate-the-engagement-and-contribution-of-families/) - Families appreciate being valued and acknowledged and this builds pride and confidence in our students and our schools. It’s important to celebrate the success of everyone’s efforts. A little gesture goes a long way!
- [Debbie Pushor: family engagement advocate](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/debbie-pushor-family-engagement-advocate/) - Parents Victoria has had a long association with Canadian academic Dr Debbie Pushor. Debbie has worked as a public school teacher, consultant, principal, senior administrator, and now as a researcher and teacher educator. She is currently a Professor in the Department of Curriculum Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. Debbie has also experienced the education
- [Shedding light on engaging families](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/shedding-light-on-engaging-families/) - This 2-page flyer is a brief introduction to the key concepts of family engagement. It's a useful conversation starter as it succinctly addresses three questions: Why family engagement? How? What does it look like? This flyer was produced in association with Dr Debbie Pushor's presentation at our 2018 Conference. Download the flyer
- [Family engagement podcast](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/family-engagement-podcast/) - This podcast from the Raising Children website focuses on "being active in your school community". The guest is PV Executive Officer Gail McHardy. Gail talks through the issues with host Prof. Julie Green: the benefits of strong family engagement in their children's education, good communication between schools and their communities, different ways families can engage
- [Cost of schooling: Outcomes of Parent Forum](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/parent-forum-cost-of-schooling/) - This is a summary of a workshop held as part of the PV/DET Parent Forum in August 2019. Speaker: Claire Tobin, Principal Health Advisor, Wellbeing, Health and Engagement Division Workshop summary Family hardship is a sensitive matter and the overarching theme of discussion was geared towards improving school processes that ensure schools preserve the dignity
- [Test Issues](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues/test-issues/)

## Tool Kit

- [Committee handover](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/handover/) - If a member of your club committee is leaving their role, make sure that you don't also lose vital information. This may also apply to someone who isn't formally on the committee, but has an important role within the Parent Club, e.g. the school fete co-ordinator. This can happen any time, but will be particularly
- [Annual General Meeting](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/annual-general-meeting/) - Advance planning You will need extra time to prepare for the AGM because: A Treasurer's Report for the year must be presented, in co-operation with the school Business Manager An election for all committee positions will be held. If some committee people are not continuing, you will want to line up replacements in advance, for
- [Annual Calendar](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/annual-calendar/) - Annual Calendar Creating an annual calendar for your club’s activities will help you to plan ahead. You can refer to it at each meeting so that you can plan ahead, rather than organising events at the last minute. You’ll probably want to create the calendar in Term 4 for the following year, to make sure
- [Keeping in touch with members](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/keeping-in-touch-with-members/) - Here are some methods you can use to keep in touch with your members. Email groups Email groups such as Google Groups can be useful. You can simply use them to send out notices and meeting minutes, or allow all members to send to the group, so they can be used as a discussion forum.
- [Mentone Girls SC - 70th birthday celebrations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/mentone-girls-sc-70th-birthday-celebrations/) - To mark Mentone Girls’ Secondary College’s (MGSC) 70 years, over a thousand former students and staff came together for a grand celebration on Sunday 26 October. This was the culmination of 12 months of planning and preparations, with the Parents and Friends’ Association actively involved in its success. The school initiated a major project to
- [Planting Day at Brunswick SC](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/planting-day-at-brunswick-sc/) - This report comes to us from the Brunswick Secondary College Parents' Association (BSCPA). We congratulate to the Parents' Association for organising this great event in September 2025, that will continue to benefit the school community for many years to come. The recent Planting Day at Brunswick Secondary College was a vibrant success, bringing together over
- [Know your school community](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/know-your-school-community/) - Every community – and every school – has different demographics, different strengths and different needs. What are the needs in your school community? How will you find out? Here are a few suggestions: Run a survey. There are free online tools such as Survey Monkey, Jotform and Google Forms (Note that Survey Monkey free accounts are
- [The school website](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/the-school-website/) - The school website is (or should be!) a one-stop-shop for information about the school. It will be used by parents and carers to download documents, find up-to-date and reliable information, find links to social media and much more. The school website will also be used by parents who are looking for a school. They'll want
- [Promoting the Parents' Club at Chatham Primary](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/promoting-the-parents-club-at-chatham-primary/) - The Parents' Club at Chatham Primary School is clearly doing a great job of running its program of events throughout the year, involving lots of parents and maintaining a well-organised committee structure. How do we know? It's all on their page of the school website! Parents - and anyone else - can see at a glance
- [Why have a formal Constitution?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/why-have-a-formal-constitution/) - Sometimes parents will create informal groups to run social events and fundraising, without having a formally registered Constitution. These groups are not recognised by the Department of Education (DE). Some Parent Clubs have not updated their Constitution to the new version published in 2019. To be recognised as a Parent Club by the Department of
- [EFTPOS for Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/eftpos-for-parent-clubs/) - The ability to accept credit or debit card payments has become essential for fundraising activities, as many people no longer carry cash. This may involve the use of mobile EFTPOS facilities for events such as fetes, where payment is taken on the spot. It is not permitted for parent volunteers to use their own EFTPOS
- [The Parent Club as a forum](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/the-parent-club-as-a-forum/) - The Parent Club provides a forum for all parents to discuss issues, exchange and share information and concerns. Parents support one another through pooling of knowledge. A Parent Club plays a constructive role within the school community by sharing ideas that can be brainstormed and refined. The club can suggest solutions to learning and wellbeing
- [Struggling to attract volunteers?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/struggling-to-attract-volunteers/) - If you’re struggling to attract enough volunteers to run your Parent Club committee and keep a program of events going, you're definitely not alone. In Victoria and across Australia, volunteer numbers have reduced - especially with COVID impact disrupting parents, carers and volunteers being able to come onsite to schools. People have had to rethink
- [Inclusive Parent Club activities](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/inclusive-parent-club-activities/) - To maximise your membership and the effectiveness of your Parent Club, you’ll want to make your activities as inclusive as possible - that is, everyone feels welcome and included in club events or activities. Parent Clubs work best when they involve the whole school community! It doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming - just
- [Resources from ACT P&Cs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/resources-from-act-pcs/) - We'd like to thank our friends at the ACT Council of Parents and Citizens (ACT P&Cs) for providing an excellent suite of resources for Parent Clubs, (Parent Clubs are generally called "Parents and Citizens" or "P&Cs" in the ACT). The resources include: Top 10 tips for more volunteers - Handy 1-page guide Attract volunteers Clear
- [Sustainability at Albion Primary](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/sustainability-at-albion-primary/) - Albion Primary School was awarded a 5-star sustainability rating by ResourceSmart Schools in August 2024, after a 5-year effort by staff, parents and students. The school's sustainability initiatives extend into the areas of biodiversity, energy, waste and water. One of many successful activities is the Recycle Shop, which takes place in the school's Multi-purpose Room
- [What Parent Clubs do](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/what-parent-clubs-do/) - The Parent Club’s exact role varies from school to school, however it must always be consistent with Education Regulations and Education Department procedures. Each club should have its own Ministerially approved constitution which describes its role and membership. Clubs often focus on three different areas: Educational issues Fundraising Social activities. All aspects are valid within
- [Parents' community sporting matches](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/parents-community-sporting-matches/) - Down Brighton way, in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs, there's a traditional annual dads' football match between the Lions (Brighton Primary School) and the Dreamers (Brighton Beach Primary School). In 2024, the mums joined in the fun with a netball match between the two schools. Held in August, the matches were organised by the Parent Clubs at
- [Informal parent gatherings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/11636-2/) - Not everyone likes meetings. Many people already have more than enough meetings at work, and just the word "meeting" can be enough to turn some people off! Many Parent Clubs run informal gatherings of parents, simply to make social connections and exchange ideas and experiences in a more casual way, which can be much more
- [Wembley Primary School WPA](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/wembley-primary-school-wpa/) - In 2022 we noted the success of a new Parent Club at Wembley Primary School in Melbourne's western suburbs. We asked them to tell us the story of "how and why" their club was formed, and here's what they gave us: There is strong consensus and research behind the idea that a positive relationship between
- [Great Parent Club communications](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/great-parent-club-communications/) - We've been looking at a lot of school websites, and we noticed the Parents and Friends Association at Kennington Primary School in Bendigo. This club really has a way of making parents feel welcome and included. As an example, in the first school newsletter of 2023, the club had a colourful full-page promotion for their
- [Marlborough PS Parents Association](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/marlborough-ps-parents-association/) - We noticed the above photo in a newsletter from Marlborough Primary School in Heathmont. It's from their Colour Fun Run, organised by the Parents Association. The caption reads, "How awesome was the Colour Fun Run! It was amazing to see the whole school community get involved and the smiling faces of all the students, parents
- [Keeping parents informed via social media](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/keeping-parents-informed-via-social-media/) - We've noticed that some Parent Clubs are doing a great job of using their social media pages to inform and support their school communities. Here are a few examples: St Arnaud Primary Not just fundraisers; this club has used its Facebook to introduce its new Committee and tell parents about a 'structural literacy' information session
- [Events for all at Oakleigh South Primary](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/events-for-all-at-oakleigh-south-primary/) - Many Parent Clubs run Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day events. The Parent Group at Oakleigh South Primary School ran one recently, with a small but significant difference - it was promoted as a Mother’s Day & Special Person Day stall. The Parent Group has recognised that not all families are the same, and re-branded its stall to
- [Guest speakers at meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/guest-speakers-at-meetings/) - The Parents and Friends Association at Williamstown High School has a great way of making their meetings more interesting and bringing useful information and inspiration to their school community - they regularly invite guest speakers to the meetings. Among others, this year they've had (or are planning): Student leaders speaking about their experiences and what
- [Parent Clubs and School Councils](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/parent-clubs-and-school-councils/) - Parent Clubs and School Councils should always work together, but they are quite different in their role and functions. If you find that parents at your school aren't clear on what each group does, here's a quick guide: School Council The School Council is the committee of management for the school. It includes the Principal,
- [Why Parent Clubs?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/why-parent-clubs/) - At times parent clubs act as a lens, focusing attention on parent opinion.
- [Education Department and beyond](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/education-department-and-beyond/) - On this page we have listed various resources on the Education Department website and other organisations that may be useful. For Parent Club matters If you need to contact the Education Department on a Parent Club matter, direct your enquiry to the School Operations and Governance Unit via email: community.stakeholders@education.vic.gov.au. If you prefer to speak
- [Making decisions](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/decision-making/) - All decisions made by a Club must be the decision of a majority of members present at a General Meeting. Office-bearers or a Committee do not have executive power to make decisions outside this process. However, a majority vote of financial members at a General Meeting may give permission for individuals or sub-committees to take
- [Online resources for your Parent Club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/online-resources-for-your-parent-club/) - There’s always lots to do in a Parent Club – planning and running events and meetings, keeping lists of volunteers, promoting your activities and communicating with members. You may also do some or all of these things at work, assisted by technology such as collaboration tools, shared documents and calendars, graphic design software and databases.
- [Publicity within the school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/publicity-within-the-school/) - Whatever activities your club undertakes, one of your most important tasks will be to keep the school community informed. Of course you'll want to promote events you're running, such as social events and fundraisers, but it's also important to promote the everyday things - meetings, AGMs, ongoing programs such as classroom helpers or class reps,
- [Publicity overview](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/publicity-overview/) - As a Parent Club you will often need to get publicity for the campaigns or events you run. It may be to publicise the good things that are happening in the school or to lobby for improvements. It might be very simple things such as letting people know about the annual fete or other special
- [Finance and fundraising regulations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/finance-and-fundraising-regulations/) - Part 4, Divisions 7 & 8 of the Education and Training Reform Regulations prescribe matters relating to financial arrangements. Fundraising A parent club must ensure that the raising of funds and the expenditure of funds raised complies with Part 4, Divisions 7 and 8 of the Regulations. Also from the Regulations: Regulation 54 states that the
- [Fundraising](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/fundraising/) - There is no requirement for a Parent Club to fundraise. However, most clubs will undertake at least some fundraising as part of their role. As well as providing often greatly needed funds for the school, fundraising can lead to greater recognition and acknowledgment of the Parent Club within the school community. Fundraising could be a
- [Raffles and gaming fundraisers](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/raffles-and-gaming-fundraisers/) - Raffles and other gaming activities such as lucky envelopes and casino-style games are a popular way for non-profit organisations to raise funds. Parent Clubs cannot legally conduct raffles or gaming activities, but schools can. This is because any organisation that runs a raffle or gaming activity must be registered with the Victorian Gambling and Casino
- [Membership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/membership/) - Applying for membership The membership form attached to the Model Constitution must be used to apply for membership. Once the form is submitted at the AGM or any general meeting, the applicant is a member until the next AGM. All memberships must be renewed annually, at or after the AGM. For your convenience, we have
- [Insurance for Parent Club volunteers](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/insurance-for-parent-club-volunteers/) - Have you ever wondered whether parents are covered by insurance when they're volunteering at Parent Club events? Insurance can be a bugbear for small volunteer organisations, who may not be able to afford the cost of public liability insurance. However, there's reassuring news for Parent Clubs. We received the following advice from the Department of
- [Your school community](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/your-school-community/) - Developing good relationships First understand each group and its role in the school and its relationship (if any) to the Parent Club. School Council The school council is the committee of management for the school. It is a legal body, constituted under the Education Act. A school council is regulated by the Education Act, Regulations
- [Minutes](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/minutes/) - Minutes are the formal record of decisions the committee makes. It may be vitally important that committee decisions are accurately recorded. If there is doubt or dissent about what has been decided, the minutes are your only reliable documentation. Don't just rely on memory! What's in the minutes The minutes should record the time, date
- [Online meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/online-meetings/) - The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a massive increase in online communications, replacing face-to-face meetings and events. Whether it's a multinational corporation or your Parent Club, we've all adapted to new methods of communication. Even if face-to-face meetings are possible, some Parent Clubs may choose to run some meetings online for convenience. Each club will need
- [Spending on the Parent Club's own running expenses](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/spending-on-the-parent-clubs-own-running-expenses/) - Section 54 of the Education and Training Reform Regulations 2017 specifies that all Parent Club expenditure must be approved in advance by the School Council. This includes funds that the club spends on its own running expenses - for example, a club may need to hire a space for its meetings, pay for videoconferencing services such
- [Re-inventing a Parent Club for busy parents](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/re-inventing-a-parent-club-for-busy-parents/) - This article is reproduced, with permission, from the ACT Council of P&C Association‘s ParentACTion magazine, Term 2 2022. Note that in the ACT, the Parent Club is generally known as the “P&C”.How do you renew, nurture, and grow your P&C in today’s difficult environment? Maree Wright, past President at North Ainslie Primary P&C, shares their
- [Governance and compliance FAQs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/governance-and-compliance-faqs/) - Usually Parent Clubs run smoothly, but every once in a while a tricky question arises - see our FAQs page for a few of them that we have encountered, with answers. See FAQs
- [Finances overview](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/finances-overview/) - Sound financial management for parent clubs means that all financial transactions are properly recorded and effectively controlled. The treasurer is responsible for the financial management of the club and may be expected to carry out the following duties: Ensure money received is receipted and deposited promptly with the school Maintain accurate records of current income
- [Reviving an inactive club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/reviving-an-inactive-club/) - Even if a Parent Club has not been active for some time, the club can resume activities, as long as it has not been dissolved as per the Regulations. Once reactivated, the club is not required to undertake the formation process. However it must ensure it has adopted the current Constitution. For more information, see:
- [Building a sense of community](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/building-a-sense-of-community/) - Parent Clubs fulfil an important social function. This has always been and continues to be a significant aspect of any Parent Club’s purpose. Apart from joining your parent group to try and do something about improving your school, people will be joining the group for all sorts of more personal reasons. Some people may be
- [Your Parent Club Constitution](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/your-parent-club-constitution/) - All Parent Clubs must ensure they have a Ministerially approved constitution, which is consistent with the current Education Regulations . More information on Parent Club Constitutions is available on our Constitutions page.
- [The School Strategic Plan](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/the-school-strategic-plan/) - What is it? The School Strategic Plan sets out the school strategic directions for the next four years, expressed through goals and targets, and key improvement strategies. This most important document needs to reflect the views of the whole school community and so must be developed in cooperation and consultation with parents, teachers and students
- [Merging Parent Clubs](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/merging-parent-clubs/) - When schools merge When schools merge there is sometimes anxiety over the ongoing role of the Parent Club. A large school with no Parent Club may merge with a small school with a very active Parent Group. Concerns of the small school may include loss of identity and what will happen to the funds they
- [Government regulations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/government-regulations/) - The Education and Training Reform Regulations 2017 (Part 4, Division 7) sets out rules for Parent Clubs, including: Formation of a Parent Club Fundraising Use of funds Dissolution of a club Download the Regulations Download a PDF version from the Victorian Legislation website
- [Building participation and support](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/building-participation-and-support/) - Why do parents join a Parent Club? Most parents join a parent club because they are interested in their child's education and wish to be informed about what is happening at the school and be involved in supporting the school. Other people will join the group for more personal reasons. Some may be wanting to
- [Practical tips to build participation](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/practical-tips-to-build-participation/) - Here are some practical tips on how to build participation in your club. Always designate a personable contact to liaise with parents. If the President is unable, it could be the Secretary or a Publicity Officer. We would suggest it is someone confident and readily available to do the ‘meet & greet’, follow up people,
- [Inclusive leadership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/inclusive-leadership/) - In any group, some people will need to take initiatives in getting things going. Good leadership is vital here. Whoever takes the organising initiative must be a 'democratic leader'. This is a person who understands that the group's success is of primary importance and that only strong group effort will bring it about. The democratic
- [Roles in a group](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/3213-2/) - These tables provide a breakdown of some common roles that help to get things done and keep a group going. Getting things done The following chart describes some different roles and types of behaviour that can help a group achieve its goals. You might recognise these roles being carried out by yourself or others in
- [Publicity outside the school](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/publicity-outside-the-school/) - The main forms of media which are commonly used by the wider community: Online Print Media Radio Here are a few guiding principles when using these forms of information sharing: What makes news? It is important to be clearly aware of what is newsworthy. Sometimes the most obvious story is overlooked. Review your activities and
- [Public speaking - top ten tips](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/public-speaking-top-ten-tips/) - It’s only natural to be a little nervous before giving a speech. These tips are designed to help you overcome your nervousness, and will help you to give a professional presentation. Know your material. If you have been asked to give a speech, chances are you have something valuable to share with others. Knowing your
- [Priority setting and planning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/priority-setting-and-planning/) - For a club to operate effectively it will need to set priorities and to plan appropriate ways to achieve them. Planning needs to take account of a number of competing considerations These include: The range of members' interests The agreed significance of particular issues Deadlines for particular activities or responses on particular issues Availability of
- [Committee: office bearers overview](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/committee-office-bearers-overview/) - All clubs must have a president, secretary and treasurer. Clubs that are members of Parents Victoria should also have a Parents Victoria representative. Many clubs also have some or all of the following: vice president(s), assistant secretary, assistant treasurer, publicity officer and committee members. Other positions may be developed according to the needs of the
- [Committee: Role of the President](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/committee-role-of-the-president/) - The president is the spokesperson for the club and often represents the club at official functions. The president has an important role in generating enthusiasm and interest in the club. She/he is the facilitator and often the mediator of the group. The president of a club acts as chairperson of the meetings and it is
- [Committee: Role of the Secretary](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/committee-role-of-the-secretary/) - The main tasks of the secretary are preparation of minutes and agenda and dealing with correspondence. The secretary is also usually responsible for the practical arrangements relating to meetings e.g. ensuring adequate seating and refreshments. If at all possible minutes should be circulated to all members prior to the meeting. The success of a meeting
- [Committee: Role of the Treasurer](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/treasurer/) - The duties of the Treasurer may vary depending on the size and structure of the club but will usually include: Make sure that the secretary is given a copy of the financial statement prepared for each meeting. This statement and a report by the treasurer will form part of the club’s minutes. All accounts should
- [Meetings overview](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/meetings-overview/) - Why have meetings? When people act together as a group they will make decisions together. Meetings are necessary to ensure that all involved have an opportunity to share their knowledge and express views, and also to ensure that actions are well coordinated and effective. Meetings are important To a large extent the quality of its
- [The agenda](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/the-agenda/) - Points to reflect on when developing a workable agenda prior to the meeting: Keep it flexible The Agenda should always be negotiable at the meeting Everyone should be clear about the purpose of the meeting, what is planned to happen and how long it is likely to take. Prepared agendas save a lot of time
- [Preparing for meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/preparing-for-meetings/) - For best results, meetings need to be planned. Here are some tips for organisers / office bearers / presidents and secretaries: Know who is coming; be sure of a minimum attendance to make the meeting a success. (Remind people and ask others to help. An email group or Facebook group can be useful.) Gather the
- [Common meeting problems (and how to handle them)](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/common-meeting-problems-and-how-to-handle-them/) - Containing a long winded speaker or dominator People are often unaware that they are "going on" or stopping others from participating. It helps if you have agreed at the start, on a process of facilitating the participation of all or even the desirability of it. Time limits are useful if it becomes a common thing.
- [Evaluating meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/evaluating-meetings/) - Evaluation has an important part to play in ensuring that meetings are effective and meet the needs of those attending. Collecting data on the perceptions of those attending meetings is important, both to enable participants to influence the shape of future meetings, and to allow progress on the group’s identified priorities to be tracked and
- [Boosting numbers at your AGM](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/boosting-numbers-at-your-agm/) - This article comes from our friends at the Fundraising Directory. It’s AGM season and you may be busy looking for a new executive or trying to boost numbers on your committee. Many parents may even be scampering off into the distance at the very sight of you! What can be done to make people realise
- [Meeting techniques](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/meeting-techniques/) - Brainstorming Brainstorming is used to expand the thinking of the group by putting as many solutions as possible before the group in a limited time before discussion and evaluation takes place. It frees the imagination to come up with new ideas. How it can be done People sit in a semicircle facing a blackboard, whiteboard
- [Formal meeting procedure](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/formal-meeting-procedure/) - In the interests of cohesion and goodwill it is desirable to reach decisions by consensus. However that’s not always possible and it’s important to know the rules of formal meeting procedure. Here is a basic summary, with some links below for more detail. Making and recording decisions Even if a consensus is reached easily, it’s
- [Starting the year right](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/starting-the-year-right/) - The start of the school year presents some great opportunities for Parent Clubs to: Welcome new families to the school Capitalise on the enthusiasm of new families who will be excited about their child starting school/starting secondary school. Remember that many new parents will have experience of volunteering and serving on committees at kinder or
- [Winding up a club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/winding-up-a-club/) - Dissolution of a Parent Club The Education and Training Reform Regulations (Regulation 55) state: (1) A parents’ club of a Government school may not be dissolved unless: (a) all reasonable steps have been taken to circulate a notice of dissolution generally throughout the school community; and (b) a meeting to discuss the notice of dissolution
- [Receipting and payments](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/receipting-and-payments/) - All clubs are now required to hold their funds in the school’s financial management system, CASES21. Clubs will need to adopt procedures for handling money received and for raising orders for goods or services, to ensure that finances are accurately reported. Expenses that have been incurred with the approval of a general meeting may be reimbursed
- [Maintaining records](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/maintaining-records/) - All receipts and payments should be recorded in a cash book. You can either do this manually or on a computer spreadsheet. Treasurers proficient in bookkeeping may also choose to use a commercial software package e.g. MYOB but it is probably not necessary for the amount of transactions most parent clubs make. Income This section
- [The Finance Report](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/the-finance-report/) - Parent Club Treasurers should discuss and make a regular arrangement with the school Business Manager, to reconcile the Treasurer's Finance Report with that of CASES21, in readiness for each regular General Meeting of the club. This is to ensure the club and the school each have understanding and agreement on the monthly income, spending and
- [Sub-committees](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/sub-committees/) - Different parents will join the Parent Club for different reasons. Some may be interested in organising social events and fundraisers, others in discussing current issues, and others in learning from guest speakers... and each other. If your Parent Club has diverse interests, the answer might be to form sub-committees. Small groups of like-minded parents can
- [Sample Tool Kit](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit/sample-tool-kit/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/news/)
- [Fundraising](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/fundraising/)
- [PV media comment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/pv-media-comment/)
- [Events](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/events/)
- [Our view](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/our-view/)
- [PVo only](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/pvo-only/)
- [Funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/funding/)
- [Fundraising page only](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/category/fundraising-page-only/) - Items in this category appear only on the Fundraising page, not on the front page.

## Tags

- [Covid](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/covid/)
- [Equity](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/equity/)
- [Conference 2021](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/conference-2021/)
- [2022 Conference](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/2022-conference/)
- [2023 Conference](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/2023-conference/)
- [2024 Conference](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/tag/2024-conference/)

## Issues Category

- [Family Engagement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/family-engagement/) - In this section of the website we have gathered lots of resources to help teachers and school leaders make effective family engagement a reality: Why family engagement? Strategies Parent Partnerships Know your families Research
- [Relationship based Education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/relationship-based-education/) - What is Relationship based Education? Relationship based Education is a philosophy of education that puts relationships at the centre. It is a tool for long-term culture change and for addressing challenges. The key messages are: Relationships that form in the educational environment are the bedrock for everything else that happens. The fundamentals of a positive relationship (Trust, Forgiveness, Integrity, Hope, Compassion) apply to all relationships, including those in the educational environment. Parents Victoria has 100 years’ experience when it comes to listening to parents and educators at Victorian public schools. We know that things don’t always run smoothly; misunderstandings and conflicts occur between teachers and students, between school and home, and we’ve helped to resolve many of them. We believe that quality relationships are the key to quality education for our children. These pages provide empirical evidence, a philosophical background, practical advice and examples to support our belief that relationships are central to learning. The resources on these pages are intended for educators and parents. Explore Relationship based Education The philosophy – the ideas that underpin Relationship based Education Making it happen – practical methods to make Relationship based Education a reality Research and reading – Evidence for Relationship based Education, and further reading What schools (and others) are saying – Endorsements from teachers, school leaders and collaborators Who we are – more about Parents Victoria and John Hendry, the originator of Relationship based Education. Contact us Staff and parents at Victorian public schools can contact us by clicking the button below. rbe@parentsvictoria.asn.au RbE in two pages Want a brief summary of Relationship based Education to share with colleagues and friends? Download our 2-page flyer with a basic rundown of the program and philosophy behind it, success stories from school leaders and contact details. Download flyer now RbE booklet If you want a little more detail, this collection of articles by John Hendry OAM and David Moore explore the issues of a kind/resilient culture, the ‘me first/we first’ distinction, and restorative practices. Download booklet now Videos Our 2022 Annual Conference focused on RbE, and all the presentations are available on video. We looked at the What and Why of RbE with John Hendry OAM (originator of RbE) and Kristin Reimer PhD from Monash University. We also learned a lot about the How from two schools that have implemented RbE: Ocean Grove Primary School and Prahran High School. Their stories are inspiring! Watch the videos
- [Student Wellbeing](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/student-wellbeing/)
- [Parent Rights and Responsibilities](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/parent-rights-and-responsibilities/)
- [Diversity and Inclusion](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/diversity-inclusion/)
- [Infrastructure and Technology](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/infrastructure-and-technology/)
- [Curriculum & Assessment](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/curriculum-assessment/)
- [Public Education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/public-education/) - This page covers the ‘big-picture’ systemic issues in the education system, including school funding. For more detailed coverage of the school funding issues, see our School Funding page.
- [Research and reading](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/research-and-reading/) - The Relationship Based Education approach is supported by academic research from all around the world. We have gathered resources that provide direct evidential support for the approach in one article, while other articles list suggested further reading for schools, parents and children.
- [The philosophy](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/the-philosophy/) - The ideas behind Relationship Based Education In these articles, John Hendry (with help from other writers and thinkers) lays out the philosophical basis for Relationship Based Education. John says that relationships are not a ‘side issue’ or an ‘add-on’ in the world of education; they are central, they are the ground from which everything else grows. Schools are inherently social places, and learning happens in a context of many relationships – between students and teachers, teachers and parents, students and other students, all the way to the office staff and the crossing supervisor. Relationships matter John argues that teachers, parents and children need an understanding of relationships – how to form and sustain them, how to deal with mistakes and conflicts, how to recognise positives and negatives – in order to create an environment where children can thrive and learn. The central message of John’s work is, “relationships matter”. Quality relationships are fundamental to our mental and physical health, our capacity to do well, to contribute and to add meaning to our lives. Trust One of the critical elements of a quality relationship is trust. Many factors in our modern society have led to an undermining of trust in institutions and in our fellow human beings. But we can learn to form quality relationships based on trust, and these relationships are the basis of a positive and resilient culture in any group or organisation – and that includes schools.
- [Why family engagement?](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/why-family-engagement/) - There are plenty of good reasons why family engagement benefits children’s education. Here we present just some of the evidence.
- [Strategies](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/strategies-family-engagement/) - What stratagies can be used to make family engagement really work?
- [Parent partnerships](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/parent-partnerships/)
- [Know your families](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/know-your-families/)
- [Research](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/research/)
- [Making it happen](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/making-it-happen/) - These articles explore practical methods to make Relationship Based Education a reality. Of course this includes working with our Relationship Based Education leader and facilitator John Hendry. We provide details of a typical program that John can offer to schools.
- [What schools (and others) are saying](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/what-schools-are-saying/) - John Hendry has successfully introduced Relationship Based Education into many schools, from the western suburbs of Melbourne to Hong Kong and India. Here’s what the teachers and school leaders have to say. We have also included some comments from academics and thought leaders with whom John has collaborated.
- [Transitions and Careers](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/transitions-and-careers/)
- [Who we are](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/who-we-are/) - Here is some information on the background and experience of our Relationship Based Education leader and facilitator, John Hendry, and also on Parents Victoria, which is supporting this initiative.
- [COVID-19](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/covid-19/) - This section has resources to help you through the difficulties of the COVID-19 pandemic. A good place to start is our Reliable Information page, with lots of links to authoritative health and education websites – don’t rely on ‘word-of-mouth’, get your information from a reliable source. Watch our News & Views page and the Victorian Coronavirus website for updates about current restrictions.
- [Who's Who in Education](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/whos-who/) - There are lots of organisations involved in education – statutory bodies that service, oversee and regulate the sector, non-profits that support and represent various interest groups, and more. We are building a list of educational organisations here; this is a work in progress. Want to suggest an education organisation we should include here? Contact our office.
- [School Funding](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_category/school-funding/) - This page brings together articles on the funding of public education from a variety of sources. For broader issues related to public education, see our Public Education page.

## Issues Tag

- [Featured](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_tag/featured/)
- [Submission](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_tag/submission/)
- [Campaigns](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_tag/campaigns/)
- [frontpage](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_tag/frontpage/)
- [Position Statement](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/issues_tag/position-statement/)

## Toolkit Category

- [Role of the Parent Club](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/role-of-the-parent-club/) - This section has general information about what Parent Clubs do, why they are so valuable to a school community and how they fit in with School Council and school administration. There is also a handy list of resources provided by the Education Department and other relevant organisations.
- [Regulations](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/regulations/) - Parent Clubs need to work within a framework of government regulations. There are specific regulations for Parent Clubs, so even if you have experience with other non-profit groups, you may find the regulatory environment is different for your Parent Club.
- [Build participation](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/build-participation/) - How do you ensure that everyone in your school community knows about the great work your Parent Club is doing? How do you ensure everyone feels welcome to join in the Club’s activities and have their say? This section contains lots of practical advice about how to build active participation in your Parent Club.
- [Leadership](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/leadership/) - This section contains information about the major roles on your Committee and some general advice on decision-making and inclusive leadership.
- [Planning](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/planning/) - You might feel that you don’t have time for planning, but it actually saves time in the long run. Good planning gives everyone confidence that things will run smoothly, and makes it easier to get people on board to help out.
- [Finances](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/finances/) - Looking after the club finances can be challenging if you don’t have any experience in the relevant procedures. Here’s some advice for Club treasurers. A good place to start is the Finances overview.
- [Meetings](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_category/meetings/) - Love them or hate them, meetings are an important part of running your club. Learn to get the best out of your precious time at meetings with the practical advice in this section. A good place to start is the meetings overview.

## Toolkit Tag

- [success](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_tag/success/)
- [frontpage](https://www.parentsvictoria.asn.au/toolkit_tag/frontpage/)