Principal's Report

Education in the news

Recently the news media featured a number of education related stories. In particular there has been considerable coverage in relation to parent payments and school zones. I thought it was worth discussing and clarifying some of the issues detailed in this coverage.

The Herald-Sun recently featured a story with the headline, “How state schools are tricking parents into paying more in fees”. Whilst I can’t speak for all government schools I am confident that our practices are in line with department policies that are designed to ensure fairness and transparency. I know that our College Council is particularly keen to ensure that we are doing all we can to keep fees as low as possible and this something that we are committed to.

What the article didn’t focus on was the positive impact that parent payments have on school resourcing. For example, this week we have received 10 new SLR cameras for use by our photography students, allowing them access to modern state of the art technology. By using industry standard equipment, these new cameras allow our students every opportunity to showcase their talent. In the last couple of weeks we have also begun demolishing the old D Block toilets. This facility will be replaced by a modern, state of the art facility using world’s best practice design principles. These exciting developments happen thanks to contributions from our parents.

Parent payments allow us to provide the best resources and programs for our staff and students. I would like to thank parents who have already contributed and encourage those who haven’t yet to contact the office if they need assistance.

The other main story that had featured recently related to changes to government school zones or neighbourhood boundaries . Whilst some of these changes may have significant impacts to some schools and residents in their communities, I do not anticipate it having much impact on Wantirna College. Clearly, with students already enrolled at the school there is probably less of an urgency around this issue for current parents compared to prospective parents, however I think it is important to reassure our community that there will not be significant changes affecting us. What will be new, will be the ability to enter your address into a Department of Education website that will tell you which school is designated neighbourhood school.

Bus issues

A number of parents and students have raised concerns directly with me and other members of the school staff in relation to bus overcrowding. I would like to explain that none of the school buses that travel to Wantirna College are operated independently by the school. All bus services are provided by Ventura Bus Lines and determined by Public Transport Victoria (PTV). Any requests for additional services are ultimately determined by PTV and not the school. We are certainly raising the concerns with both Ventura and PTV when they are brought to our attention. It is important that our students always touch on when they travel by bus, because this data is used to determine patronage and influences any decisions being made about extra services.

Ambulance cover/accident insurance

I would like to remind all parents and guardians that the College does not provide accident and ambulance cover for incidents that occur at school. Parents and guardians are encouraged to seek advice regarding appropriate insurance. Personal property is often brought to school by students, staff and visitors. This can include mobile phones, calculators, toys, sporting equipment and cars parked on school premises. It is not the responsibility of the College to hold insurance for personal property brought to school, and the College has no capacity to pay for any loss or damage to such property, students and staff are discouraged from bringing any unnecessary or particularly valuable items to school.

Kevin Murphy

Principal