Board News .....

Survey Results

Dear OLA Community

As you are aware, the School Board organised a survey of parents and staff at the end of 2017. The purpose was to obtain opinions on areas in which the school is doing well and those requiring improvement in an effort to develop the next iteration of the School’s Strategic Plan. Thank you to all of those people who took the time to provide feedback. In all 144 responses were received.

Two questions sought feedback on the three greatest strengths and challenges of the school. The highest ranked responses were as follows:

                   STRENGTHS                                                                         CHALLENGES

                   Location                                                                                   Academic extension

                   Faith based learning                                                           High academic standards

                   Modern buildings and facilities                                      Academic support

The questions that followed were grouped into five categories. The first four categories are considered the responsibility of the Leadership team:

Faith development

Learning

Student behaviour and well-being

Parental engagement and communication

The final category is the responsibility of the School Board:

Facilities and resource allocation

Within each of these categories a number of statements were asked. Whilst the majority of responses were favourable (neutral or better), the data nevertheless provides a valuable insight to complement the student performance data that will be used to drive improvement. The new School Leadership team have reviewed the results and have already identified a renewed focus on teaching and learning as a priority for 2018. This is intended to drive academic opportunities and standards.

At the last School Board meeting the Board discussed the feedback received in relation to facilities and resource allocation and provided advice on the other categories. The challenge of prioritising limited resources to support programs focussed on supporting all students and at the same time extend those that are stronger academically, was discussed. The Board and P&F’s role in communicating resourcing decisions and in strengthening community was also discussed.

It was agreed that the data provides much to be positive about and with the appointment of a new experienced Principal, presents a strong basis for preparing our next Strategic Plan which will be a focus of the Board and the Leadership team over the coming months. Attached is the summary from the survey.

OLA School Board