St John's School Newsletter

St John's 

School Advisory Council

AGM REPORT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The School Advisory Council (SAC) at St John’s Primary School met seven times this year, including our Annual General Meeting in November. These gatherings continue to serve as an essential forum for connection, commitment, and consensus, helping to support both the school and its students. As an advisory body, the SAC plays a key role in strengthening the partnership between parents, school, parish, and the wider community. Through collaborative discussions and shared insights, the council works alongside the principal and parish priest to ensure the wellbeing and success of all students, while fostering an environment where every voice is heard. 

While the SAC does not have decision-making authority or involvement in the daily operations of the school, its contributions remain vital in shaping the direction and future of St John’s.

 

Our School Advisory Council is made up by the following members.

 

Verona Gridley – School Principal

Father Dispin John – Parish Priest (Custodian of Mission)

Melinda Buscema – Deputy School Principal/RE Leader (Custodian of Mission)

Angela Maclean– Chair, Parent Representative

Samantha Solomons –  Secretary, Parent Representative (Parishioner)

Nicole Whelan – Parent Representative

Deb Bowers- Parent Representative

Anne Tyedin Parent Representative

 

Some of the topics that were raised and discussed throughout the year included:

 

  • Induction of new members and completing team formation activities ensuring the Terms of Reference and Induction Manual were up-to-date.
  • Celebrating our School Art show
  • Community engagement opportunities throughout the year.
  • Communications to ensure families receive information in a timely manner including social media tools.
  • Celebrating LSO Day
  • Welcoming local kindergartens into our school for story time and to see what school is like
  • Student behaviour expectations and school processes and policies.
  • Sharing our ‘Courage Corner” to our community- recognising the courage of our volunteers
  • Presentation on Learning and Diversity (Neurodiversity) from Ange Crowe our Learning Diversity Leader
  • Presentation on Charism and Religious Education from Melinda Buscema
  • School maintenance and improvement, developing our new
  • Masterplan.
  • Marketing and promotion of our school for 2025 Prep enrolments and other year levels.  
  • Continued welcomed assistance from new marketing company for updates to our social media platforms
  • Website updates including new videos, photos and content
  • 2025 school fees review.
  • School purchases through the year.
  • Management of the school gate opening
  • Staff changes and training.
  • The latest child safe standards were successfully implemented.  Child Safety is a standing agenda item discussed every meeting and we continued to promote awareness.
  • Student wellbeing was also a regular agenda item that drove several initiatives including communication around behaviour management processes and tools the school has in place. 
  • Supported the school in reviewing and updating the Behaviour Policy for our students
  • First Aid policy

 

Firstly, we would like to express our sincere thanks to all members of the School Advisory Council for their valuable contributions throughout the year. Each member has brought unique insight and experience to our discussions, and we have truly appreciated their time, dedication, and commitment to the work of the SAC. It has been a true team effort, and we are grateful for the collaborative spirit that has shaped our conversations and decisions. Together, we’ve worked towards the shared goal of supporting the school community and ensuring the best outcomes for our students. Thank you for your ongoing involvement and support!

 

Lastly, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Verona and Melinda for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout the year. It's been a busy year with a range of important topics discussed, and both Verona and Melinda have consistently made the effort to listen to the parent voice and provide thoughtful responses. Your dedication to ensuring open communication and addressing our concerns has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to the school community. Thank you for your continued partnership and for always striving to make a positive impact on St John’s Primary School.

 

As we wrap up this year, we look forward to a wonderful 2025 school year ahead. We truly appreciate all the feedback, comments, and suggestions we have received from you, the parents and wider community of St John’s. Your engagement and support play a crucial role in making our school a vibrant and thriving community. We are excited to continue working together and supporting you all in the year to come. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Christmas season! If you're heading away, we hope you have a relaxing holiday and travel safely—whether by car or by air. See you in the new year.

 

Angela Maclean

Chairperson and Parent Representative