Victorian President's Report

Last week I had opportunity to attend the Government Schools Education State Forum at the invitation of Minister Carroll.  The forum served as a collaborative space where key stakeholders, government officials, and department employees came together to discuss and address pertinent issues facing Victorian Government schools. 

Through the Education State Forum, the Victorian Government demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education and equitable opportunities for success.  Minister Carroll provided the opening keynote address where he highlighted and emphasised the important role of public education and expressed a strong focus on supporting teachers.  In fact Minister Carroll explicitly stated, ‘teachers are my agenda.’ 

Perhaps it was an oversight but the Minister’s address at the forum made no reference or provided such a high commitment and endorsement for school leaders. Whilst the profound impact teachers have on students’ achievement and development is undisputed, case study literature also highlights the key role the principal class play in school effectiveness and improvement.  Put simply, principals are not teachers with responsibilities as their multifaceted responsibilities require unique skills sets and expertise beyond that of a teacher. 

There needs to be a shift in the narrative to include, acknowledge and value the principal class as individuals who have a clear set of accountabilities which distinguishes their work from other employees within the system.

Attempts to lift respect and regard for the profession must be encompassing of teachers and school leaders and this needs to be demonstrated from within the system and beyond.