Principal's Report

Parents and Carers as Partners in Education: the need to communicate with respect

The Department of Education’s Framework for Improving Student Outcomes (FISO) identifies the important role of collaborative partnerships between parents and carers and the College. It is clear that parent and carer positive involvement in a child’s school contributes to increased student learning, health and wellbeing. These partnerships must be collaborative, based on effective communication, mutual trust and respect, and shared responsibility for the education of the students at the school.

At Doncaster Secondary College we take pride in the strong partnership and effective communication which takes place between the vast majority of parents and carers and the College. This has meant that when issues and concerns arise, we are able to work together to address these and seek solutions which lead to positive outcomes for our students.

Recent reports on 60 Minutes and in The Age have shone a light on the increase in abusive and disrespectful behaviour which schools are facing from some parents and carers.

I am disappointed to report Doncaster Secondary College has had some experience of this alarming trend. Already this term, we have had incidents where our staff felt abused or under threat by an aggressive parent. This behaviour has taken place in the presence of both staff and students, and impacts on our ability to provide a safe environment. The College has a duty of care to provide a safe environment for all members of our community. 

For this reason, I would like to draw your attention to the College ‘Dignity & Respect Statement’ which is embedded within this newsletter. This statement outlines the behavioural expectations of all members of the college community. All behaviours and interactions within the College must uphold the principles of our Statement of Values so that our school can continue to operate in a safe and orderly manner and continue to achieve excellent student outcomes.

ANZAC Service - Rotary Club of Templestowe

On Wednesday 24 April, our two College captains Abbey and Keishan accompanied Ms McGee and me to the 29th Manningham ANZAC Day observance ceremony.  Our Year 7 SEAL class attended the ceremony with Ms Taylor. The dignitaries present included Mr Bruce Evans [President – Rotary Club of Templestowe], the Hon Kevin Andrews MP, Councillor Paula Piccinini [Mayor – City of Manningham] and Mr Brian Atherton [Past President of Templestowe RSL sub Branch].

The service was a very moving tribute to all Australians who served and died in the war and operational service.  The spirit of ANZAC was evident amongst the crowd of 750 students and staff representing the schools in the city of Manningham.  Our students laid a wreath on behalf of our College. The qualities of courage, mateship and sacrifice continue to be as relevant today as it was in Gallipoli in 1915. 

Glenn Morris 

Acting Principal