School Council meetings are held once a month. The meetings are open to the
public and attendance by interested parents/guardians and staff is encouraged.
The Council consists of 15 elected members, eight of whom are parent
representatives (including one from the Parents’ Auxiliary). There are five
staff representatives (including the Principal who is automatically appointed to
Council). Two co-opted members complete the complement. Elections are held just
before the Annual General Meeting which is in March each year. At this time,
seven members are elected for a two year term.
We encourage all parents to consider standing for election to the School
Council in order to ensure that capable, competent and committed representatives
are elected.
The main functions of School Council are:
- To be a decision making body within the guidelines set down by the
Directorate of School Education
- To develop policies
- To oversee the management of the school finances
- To maintain and develop the buildings and grounds
- To assist the Principal and staff to provide a stimulating, enjoyable and
rewarding environment for our children.
The Council has an effective sub committee system in operation covering:
- Before and After School Care
- Buildings and Grounds
- Education
- Finance
- Fundraising
- International School to School Experience
- Parents' Auxiliary
- Promotions and Publicity
- Safety House
- School Cooperative
These committees provide for a broad input on particular issues and carry out
the basic groundwork, hence reducing Council workload. Councillors are members
of one or more committees.
Over the last few years all State Schools have been involved in the process
of the devolution of authority. This means that the staff and parents have
greater responsibility for developing curriculum policies and for direct
supervision of building/grounds contracts for school maintenance and
improvements. Unfortunately, this initiative has resulted in an increased
workload for the teaching staff and the committed parents who assist the school.
For this reason, I strongly urge ALL parents to assist by:
- Volunteering to serve on committees, or join the Parents’ Auxiliary
- Helping with fundraising
- Assist teachers where needed
- Helping at working bees
The level of commitment of parents will be reflected in the rewarding
educational experience shared by all children at Upwey Primary School.
Ultimately a good quality education will benefit not only our children, but
all the community.
Jenny Staff,
School Council President
