Admissions and Marketing Special Interest Groups (SIG)

In February, more than sixty EducatePlus members took advantage of the Special Interest Groups held at Brisbane Boys College. Our Special Interest Groups and Professional Development events provide a brilliant opportunity to network and learn from one another, as practitioners with diverse experience share their knowledge and best practice with their fellow members. Thank you to BBC for hosting our February SIGs, to our facilitators, and to everyone who attended and passionately participated, creating another very successful event.

Admissions Special Interest Groups

The recent Admissions SIG facilitated by Louse Woods, Registrar of Somerset College, focused on sales techniques in the enrolments space. With international experience in sales and marketing, Louise has successfully adapted the skills she developed in commercial sales to her role in schools. In her presentation “Seal the deal – the formula for increasing enrolments”, Louise identified the six types of buyers prospective parents can be divided into, as well as some practical sales tips that can be applied to each type to help seal the deal and increase enrolments.  With over twenty-five enrolments professionals in attendance the room was bussing with discussion, debate and the sharing of ideas. Thanks Louise!

Marketing Special Interest Groups (see top image)

We welcomed forty education marketing professionals at our recent Marketing SIG at Brisbane Boys College on the 22nd February to discuss the topic ‘Internal Marketing for Retention – Reaffirming their decision.’ Members shared tips about what works best in their school and how their marketing to existing families differs to prospective families.

A few of the top ideas, included how important it was for new staff be ‘brand inducted’ with key messages; for school branding to be implemented from day one and the importance of Senior Management speaking in one voice. Attendees also shared their experience with successfully engaging parents to be strong advocates through various groups at our schools and how we can transform them to be brand ambassadors and build school culture.

The informal, group atmosphere was much appreciated by the presenters and members, with everyone taking some great ideas back to their own schools.

Educate Plus ACPNS Scholarship (QUT)

Applications are invited for the Educate Plus ACPNS Scholarship. Designed to assist members of Educate Plus to undertake study through The Australian Centre for Philanthropy and Non-profit Studies (ACPNS), successful applicants will further their careers and enhance their contribution to the Australasian education and non-profit sectors.

The philanthropy and non-profit studies area equips students for a career in the management of philanthropic and non-profit organisations. Students undertaking this study area build skills and knowledge relevant to the specialised Third Sector and core content is framed by the international Non-profit Academic Centers Council curriculum. The philanthropy and non-profit studies specialisation in the Graduate Certificate of Business is designed to provide foundation knowledge, research and skills appropriate to the philanthropic and non-profit industry profession.

The Graduate Certificate in Business is an excellent re-introduction to tertiary learning and an opportunity to update skills or, as one-quarter of the Master of Business program, a pathway to higher level study.

Successful applicants will receive a scholarship to cover 50% of your tuition fees for the eight Graduate Certificate in Business (Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies) units.

Applications close on Wednesday 7 March 2018 and can be accessed HERE.

Queensland President’s Report | Welcome

Whether you are new to the sector or an experienced practitioner, the professional development opportunities offered by Educate Plus to their members in the four pillars of Enrolments, Marketing, Alumni and Fundraising are paramount to keeping informed of the latest developments and best industry practices.

The Chapter AGM was held in November with Glenda Fitz-Payne stepping down after a two-year Presidency. Thankfully, Glenda remains on the 2018 Committee, and I sincerely thank her for her commitment to our Chapter and ongoing support.

Thank you to the outgoing committee members: John Collins (Business Revelations), Amanda Houston (West Morton Anglican College), Catherine Williams (Faith Lutheran College) and Luanne Wishart (St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School) for their wonderful contribution to Educate Plus QLD.

I also welcome our new committee members to the team: Kelly Edwards (Brisbane Boys College), Megan Giles (All Hallows’ School), Claire Grlj (Leading Marketing Solutions), Tiffany Hardy (Brisbane Boys College), Alice Tidmarsh (St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School), Helen Turner (St Laurence’s College) and Nicole Wykes (Nambour Christian College). The Chapter Committee can be viewed here however John Bacon (Somerset College) and Bruce Wright were absent.

This dynamic team of volunteers has designed an incredible program for 2018 which kicked off with over 60 attendees at the first Admissions and Marketing SIG (Special Interest Group) at Brisbane Boys College. This year, we are excited to take the show on the road with two regional events – Toowoomba (May) and Rockhampton (July).

The 2018 Biennial International Conference will be held in Auckland, New Zealand. This conference is hosted in various cities around Australia and New Zealand and was last hosted by our kiwi neighbours in 2006. I would strongly encourage you to attend the conference and take advantage of the early bird rate (ends 30 April) and/or apply for a scholarship to assist with costs – your institution will thank you for the professional growth you will experience.

As always, we are grateful for the ongoing support of our sponsors. Please consider them for any opportunities you may have in the future.

Once again, welcome to 2018! Remember to make the most of your membership and follow us on Linkedin or  Facebook and Twitter @Educate_Plus. To each of our 272 QLD members, I wish you a productive and successful year as we all work within our unique institutions for the common good of the education sector.

Lea Walker-Franks F.Edplus
President – Qld Chapter

Welcome to new members

We welcome the following new members to the Queensland Chapter of Educate Plus in 2018.

As valued members of our Chapter, I encourage you to attend as many events as possible in the years ahead.

For all QLD enquiries please email: qld@educateplus.edu.au

Regional Membership Opportunity

Accessing relevant and cost effective Professional Development is an ongoing challenge for regional schools, particularly in Queensland.

To assist regional schools with their professional development, EducatePlus is now offering educational organisations not in the South East Queensland area bounded by the Gold Coast, City of Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast, a special membership offer of $300 per annum.

Want to know more?
Click here to view details of the offer. To discuss the opportunity for your institution, contact QLD Chapter Committee Member and Regionals Chair, Claire Grlj at claire@leadingmarketingsolutions.com.au.

Engagement and Effective Communication with Millennial Parents

The Millennials, also known as Gen Y, are defined as the generation born between the early 1980s and 2000, the largest generational cohort in history. They are now embracing parenthood and with their unique background, shaped during a time of change and digital immersion, their outlook and values will shape their expectations for their children (Gen Z). These children will be the most technically literate generation ever, the most formally educated and the most entertained and materially endowed.

You will play a part in this!

Millennials are tech savvy

As ‘digital natives’, Millennial parents expect personalised engagement and communication using social media. Data analytics are essential to guide strategic communications and engagement and using digital specialists (either in house or outsourced), a blended multi (or omni) channel approach will maximise your engagement.

Communication

Millennials communicate through constant digital connections and the mobile or tablet is their tool of choice. They demand ongoing and instant knowledge. (Patience is not a strong characteristic of this cohort). The printed newsletter or magazine is quickly irrelevant and Millennials demand immediacy and authenticity. Share your achievements and those of your students to validate your mission and values. Tell a story, share videos and photos on social media to connect with your community.

Decision Making

With an abundance of information and a wealth of choice available, much research has taken place before decisions by parents are made. Remember you are no longer speaking with just the mothers at home. Their choice of school will be shaped by those who can demonstrate added value, are authentic, and whose brand reflects the values of Millennials, a global approach to learning, a sense of social responsibility and service to others, along with a commitment to both lifestyle and learning outcomes.

Loyalty

On average, the Millennials stay in a job for three years and have a number of different careers in their working lifetime. They learn, get the most out of it and move on. Will this also be a pattern for their children? Will we see students moving between schools regularly due to disenchantment, demand or just looking for a change of scenery? This will certainly be a challenge for schools’ enrolment and communication professionals.

Respect

Respect is no longer a given, it must be earned. Millennials have regard for people, not institutions so personalise your engagement. In an era of digital connectedness, the human element remains essential. Show empathy, creativity, patience and respect for your customers (current and future). Be available and responsive. Personalise your connection and make your community part of your Advancement team.

Learning

Millennial parents see their children as a priority, and the classroom, home, work and extended out of school activities have become an integrated learning space. Despite the use of technology within these spaces, emphasis on educational outcomes, personal relationships and connection remains Number 1. We must respond to and monitor the needs, concerns and behaviour of parents and their interaction with others in the community via social media. They, too, are part of your collaborative marketing and public relations team.

As we acknowledge the values and expectations of Millennial parents, how do we as Advancement professionals, address the unique challenges of engaging and communicating with them in an educational setting?

How can we best attract them to our brand, connect with them and secure and maintain their commitment? 

As competition for gaining and maintaining enrolments intensifies, securing and growing your brand is paramount. Rising to the challenges of successful engagement and communication with your Millennial parents, and indeed the whole school community, is not a choice but a necessity if your institution it to remain viable and strong as it moves towards an unknown but exciting future.

PD & SIG Events 2018

The Queensland Chapter Committee is excited to announce the dates for our Professional Development and Special Interest Group events for 2018.

Locations, details and bookings will be released closer to each date. Click here to see our events open for registration and lock them in your diary.

• Term 1:

  • Fundraising Masterclass by Nick Jaffer – Thursday 15 March REGISTER NOW

• Term 2:

  • Regional Roadshow to Toowoomba–May (more details to come)
  • Special Interest Group–Alumni and Events and Community Relations – Thursday 17 May
  • Professional Development Event–Marketing & Admissions – Thursday 7 June

• Term 3:

  • Regional Roadshow to Rockhampton–July (more details to come)
  • Special Interest Group–Fundraising, Admissions and Events and Community Relations – Thursday 2 August
  • International Conference – Tuesday 4 – Friday 7 September REGISTER NOW

• Term 4:

  • Special Interest Group – Alumni and Marketing – Thursday 18 October
  • Professional Development Event, AGM and Christmas Party – Friday 23 November

Reminder: PD Fundraising & Alumni Masterclass

Don’t miss this outstanding opportunity for your Professional Development.

Join this TWO-PART MASTERCLASS  presented by Nick Jaffer, President & CEO of GLOBAL PHILANTHROPIC.

When: 15 March, 9am-1pm
Where: Women’s College, University of Queensland
Cost: Members $50 | Non members $65 (+ GST)

This Masterclass is designed for experienced Advancement leaders currently working in Independent Schools or Universities. Nick will draw on his vast industry experience and utilise case studies from the Tertiary Sector to help participants gain insights into top tier Advancement practice, enabling them to identify ways to take the next step up.

Part 1: Top-Tier UInitiatives in Fundraising & Alumni Relations

Part 2: Engaging Your Leadership & Securing Their Support

About Nick …..

Nick is a fund development leader with 27 years’ experience across Canada and Australia. He worked with the Leukaemia Research Fund, Aga Khan Foundation and Alberta Lung Association before holding senior positions at the University of Alberta during its milestone $193 million capital campaign. He has held leadership roles at Curtin University and The University of Sydney where, under his management, the team tripled the number of donors and grew annual fundraising revenues from $20M to $75M per year, leading into the university’s current $600M “Inspire” campaign. He has received awards from CASE, the Canadian Council for Advancement of Education, and the Alberta Association of Fundraising Executives for his work.

A Fellow of Educate Plus, Nick is a contributing author to the bestselling “Excellence in Fundraising in Canada”. He has been recognised with awards from CASE (Council for the Advancement and Support of Education), the Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education and the Alberta Association of Fund Raising Executives, and he has presented at workshops and conferences across the world.

Nick is a Non-Executive Director of the Australian Theatre for Young People and Fundraising Institute of Australia (NSW) and has also served on boards for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Leukaemia Research Fund, University of Alberta School of Business, and Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.

Leading Global Philanthropic’s Asia Pacific operations, Nick has worked with clients in the education, health and medical research, arts and culture, public policy and community services sectors including the Australian National University, Hong Kong International School, St Peter’s College, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney Symphony and National Library of Australia amongst others.

We hope to see you there!

2018 International Conference – updated program available!!!!

A professional development opportunity not to be missed, with more than 70 sessions delivered by experts and thought leaders from across Australasia and overseas.

Please download our latest  Conference Program 22FEB

Please extend this invitation to any advancement practitioners you know who are not members of Educate Plus

 Scholarships – helping you get there $$$$

We’d like every member to be able to attend this fantastic professional opportunity but we realise this might be more difficult for some institutions. The Board has facilitated a Scholarship Program of $500 per delegate available through each Chapter. For more details, please download the application form HERE. Please note Scholarship applications close on 30 March 2018.

Please CLICK HERE to access accommodation and flight options.

Please CLICK HERE to meet our incredible Leadership Keynote Speaker – Corrinne Armour

Australian participants – register here

New Zealand participants – register here

 Full registration package includes:

• Attendance at any session in any stream
• Welcome drinks (Tuesday 4 Sept) and Sponsor’s Drinks (Wednesday 5 Sept)
• Morning and afternoon refreshments and lunches during conference (incl Awards Lunch)
• Conference Gala Dinner (Thursday 6 Sept)
• Conference satchel, lanyard, program
• Delegate contact list

 Day Registration and Half-Day Registration Package includes:

• Attendance at any session included in full day or half-day period
• Refreshments served during full-day or half-day sessions
• Conference program

 Additional Social Program tickets

Please note that ‘Full registration’ includes: Welcome Drinks, Awards Lunch and Gala Dinner. Fill out these options only if you require extra tickets for the events.

 Stay in touch

Follow us on Social Media for the latest updates

#epauckland2018
 

Scholarships for International Conference

 Scholarships – helping you get there $$$$

We are delighted to announce that Educate Plus will be offering 8 x scholarships per chapter of up to $500 to support Educate Plus members attending the International Conference in Auckland, 5-7 September, 2018. Applications close 30 March 2018.

We’d like every member to be able to attend this fantastic professional opportunity but we realise this might be more difficult for some institutions. The Board has facilitated a Scholarship Program of $500 per delegate available through each Chapter. For more details, please download the application form HERE.

Development & Fundraising – Synergetic

Are your school’s development and fundraising campaigns being managed as well as you’d like them to be? Taking control may be easier than you think.

The Synergetic Development and Fundraising module boosts your campaign efforts by leveraging your organisation’s data within your existing Synergetic community database to strengthen relationships with your community.

Benefits include:

• Making the most out of the data you’re already maintaining in Synergetic, such as students, parents, staff & suppliers, which is directly consumed by the Development & Fundraising system, eliminating double data handling and assisting privacy compliance
• Generate a deeper understanding of your community by producing profile reports and relationship trees
• Powerful search facilities that generate specific record sets such as previous donors, prospective donors or those who have attended specific events in the past, allowing you to tailor your campaigns to suit
• Save time & improve efficiencies with the smooth integration of the Synergetic finance system, including ePayment portal and events management system
• Simplify processes around future pledges by efficiently capturing receipt due-dates and issuing reminder letters and remittance slips. Have records updated with payment amounts and next payment details
• Manage appeals and pledges based on your school’s needs and set individuals or companies as ideal targets to contribute to your appeal
• All associated prospecting activities can be recorded, so you’ll have background information before making that all-important follow-up call

Unlock the full potential of your Synergetic database and boost your campaign prospects with our integrated Development & Fundraising system.

To make an enquiry, click here

For more information, contact us today on +61 3 9803 8000  or via email solutions@synergtic.net.au

Meet your 2018 Committee

Our QLD Committee for 2018 is as follows:

President Lea Walker-Franks F.Edplus Director of Development St Joseph’s College LeaWalker-Franks@Terrace.qld.edu.au	Vice President / Alumni PD & SIG Coordinator (Chair) Sue Russell F.Edplus Alumni Manager St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School s.russell@staidans.qld.edu.au
Treasurer/ Admissions PD & SIG Coordinator (Chair) John Bacon F.Edplus Dean of Admissions Somerset College jbacon@somerset.qld.edu.au	Secretary / Alumni PD & SIG Coordinator (shared) David Miles Old Boys Manager Anglican Church Grammar School david.miles@churchie.com.au
Committee Member – Past President QLD Membership (Chair) /Fundraising PD & SIG coordinator (Chair) Glenda Fitz-Payne F.Edplus Development Director Citipointe Christian College       glendaf@citipointe.qld.edu.au	Minute Secretary /Marketing PD & SIG coordinator (Chair) Beth Kitson  Communications Officer Redlands College bkitson@redlands.qld.edu.au
Committee Member / QLD Communication (Chair) /Social Media (Chair) Megan Giles Communications and Community Liaison Manager All Hallows’ School megan.giles@ahs.qld.edu.au	Committee Member / Events & Community Relations PD & SIG coordinator (Chair) Kelly Edwards Development & Events Coordinator Brisbane Boys’ College kedwards@bbc.qld.edu.au
Committee Member / Fundraising PD & SIGs coordinator (shared)/Regionals Tiffany Hardy Director of Development Brisbane Boys’ College  thardy@bbc.qld.edu.au	Committee Member / Sponsorships (Chair) Bruce Wright Director of Philanthropy The Southport School Bruce.Wright@tss.qld.edu.au
Committee Member / Admissions PG & SIG coordinator (shared)/Social Media (shared) Alice Tidmarsh  Director of Marketing and Admissions St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School a.tidmarsh@staidans.qld.edu.au	Committee Member / Marketing PD & SIG coordinator (shared)/QLD Communications (shared)/Regionals Nicole Wykes Marketing & Communications Manager Nambour Christian College nicole.wykes@ncc.qld.edu.au
Committee Member / Events & Community Relations PD & SIG coordinator (shared) Helen Turner  Director of Communications, Development and Events St Laurence’s College hturner@slc.qld.edu.au	Committee Member / Regionals (Chair) Claire Grlj Leading Marketing Solutions claire@leadingmarketingsolutions.com.au

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You may have missed this video about 11 time conference goer – John Bacon on our facebook page: