From the Chapter President!

Welcome to the SA/NT Chapter Newsletter!

This weekend, I had the privilege of travelling to Sydney with the Educate Plus Board – a committed team representing schools and institutions across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. The weekend not only provided a welcome change of scene but also an opportunity to connect in person and to reflect on the significant strides we’ve made as an organisation. Our discussions were rich with ideas on how to further support our members, enhance professional development opportunities, and continue to build on the solid foundations of our organisation.

A highlight of our calendar this term is the upcoming Educate Plus International Conference in Perth from 10-13 September. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic event, with over 750 attendees already registered! It’s brilliant to see such strong representation from our Chapter, with over 70 of our members from South Australia and the Northern Territory attending. This Conference is an exceptional opportunity to learn, network, and gain insights from industry leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, there will be something for everyone.

Leading up to the Conference, we had the recent coffee catch-up (22 August), which was a fantastic chance to meet new members and reconnect with familiar faces. For those heading to Perth, it was the perfect opportunity to make connections before the big event. Plus, it’s always nice to share a coffee and some good conversation!

I encourage everyone to take advantage of the professional development and networking opportunities provided by Educate Plus. The connections we make and the knowledge we gain at these events are invaluable, and they contribute so much to our professional growth and the success of our schools.

With best wishes  

Helen Karapandzic
SA-NT Chapter President | Educate Plus

Director of Philanthropy
Prince Alfred College

hkarapandzic@pac.edu.au

Welcome to our Newest Members

We can’t wait to meet you!

We extend a very warm welcome to our latest Members, who have recently joined us this quarter (see below). We are thrilled to have you as part of our SA/NT Chapter community!

Our next ‘New Member Meetup’ is coming up shortly, with the details listed below.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday 29 August (This Week!)
Time: 1.00pm-2.00pm AEST
Location: Online (via Zoom)

Presenters:

• Tina Fleming, Membership Manager, Educate Plus
• Danielle Hargrove, Marketing & Communications Lead, Educate Plus
• Sona Swindley, Events & Partnership Lead, Educate Plus

These sessions are a wonderful, informal way catch up with other new Members, and to hear more about the benefits of being a Member and what is available to you on our website. 

If you are new to Educate Plus, click below to register for the New Member Meet-Up.

Register Here / More Info | New Member Meet-Up

Welcome to our new SA/NT members who joined this quarter:

International Conference Update

Now only 2 weeks to go … 

It’s almost time for over 750 delegates (and counting!) to converge on Perth, WA … and we can’t wait!

Below is some summarised information that hopefully is helpful for you, whether you’ve already registered, or you’re still deciding if you are able to.

• View updated Program (as of 23 August)

Information for those who’ve already registered (we can’t wait to see you!):

• Social Program – Register for the SA/NT Chapter Gathering (Hurry … numbers need to be sent to Venues shortly!)
• Social Program – Celebration Event Theme: Dress to Impress with a Splash of Pink!
• Register for a Pre-Conference Workshop (email sona@educateplus.org who will arrange Workshop registration to be added to your existing Conference registration and update your invoice accordingly)

For those who haven’t yet registered (we’d love to have you join us!):

• Register for the Conference

Strategic Positioning: Setting Your School Apart in a Competitive Market

This article was submitted by Amy Bredon | communikate et al | SA/NT Chapter Partner

In today’s competitive educational landscape, strategic positioning is essential for schools aiming to stand out. 

Westminster School’s recent collaboration with communikate et al to bring to life its new 5-year strategic plan exemplifies the importance of clear and cohesive brand positioning. 

Westminster’s new strategic plan revolves around the concept of providing an “adventurous education to lead a full life.” This innovative approach aims to nurture every child’s inherent sense of adventure, fostering a unique learning environment where students are encouraged to “Start Adventurous and Stay Adventurous.” 

The process began with an in-depth immersion into the Westminster ethos. communikate et al engaged in extensive tours and discussions with school leaders, alumni, executives, and parents to grasp what makes Westminster unique. This comprehensive understanding was crucial in crafting a brand story that truly reflects the school’s core values and mission. 

Key components of the project included: 

• Developing a compelling brand story and messaging
• Positioning and conceptualising the campaign
• Producing a brand video and six supporting videos featuring the Principal and ‘pillar champions’
• A brand photoshoot
• Designing and managing the production of a Strategic Plan booklet, posters, press ads, digital assets, and signage.

The launch of Westminster’s new strategic plan to stakeholders was a resounding success, thanks to the strong and cohesive brand positioning. The internal launch, marked by heartfelt speeches from Westminster’s Chair and Principal, highlighted the authenticity and resonance of the new campaign. 

The Chair, an old scholar, emphasised how the videos captured the essence of Westminster, reflecting its core values and community spirit. The meticulous process of interviews, filming, and editing resulted in content that deeply resonated with the school’s identity and ethos. 

Westminster’s example demonstrates how a well-thought-out strategic positioning can significantly enhance a school’s reputation and appeal. By clearly articulating their unique educational approach and values, schools can differentiate themselves in a crowded market, ensuring they attract and retain families and students (and staff) who align with their vision. 

As Westminster continues to roll out their brand campaign, the importance of strategic positioning in education marketing becomes ever more apparent. It’s not just about standing out; it’s about creating a lasting connection with your community through a clear and compelling narrative. ​​ 

To chat about how we can support you, contact Amy Bredon on abredon@communikate.net.au or 8331 1444.  

Systems and Storytelling SIG Success

Let’s Talk Systems: Using technology to streamline operations, replace spreadsheets and work smarter! 

On Thursday 18 July, almost 50 Educate Plus members attended the professional development event “Let’s Talk Systems: Using technology to streamline operations, replace spreadsheets and work smarter!”. Hosted by Joanna Arvanitis, Project and Systems Manager at King’s Baptist Grammar School, the workshop-style event was a thought-provoking opportunity for members to think practically about how they can use systems to work smarter, redefine processes and reduce manual handling. 

The event involved an in-depth case study presentation focussed on how the team at King’s have implemented and managed transformational change relating to enrolments, automated communications, removing the need for manual tracking and spreadsheets, and redefining business rules and staff responsibilities. The presentation was extremely practical – with all attendees prompted to think about what they could take away and apply in their own roles to address administrative challenges or issues.  

Following the case study, attendees had the opportunity to network and talk about their own school’s processes and systems via roundtable discussion groups. The room was buzzing with insightful discussion and a willingness to share and learn from each other! 

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a successful one for our Educate Plus members.  

Storytelling through the Lens: Using Video to Share your School’s Purpose and Build Engagement and Connection 

Video content has become one of the most dynamic mediums for storytelling, and schools are embracing its agency in different ways. On Wednesday 12 June, St Peter’s Girls’ School hosted over 50 delegates for a rich panel discussion, with a diverse range of schools with a metropolitan and regional footprint. Thanks to Scotch College, Encounter Lutheran College, St Peter’s Girls’ School, and industry Expert intel for Communikate et al.  

Some great takeaways from the session included: 

• Prioritise your time. When resourcing is scarce, just start – a phone can be a power resource – teach yourself how to edit. 

• There is a place for inhouse and agency video content. Know your audience and your goal. 

• Craft a compelling narrative when working on bigger projects. Student voice in this space is powerful. 

• Develop branding templates to build consistent branding for socials. 

• Edit with purpose 

Engaging with authenticity resonates with the communities we all serve. Whether you’re telling a personal story or presenting a brand narrative, being genuine and relatable helps build a connection. Use real-life experiences, authentic voices, and honest emotions to create content that feels true and engaging. Avoid overly polished or staged scenarios unless they serve a specific purpose in your storytelling. 

Understand Your Customers to Deliver Personalised Support Services

This article was supplied by Firefly | Educate Plus Strategic Partner

Have you asked yourself: “How easy is (for customers) to engage with us?”.

In the context of education “customers” could be thought of parents, students and staff who interact with your educational institution.

No matter how outstanding your offering is, if it’s difficult for families to communicate with you, to have their questions answered, you may not retain them. This can be especially applicable for younger demographics who have had ‘big tech’ addressing individual needs with an optimised Customer Experience.

Optimising your Customer Experience (CX) is making each interaction with your organisation and brand positive.

Meeting your customer’s needs in a timely manner at each stage of the customer journey, from initial enquiry through to enrolment and graduation, builds trust and loyalty with your brand. Satisfied customers are more likely to refer and recommend.

What can you do if your Customer Experience needs some improvement?

Transform your Customer Experience

CX Transformation can be thought of streamlining your services and processes to improve (customer) interactions with your brand.

When rethinking the way your organisation approaches Customer Experience you should consider three critical areas:

1.Visualise the level of service you want to deliver

What do you want your Customer Experience to look like? What are the outcomes you’d like to achieve?

• • Evaluate these against your organisation’s purpose and brand promise.
  • Look at your Mission and Vision and decide what changes in customer behaviour you’d like to see.

Likely it’ll be clear where to focus attention to make positive, transformative change.

2. Overhaul processes and programmes

Evaluate your current services with an open mind:

• • Do your research. Put yourself in your customer’s shoes.
  • Talk to your staff and families to evaluate their viewpoints with respect to service delivery.
  • Commit to making the changes necessary for CX improvement.

3. Build new capabilities

Changes need to be supported with training and technology. Effective staff training and support will help minimise customer frustration through efficient handling of customer queries.

• • Minimise disruption through integrated technology platforms.
  • Assist staff with process automation
  • Building survey or data analysis tools into each step of the customer journey is a great way to encourage feedback and problem solving across processes and departments.
  • Consistent brand messaging and tone of voice across platforms builds trust.

Encouraging a customer centric mindset, you’ll create a better customer experience, happier families, staff and a stronger organisation.

Want to Chat Further?

For further info get in touch at fireflydigital.net.au or email info@fi.net.au

Your Guide to School Yearbooks

This article was supplied by advancedlife | SA/NT Chapter Partner

School Yearbooks are more than just collections of photographs and names; they memorialise the essence of a school year, preserving memories that students and staff alike will cherish for years to come. These meticulously crafted volumes capture the highlights of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and the evolving friendships that define each school community. From candid snapshots of everyday moments to formal portraits and heartfelt messages, yearbooks serve as nostalgic windows into the past, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among those who flip through their pages. Each Yearbook tells a unique story, celebrating the diversity and spirit of the school and creating lasting connections between its readers and their shared experiences. 

To ensure your school Yearbook captures these priceless memories and includes everything your school is proud of, there are a few things you need to consider. 

What type of Yearbook will I choose? 

• Perfect Bound Yearbook – Perfect bound books are our most popular choice for yearbooks. Perfect Binding simply means the pages and cover are glued together at the spine with a strong yet flexible PUR glue. This method ensures you receive a robust and sturdy book which will last for many years to come making it a perfect choice for school yearbooks. 
• Saddle Stitch Yearbook – Saddle stitch books are a perfect budget friendly solution for small run books with less than 60 pages. This book is perfect for Year 6 yearbooks or for smaller runs when cost is a priority. 
• Hard Cover Yearbook – Hardcover bound books are renowned for their durability and sophisticated appearance. These books are not the most popular choice however if budget is not an issue and you are after a high-quality product this is a great option for you. 

Digital Yearbook

Digital yearbooks represent a modern twist on the traditional printed version, offering a dynamic and interactive experience for students and families. We provide the digital files ready for you to place on your school’s website so you have control over who can access and for how long you make the file available. Users can browse through pages filled with photographs, stories, and memories from their school year. They provide a convenient way for schools to distribute and archive memories, catering to a tech-savvy generation accustomed to digital platforms. Many schools opt to have a hard copy yearbook as well as a digital yearbook to cater for all their community’s needs. 

Choosing the Right Stock and Finish 

The type of paper stock used significantly impacts the overall feel and quality of your yearbook. Our suggested choice for your Yearbook is a matt/silk paper stock. Matt paper provides a smooth, non-reflective surface, giving a classic and elegant look. It is suitable for all types of Yearbooks and is often chosen for its readability and high quality. It can also minimise fingerprints and smudges which is ideal for Yearbooks that are looked at many times over the years! 

 We also offer the option of adding a Gloss or Matt Celloglaze to the cover of your Yearbook. While the standard finish is perfect on its own, the celloglaze or laminate film can improve your school Yearbook by: 

• Enhancing Durability: Celloglaze adds a protective layer that improves the durability of printed materials, making them more resistant to scratches, tears, and moisture. 
• Aesthetic Appeal: It enhances the visual appeal of printed items by adding a glossy or matte finish, depending on the desired effect. Glossy celloglaze provides a shiny, reflective surface, while matte celloglaze offers a more subdued, non-reflective appearance. 
• Improved Print Quality: It can enhance the vibrancy and richness of colours in printed images and text, giving them a more polished and professional look. 

For those of you that really want to make your book stand out try adding Spot UV Varnish to your cover. Spot UV varnish is a special type of coating applied to printed materials to create areas of shiny, glossy highlights or accents. It adds contrast and visual interest by creating areas of gloss against a matt background. This technique can highlight logos, text, images, or other design elements, making them stand out and catch the eye. We apply the Spot UV varnish over the matt celloglazed cover. This option provides a premium high-end finish to your school Yearbook. 

The Process

To make your Yearbook a success planning your project ahead of time is crucial. Talk to the advancedlife team about your Yearbook requirements. Do you want advancedlife to handle your yearbook from start to finish including both design and print or perhaps you just want us to print it for you? Making your decision at least 9 months before your books are due to be completed is perfect. If you decide to do the design yourself our team can suggest a suitable online platform or program that works for you. We can also give pointers on how to get the best results and save your work for final output to our printers. 

 Here is a general timeline to ensure your Yearbooks are delivered on time: 

1. Decide on a Design
   Choose from one of our templates (primary school or high school) or provide a brief for a custom design. If you would like us to design something similar to your previous yearbook, you can provide a sample of this for us to reference while we build your new yearbook. All of our templates can be customised to your school colours and needs. 
2. Create a Timeline
   Confirm a delivery date for your books to arrive at your school for distribution. We can then work out a date for receiving content from you, proofing and receiving final sign off. Sticking to these dates will ensure your yearbooks are completed on schedule. 
3. Approve Design
   Once we have received your design brief, we will put together a base design to get your project started. We will provide a proof of this design for you to approve prior to supplying your content. 
4. Collect Content
   Form a dedicated yearbook team with assigned roles such as editors, photographers, writers, and designers. Ensure everyone understands their responsibilities and communicates effectively. Collect a wide range of content throughout the school year, including candid photos, formal portraits, event coverage, student artwork, and written submissions such as quotes, memories, and achievements. Make a list of the reports/sections you require in your Yearbook and compile a list in the order you wish to appear. If you would like a set number of pages for each section list the page numbers on this list. We recommend using Microsoft Excel for this. Create or request a Sharepoint, OneDrive or Google Drive folder that you will use to collect and store your yearbook content in. Name the folders Section 01, Section 02 etc. Start collecting content for your yearbook and place into folders. Within each labelled folder you should have all text in a word document and all images as separate JPEG files. Please make sure you proofread all text and make any corrections required before supplying to us to place in your book as this can cause delays later in the process. 
5. Layout and Proofing
   Generally, we allow 4-6 weeks for design set up, proofing and final sign off. Once your content is supplied, our team will work on a complete first draft based on the template or design concept you have requested. Once complete, advancedlife will supply a PDF proof for you to review, so you can advise us of any changes we need to make to layout, design and content. Once changes are finalised a final proof will be sent to you to confirm all changes have been made and you are happy for us to print your yearbook. Our team will then begin the production process. 
6. Printing and Delivery
   Most jobs will take 3-4 weeks from proof sign-off to final books being received. We will keep you up to date during this time and let you know when your Yearbooks are due to arrive at your school. 

Creating a memorable Yearbook is advancedlife‘s specialty. Talk to the advancedlife team today about your school Yearbook project and how we can make your next yearbook, the best on yet! Contact our team at print@advancedlife.com.au or request a quote today. 

Are you ready to create your school yearbook? 

Simply click on the button below and provide some details for your book and we will organise a quote and get in touch to discuss your school yearbook requirements further. When you request a quote using the button below you are automatically entered into our Win a Yearbook Competition. 

 School Yearbooks | Find Out More

Introducing …

Each eNews, we introduce you to one of our wonderful Chapter Members, through a Question & Answer type interview article. 

Therefore, in the hotseat this edition, is Joanna Arvanitis | Project and Systems Manager | King’s Baptist Grammar School

1.Tell us something that might surprise us about you. 

From the age of 5, I played the role of ‘Emily’ in the three original The Fairies movies filmed here in South Australia. I also performed in the live shows around SA as a child. Singing, dancing and performing were a passion of mine growing up. 

2. What led you to your present role? What is your favourite aspect? 

Prior to my role at King’s Baptist Grammar School, I worked as a Business Development Manager at the University of South Australia’s Australian Centre for Business Growth. I was one of the founding team members of the Centre and was responsible for a broad range of tasks, including marketing, driving enrolments, setting up and maintaining systems, and developing digital content, including e-learning courses. The program content we delivered at the Australian Centre for Business Growth taught me the knowledge and skills required for an organisation to grow – and I think this has largely contributed to my holistic understanding of business operations. 

My favourite aspect of my current role as Project and Systems Manager at King’s is the opportunity to work collaboratively with staff across the whole school and drive change to streamline processes.  I enjoy the process of having a vision, leading a team through a complex project with multiple stakeholders and seeing the vision come to life at the end of the project lifecycle.  

 3. How long have you been a member of EP? 

Almost 2 years. 

4. What has being a member done to help your career development? 

I have found that the networking and professional development opportunities offered by Educate Plus have been truly valuable because they provide regular opportunities to connect with other schools and continue learning. 

5. Who would you like to have lunch with and where? 

This is a tricky question and would change on a regular basis depending on my stage of life and interests. I think lunch with Janine Allis (Founder of Boost Juice) would be very interesting and insightful. I’d love to hear about how she navigated the growth of Boost Juice as a female founder while also juggling parenthood.  

6. Favourite food and why? 

Lasagna. It is my definition of soul food! 

7. Where is your favourite travel location and why? 

My favourite travel location is Italy. Not only because of the incredible food, scenery, attractions etc, but because it is a place of cultural connection to my family’s heritage. When I have visited, it brings a feeling of ‘being home’. 

8. What does success look like to you? 

Working collaboratively with a team to achieve a shared goal that will positively impact the school/organisation. 

Thank you Joanna Arvanitis – it’s been wonderful getting to know you!

Welcoming Global Talent: The Changing Landscape of Adelaide’s Education & Fundraising Sectors

Article submitted by Julie Baker from Richmond Associates | SA/NT Chapter Partner

I recently returned to Adelaide after 25 plus years of working and studying abroad and my efforts to make new connections have prompted me to reflect on how Adelaide has changed in the time I’ve been away. Like many Australians, I moved overseas to seek broader employment and career opportunities, so I was pleased to see that Adelaide has provided this for others.  

Via the Educate Plus network I see that schools are giving opportunity for international professionals to bring fresh perspective. Case in point is one of my first contacts here, Ana Gozalo, who moved to Adelaide 17 years ago on a skilled migrant visa.  Initially aiming for a role in communications and PR, Ana secured a role with Walford Anglican School for Girls providing the opportunity for her to work with alumni, leading to a more dedicated fundraising role with Scotch College Adelaide and then a Director of Philanthropy role with Pultney Grammar School. Ana appreciates the closeknit teams she has worked with plus the professionalism of the marketing and communications, both within fundraising and across the schools. Ultimately this has led her to where she is in her career while enabling her to settle here, personally and professionally.    

Meeting Abhra Bhattacharjee, previously the Director of Advancement and Director of Philanthropy at Scotch College Adelaide, also prompted my thoughts about this.  Abhra moved to Adelaide specifically for his role at Scotch College and when we met had positive things to say about living and working in Adelaide and has since shared his thoughts on welcoming team members from abroad:   

“In our global society, skills such as teamwork and creativity are more important than ever. I believe that colleagues who grow up in a multicultural setting are exposed to other ideas and perspectives, which helps develop curiosity and collaboration. By working with people who approach things differently, we learn first-hand that the best way to solve a problem is by working with others.” 

I second this and believe that international talent can bring unique styles and methodologies that can invigorate a work environment. Diverse backgrounds can introduce new approaches to problem-solving, critical thinking, and global awareness, enriching the experience for their team members, also providing firsthand insights into different cultures, global issues, and international standards.  

As privately funded schools across Australia push to improve access, facilities and student experience via world class leadership, marketing/communications, fundraising and ultimately admissions, based on my perspective as a global recruitment consultant who works in this space, and as an Australian returning to her home city, I welcome the increasing role that international talent could play in ensuring their success.  

Julie Baker
jbaker@richmond-associates.com
+61 2 8218 2185

Julie Baker is a Consultant with Richmond Associates who work in partnership with the world’s leading education, arts and cultural, health, and charitable organisations to find experienced and emerging fundraising and advancement professionals. 

2025 Student Diaries – OBH has done the work, so you don’t have to!

This article was sent in by Kristen Worthington from Openbook Howden | SA/NT Chapter Partner

For a practical, durable, and inspiring diary that helps students manage their time effectively off-screen, consider these recommendations:

Template Designs: Choose from our 14 inspiring template designs for your internal pages. We’ll customise them for free to fit your school’s branding with colour and font modifications. If our templates don’t meet your needs, our in-house graphic designers can create a custom design tailored specifically for your school.

Free Resources: Enhance your diaries with our free resources, including weekly wellbeing tips by Positive Minds Australia, inspirational quotes, study notes/life skills, Heroic Habits from The Rite Journey, and Bible verses or religious devotions.

Size: The B5 size is practical—compact enough for a bag but spacious enough for comfortable writing. For extensive notetaking, consider the Quarto size, which is closer to A4 in width but shorter, maintaining practicality and ease of transport.

Binding: Our durable plastic coil binding is flexible and resists bending, warping, or separating, retaining its shape even under pressure. This type of binding allows diaries to open flat, making it easy for students to write to the edges.

Cover: We suggest a clear-line poly cover. This 1mm thick clear plastic sheet features diagonal textured lines, providing durability against dinks and scrapes while displaying your beautiful, printed cover design clearly underneath.

Printed Edges (Artificial Tabs): To delineate sections without breaking the bank, we print different colours up to the edge of the pages, visible on the fore-edge (non-bound side of the book).

Printed Bookmark: Keep students organised with a folding printed bookmark, usually placed inside the back cover. This bookmark extends out like a flap and can be used on any page, ideal for daily reminders (e.g. school values) or useful resources like a printed scale ruler.

Vinyl Pocket: Our durable vinyl pocket, which can be added anywhere in your diary, features two main pockets and three smaller ones.

Recycle Your Diary: 99% of the diary components can be recycled easily. The internal pages, coil, pocket, and poly covers are recyclable when separated. The 1% is the laminated cover. Separate the laminate portion and discard and recycle the remaining paper.

At OBH, we craft premium diaries with environmentally responsible, forestry-managed paper, proudly produced in Australia. Trusted by over 150 schools annually for their diaries, we ensure your unique diaries are delivered on time, every time.

Kristen Worthington
Marketing and Communications | Openbook Howden Print & Design

T: (08) 8124 0000
E: kristen@openbookhowden.com.au

Thank You to our Valued Partners

Thank You …

We’d like to extend a huge ‘Thank You’ to our valuable Strategic and Chapter Partners, who support Educate Plus and the SA/NT Chapter in our activities and enable us to provide wonderful opportunities to our members and non-members. We ask that you please consider supporting them, so that in turn, they can continue to support us. 

Thank You to our SA-NT Chapter Partners

Thank You to our Educate Plus Strategic Partners

Connect with Colleagues

Stay Connected…

Keep in contact with your fellow Advancement professionals to keep abreast of best practice, discover new approaches and technologies and gain valuable industry insights.

To keep you to up to date with what’s happening at Educate Plus and within your sector, please connect with us on our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages.