President’s message

Thanks to Euronews.com for the header image. 

Too young to be a veteran

It’s a very satisfying feeling to write an introductory message as the incoming President of an organisation that has given me so much. As a fourteen-year member of Educate Plus, with about ten of those on the Committee, I feel I’m reasonably well-credentialed to make the following statement. 

“Educate Plus members are a wonderfully giving and supportive professional group.”

There is a camaraderie which exists amongst members – and a vibrant sharing economy which serves to support and drive improvement at all of our schools and institutions, right across the Advancement sector. Thank you all for making this so.

Thank you, Russell

Thank you too, to Russell Davidson, as outgoing President for steering the VIC/TAS ship through the past few years, including this most jarring of trips around the sun, 2020. The growth in membership and the continuation of online events throughout the pandemic is testament to the professionalism and commitment you brought to the role. Thanks again, Russ’, I look forward to continuing to work with you on the Committee. 

No-one has had an easy year, least of all us Victorians who had to negotiate months of remote work and lockdown conditions. Our schools looked very different for the great majority of the year, and our roles will continue to look different as we move into 2021. The concept of ‘doing more with less’ is one that we must all get comfortable with.

Looking forward together

That’s where the value of Educate Plus membership comes into its own. In 2021 we look forward to continuing the Special Interest Group (SIG) opportunities for professional development, sharing, support and networking. Workshop and Regional Events will feature, and a further expansion of the Accredited Training Programs which were incredibly successful this year. The biggest event on the 2021 calendar is the much-anticipated 2021 International Conference, to be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from September 6-9. As Neil says, they sell out, and this year, we expect it to go more quickly than normal. So, make sure it’s in your PD budget and book early!

I look forward to working with the VIC/TAS Committee this year to bring you a variety of PD opportunities and encourage you to pop the events in your diary as they are announced and make the most of the online and in-person catch-ups as they occur.

Best wishes for a relaxed, safe and happy summer, I look forward to seeing you at one of our events in the new year.

Adam Liddiard (Director of Community Relations – Woodleigh School)
VIC/TAS Chapter President