From the Chapter President

Laura Kendall | WA Chapter President

As the year comes to a close, there’s a natural inclination to reflect on what we’ve accomplished, both individually and collectively. For Educate Plus WA, 2024 has been a year of growth, connection and presentation with the flagship event being the Empowering Success International Conference held right here in Perth.  

Yet, as we celebrate the successes of the year, I find myself reflecting on a theme that resonates deeply in our industry: the challenge of burnout as the end of the term/semester/year comes around. The roles we hold often require us to wear many hats — navigating relationships, managing events, solving problems and constantly innovating. It’s work we’re passionate about, but it’s also work that can stretch us thin if we’re not careful. 

Burnout doesn’t always appear as exhaustion or frustration; sometimes it manifests more subtly. It might be the creeping feeling of losing focus on the things that matter most. It might be the temptation to say yes to one more commitment, one more project, one more opportunity, even when our calendars are already full. The drive to keep pushing can lead us to forget that the most important resource we have—our energy—is not infinite. 

This time of year often becomes a whirlwind. There’s a pressure to finish the to-do list, attend every end-of-year event, and tick off every final obligation. But as we prepare for 2025, I believe there’s an opportunity to pause and reassess how we approach the work we do. If we want to begin the year with clarity and purpose, we need to intentionally create space to focus on what truly matters. 

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of saying no. It’s not about being negative or disengaged; it’s about recognising the limits of our time and energy and using them wisely. Saying no to something that doesn’t align with our priorities creates space for the things that do. It allows us to bring our best selves to the projects and relationships that are most important, rather than spreading ourselves too thin. 

As we (hopefully) take a break over the summer and as we step into 2025, I encourage each of us to take a moment to reflect on our priorities. What truly matters to you, both personally and professionally? What do you want to focus on in the year ahead? And, just as importantly, what can you let go of to make space for those priorities? 

We are fortunate to have a strong and supportive community in Educate Plus. It’s a network that thrives on collaboration and shared knowledge, and I know we’ll continue to support each other as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Lean on this community when you need it. Share your experiences, your lessons, and your moments of clarity. Together we are stronger, and together we can create a culture that values balance, intention and sustainability. 

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to announce some key dates for your 2025 calendar: 

• Welcome Event: Wednesday 19 February, 4.00pm – 6.00pm, Rowing Pavilion, Mt Pleasant 

• WA Chapter Summit: Thursday 22 – Friday 23 May, UWA Club, Nedlands 

As we close out the year, I hope you find time to rest and recharge. Celebrate the successes, learn from the challenges, and enter 2025 with a clear mind and refreshed perspective. Thank you for being part of this incredible community and for all you’ve contributed throughout the year. I look forward to seeing you at our events in 2025. 

Kind regards,

Laura Kendall
WA Chapter President, Educate Plus

Director of Community and Sustainability
Guildford Grammar School

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 WA Chapter community!

Welcome to our new WA members who joined this quarter:

Recognition of Excellence

WA CHAPTER Excellence Awards: Presented at the Educate Plus International Conference, held in Perth, Australia, 10-13 September 2024 

We are thrilled to celebrate the success of our members and their institutions. 

Fellow Awards:

Recognition and honouring of long-serving, high achieving, and senior members of the profession. Experienced and committed Educate Plus members are recognised for their contribution to the industry and the organisation by the awarding of a Fellowship. These special awards are made biennially.

Josephine Evans WA Chapter Committee Member Community Affairs and Alumni Co-Ordinator St George’s College	Laura Kendall WA Chapter President Director of Community and Sustainability Guildford Grammar School

Institution Awards:

• Admissions Campaign: Finalist | Wesley College, WA
• Admissions Event: Finalist | Wesley College, WA
• Alumni or Community Engagement Campaign: Winner | St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls, WA
• Alumni or Community Engagement Publication or Collateral: Finalist | Penrhos College, WA
• Alumni or Community Engagement Publication or Collateral: Finalist | Wesley College, WA
• Alumni or Community Engagement on a Shoestring: Finalist | Edith Cowan University, WA
• Fundraising Annual Giving – Traditional Giving Appeal: Finalist | St Mary’s Anglican School for Girls, WA
• Fundraising Annual Giving – Traditional Giving Appeal: Finalist | Wesley College, WA
• Marketing & Communications Campaign: Finalist | Wesley College, WA
• Team Award: Winner | Welsey College, WA (Video Link)

2025 WA Summit – Registration Now Open!

The Educate Plus WA Chapter is thrilled to invite you to our 2025 Summit taking place on Thursday 22 & Friday 23 May at The University Club of Western Australia for the Make Tomorrow Chapter Summit, a two-day professional development opportunity that will bring together Advancement Practitioners from across Western Australia, in Tertiary Institutions, Residential Colleges and Schools, all dedicated to shaping the future together. 

The Summit, with sessions in Admissions, Alumni & Community Engagement, Fundraising, Marketing & Communications, Leadership and People & Culture, will be more than just a learning experience—it will also be an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and share insights with professionals who, like you, are passionate about building a better tomorrow.

Through these engaging sessions, meaningful conversations, and shared ideas, you’ll gain the tools and inspiration to create the future you envision, supported by the collective wisdom and energy of the WA Chapter community. 

Don’t miss this opportunity … Let’s Make Tomorrow —together.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 22 and Friday 23 May 2025
Time: 2 Full-Day Program (with Sundowner Networking Drinks on Thursday evening)
Venue: The University Club of Western Australia, The University of Western Australia, M800, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia 6009

Program:  
The WA Chapter Committee are busy working on the program which will be available early 2025 and will include content for Schools, Tertiary Institutions and Residential Colleges.

Theme:
The theme of this year’s Summit is MAKE TOMORROW, Creating the future together  

‘The possibilities of tomorrow are infinite, and with engaging sessions ranging from advancing technology to fostering human connection, you’ll gain the tools and inspiration at the Summits to help create the future you envision, supported by the collective wisdom and energy of your local Chapter community.’

We hope you use this opportunity to connect and collaborate with your peers across WA and Make Tomorrow!

Cost:
Full Summit Registration: This includes the 2 Full-Day Summit with all catering (both days) and Networking drinks on 22 May

• Early Bird Tickets are available through until Friday 11 April 2025
• For our Asian Delegates, registration fees are in Australian dollars and GST is not payable.

• Thursday Registration includes Day Catering and Networking Drinks
• Friday Registration includes the Day Catering

To Register:

Register Here / More Info | WA Summit

2025 Welcome Event – Save the Date!

You are invited …

Welcome in the 2025 school year with your Advancement colleagues at independent schools and tertiary institutions across WA. What better venue on a summer evening than overlooking the Swan River?

Event Details

Date: Wednesday 19 February
Time: 4.00pm – 6.00pm
Place: The Rowing Pavilion, Mount Pleasant
Cost:

Registration details coming next week!

Take Your Career to the Next Level – Advancement Practitioner Training

Empower yourself for success!

The Advancement Practitioner Training (APT) Program is coming to Adelaide in March 2025!

The APT program is an outstanding opportunity to build your confidence, expand your expertise, and make a meaningful impact at your institution while advancing your career.

Whether you’re new to the field or an intermediate-level practitioner, APT provides the foundational skills, tools, and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving Advancement landscape. Led by experienced practitioners and consultants, this training offers practical strategies and invaluable insights that will keep you updated with the latest industry trends.

Why Register for the Advancement Practitioner Training?

• Enhance your professional credibility and demonstrate your commitment to Advancement.
• Elevate career opportunities and gain a competitive edge for promotions.
• Prepare for greater responsibilities with hands-on knowledge and skills.
• Expand your network with peers across Australasia, building connections that support your growth.
• Refine your expertise and stay current with best practices.
• Celebrate your achievements and strengthen your professional profile.

Advancement Practitioner Training Details

Dates: Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 March
Times: 2 Full Days Training (4 Programs, run concurrently)
Venue: Stamford Grand Adelaide

There are 4 courses, each running concurrently:

• Admissions
• Alumni & Community Relations
• Fundraising
• Marketing & Communications

Don’t miss this chance to invest in your future—register for the APT Program (Adelaide 2025) and empower yourself for success in Advancement!

For payment information and course outlines (and to Register!), click below:

Register Here / More Info | Advancement Practitioner Training

That’s a Wrap …

Bowls, Business and Banter 

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our end-of-year event at the Mosman Park Bowling Club! While the weather kept us on our toes, it didn’t dampen the spirit of the day. We had productive discussions in our SIGs, successfully confirmed the minutes of the short AGM, and celebrated the approval of the 2025 WA Committee.

Between the rain showers, we managed to enjoy a quick bowl and some wonderful networking over delicious nibbles and drinks.

We know this time of year can be incredibly busy and appreciate everyone who made the effort to attend. We’re already exploring ways to make next year’s event even more convenient and enjoyable for all.

Design SIG: Elevate your Design Stratgey 

Thank you to long-time partner Scott Print for hosting an interesting and informative tour of their premises in October. Over 25 marketing practitioners, designers, publications professionals and community relations staff attended from a variety of schools and universities. 

Ben Brennan from Scotts showed us the print process but also heaps of new features, print techniques and treatments. It was great to learn what’s ‘hot’ right now and how it’s possible to differentiate from other businesses. 

Take away: yes, budgets help, but, ultimately, it’s about the brains! How can you come up with something innovative? The sky is the limit! 

The Value of End-of-Year and Start-of-Year Events

This article was contributed by Jess Ford | Event Manager | All Saints’ College

End-of-year events are a wonderful way to bring the community together as the school year concludes. These gatherings provide an opportunity to reflect on the year that has passed and build anticipation for the year ahead. By fostering strong connections and a sense of belonging, such events help families look forward to the next chapter. Similarly, start-of-year events can set the tone for a productive and engaging school year, blending informational sessions to equip families with the necessary details and social opportunities to nurture relationships. 

Whether planning an end-of-year celebration or a kick-off event, it’s essential to consider the target audience—students, parents, staff—and tailor the experience to their needs. Life is busy, so making the event meaningful and worth attending is key. Ask yourself: What is the purpose of the event? What do we want attendees to walk away knowing or feeling? Communicating these intentions clearly ensures that expectations align. 

The Components of a Great Event 

What makes an event successful often depends on the perspectives of those attending, participating, and organising. For me, a successful event fosters connection—whether between teaching staff, peers, or parents. People need to feel a sense of belonging to fully engage with the school community. 

Creating opportunities for connection might involve adding a social element, such as drinks after an information session, or activities for students that allow parents to mingle with each other and with staff. These efforts help parents feel more integrated into the school’s culture and give students the chance to connect with their peers and teachers. A connected community thrives when its members are actively engaged and invested. 

Planning Tips for Your Next Event 

Here are a few key considerations when organising an event: 

• Encourage Engagement: How can you create moments for guests to connect and participate? 
• Communicate Clearly: Ensure your invitations and reminders effectively convey the event’s purpose and details. 
• Enhance Comfort and Appreciation: What small touches—like refreshments or welcoming gestures—can make guests feel valued? 

Measuring Success 

Reflecting on an event’s success can sometimes reveal its impact only in the long term. However, there are immediate ways to gauge whether the effort was worthwhile: 

• Engagement and Body Language: Observe the interactions and energy among attendees. Are they connecting, smiling, and actively participating? 
• Presenter Feedback: If there are speakers, ask for their insights. Did they feel their message resonated with the audience? 
• Practical Outcomes: For informational sessions, success might show later in reduced parent inquiries—indicating that key messages were effectively delivered. 

Ultimately, the goal of end-of-year and start-of-year events is to strengthen the bond between families, staff, and students. By creating meaningful opportunities for connection and ensuring that attendees leave feeling informed and valued, schools can foster a thriving, engaged community. Structuring the event calendar to include a balanced mix of informational sessions and social gatherings helps keep everyone engaged and connected throughout the year.  

Jess Ford
Events Manager
All Saints’ College

Jess is an experienced events and project management professional with over a decade of experience spanning hospitality, live entertainment, not-for-profit and education. Currently employed as the Events Manager at All Saints’ College, Jess is passionate about working collaboratively with stakeholders to celebrate a strong sense of community.

The Benefits of Quality School Photography

This article was supplied by WA Chapter Partner, Fotoworks 

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to think that mobile phones or hobbyists can replace professional photographers. However, there’s a big difference between a smartphone photo and a professional school portrait. It’s not just about quality but also the care and expertise behind the entire process. 

The Value of Expertise and Professionalism 

One of the biggest advantages of hiring a quality school photography company is their experience in working with children and schools. Professional photographers know how to engage students, making them feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. This creates natural expressions and genuine smiles, which are often hard to capture in rushed, casual snapshots. Additionally, a professional company understands the school environment, working efficiently to minimise disruption while still producing exceptional images. This level of professionalism ensures a smooth process for both staff and students. 

Image quality 

Professional school photographers bring experience, top-notch equipment, and an understanding of how to capture students at their best. While convenient, smartphones can’t match the precision and attention to detail that professional cameras and lenses provide. Lighting, composition and posing are all carefully managed to present each child beautifully. Professional photography companies employ skilled technicians who meticulously colour-correct images and ensure each subject is expertly framed. This attention to detail not only creates a well-structured image but also ensures consistency across a class, a year level and the entire school. Quality control measures across various departments ensure that every photo meets high standards before it is sent to print. This collaborative effort results in a flawless image that truly reflects the student and the school. 

The Prints 

The final physical prints are a true testament to quality. Professional school photography companies use premium paper and advanced printing techniques, producing images that are designed to last for decades. In contrast, mobile phone photos or quick prints from chain stores often fall short in both durability and clarity. From the richness of the paper to the vividness of the colours, every detail is crafted to deliver an exceptional product that families and schools can cherish for years to come. 

Ultimately, professional school photography delivers expertise, quality control and meticulous attention to detail. Each image reflects the collaborative efforts of skilled professionals to preserve school memories beautifully. 

Fotoworks is one of those professional school photography companies that manage the whole process internally. Fotoworks has been proudly supporting school communities across Western Australia, from Esperance to Kununurra and everywhere in between, for over 40 years. This long-standing commitment to Western Australian schools is built on a foundation of trust, quality and care. 

Let’s Meet a Chapter Member

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 Georgia Allen | Head of Philanthropy, Guildford Grammar School | WA Chapter Secretary

1.How long have you been in educational Advancement and what was your prior experience? 
About 15 years. I started off as a primary school teacher and have now worked across all areas of Advancement: Admissions, Community Relations, Marketing and now Philanthropy. 

2.What is your proudest achievement? 
The people I have met and the friendships formed is number 1 for me!! As well as reinvigorating an Alumni program and in particular a one-day symposium aptly named, ‘Empower Me, Inspire Her’, designed for all women in the school community in which I worked. Professionally, it is the thing I am most proud of. 

3.What is your biggest challenge?
Wearing too many hats has been challenging yet also exciting. With diversity brings creativity and interest, and certainly not boredom! At times though it has felt like I was spread too thin. I am now enjoying a deeper focus, still with lots of diversity but perhaps in a more honed way.   

4.What is the mMost impactful book or podcast you’ve consumed recently?
I mostly read for enjoyment – can’t go past a Liane Moriarty, Jane Harper or Dervla McTiernan. I do go through stages of podcasts like The Imperfects, All in the Mind, Lives Less Ordinary, and Fundraising is Beautiful! I vow to do more of this, especially in a new role where this is so much to learn. 

5.What are three tips that you for new members and/or those new to Advancement. 

• Get out from behind your desk – chat to people and build connections. Share and collaborate as much as you can. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. 
• Always keep asking the ‘why’: just because it is, doesn’t mean it should be! 

 6.What do you find most valuable in being a member of Educate Plus? 

I don’t know where I would be, professionally, without Educate Plus. With a background in teaching, I have always been passionate about education. Attending SIGs, Summits and Conferences has opened my eyes to so much in the world of Advancement. I have learnt so much from so many experts and developed skills I never knew existed. I credit Educate Plus for so much of my career. 

Thank you Georgia Allen – it has been wonderful getting to know you!

Thank You to our Valued Partners

Thank You to our WA Chapter Partner

Thank You to our WA Chapter Promo and Event Partner

Thank You to our Educate Plus Strategic Partners

How Technology, Policies and Processes Can Assist with Waitlists

This article was provided by Digistorm | 2024 Strategic Partner

Managing ever-growing waitlists has become one of the most significant challenges facing K-12 admissions teams across Australia. With parents applying at multiple schools and expecting more than ever from each of them, the independent school admissions environment has become increasingly frantic with frequent emotionally charged conversations with families. Although there’s no quick-fix solution, managers can lean into technology, policies and processes to help lessen the strain and support their teams.

The Challenges

Growing Waitlists

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, waitlists were not a major concern for most schools. In the years since, the K-12 landscape has changed dramatically, and most schools now face a waitlist issue of some sort. For some schools, long waitlists apply at every year level, whereas for others, waitlists only apply at peak entry years such as Kindergarten or Year Seven. In other instances, there’s an issue with waitlisting specific to one gender, leaving schools with a gap or imbalance.

Higher Expectations from Parents

In Digistorm’s 2023/24 State of Admissions Report, data showed that 74% of schools had felt an increase in contact and communication with future families. When asked how dramatic the increase in communication felt on a scale of 100, schools ranked it an average of 94.

Parents today are more proactive during the admissions process, often placing their children on multiple waitlists and weighing up the decision with a keen eye. Higher expectations are putting pressure on admissions teams in various ways, most notably the volume of communication. Compounding this stress is the fact that the average size of an admissions team has remained unchanged, with 62% of schools reporting that just 1 or 2 people handle their school’s admissions. This is putting additional pressure on already stretched team members.

Tougher Conversations

Admissions teams — who could previously accommodate all applicants — now find themselves in the difficult position of having to turn families away. These conversations are emotionally charged, as parents are deeply invested in their children’s education and have often waited years in hope of a positive outcome.

The Solutions

Strong Enrolment Policies and Transparent Processes

A strong enrolment policy is essential for any school managing a waitlist. Every decision should be guided by this policy, and it should be clearly visible and accessible. This transparency helps manage parents’ expectations from the outset and avoids any surprises down the track.

Being open about your admissions process, timelines and what parents can expect is crucial for keeping families happy. This can be achieved through comprehensive FAQ documents on your website and using tools like Digistorm Funnel to send automated reminders and updates to parents. This will also lessen workloads by reducing the number of questions coming in.

Training for Difficult Conversations

Equip your admissions team with the skills to handle tough conversations empathetically. In larger teams, establish a consistent approach to these discussions so that everyone is on the same page. For smaller teams or solo admissions officers, building a network with other schools can provide valuable support and spark ideas.

Utilising Technology to Find Better Fit Families

Tools like Digistorm Funnel can help schools identify the best-fit families through lead scoring. This involves assigning points based on criteria important to the school, such as religious affiliation, siblings enrolled or alumni connections. This method streamlines the selection process, ensuring that the top candidates are prioritised. You may even be able to move some families off your waitlist sooner.

Moving Forward

Managing Waitlists is undoubtedly challenging, especially given how emotionally involved most parents are in the school decision. By implementing clear policies, maintaining transparency, training staff for difficult conversations and leveraging technology, schools can navigate these challenges more effectively. This approach not only helps manage parent expectations but also ensures a smoother admissions process for all involved.

The Flaws Inherent in Fundraising Events

The following two articles were sourced from the recent LinkedIn posts by Jim Langley of Langley Innovations

ARTICLE ONE

The Flaws Inherent in Fundraising Events

The most successful fundraising comes from iterative, interpersonal discussion; no one-time event will ever achieve as much as deliberate dialogue in optimising the giving potential of any prospect 
 
Many events develop their own following – golf tournaments are more likely to draw those more interested in playing 18 than in helping an at-risk teen; galas have a stronger probability of attracting those more interested in showcasing gowns than in coping with Downs. 

• Sponsors fill the tables or foursomes they buy with their constituents not yours 
• Alcoholic drinks do not deepen altruistic aspirations or make audiences more attentive; messages get lost or not fully absorbed into the bloodstream. 

Five years ago, Emily Haynes of the Chronicle of Philanthropy wrote, “Charities don’t understand what makes donors give. A new study finds many charities(59%) think live events matter, but few donors(18%) say they are ever inspired to give because they attend galas, lunches, and other gatherings.” 
 
That was five years ago. That was before COVID. I suspect notably fewer donors today are inspired to give by events.  
 
Therefore: 

• Don’t use events to raise money from causal observers, use them curate the conscientious and cultivate those with shared convictions 
•  Don’t provide expensive entertainment, offer substantive, soul-moving experiences that money can’t buy 

•  Don’t rent fancy offsite facilities, bring your donors onsite and inside – grittiness can be more moving than prettiness 

•  Don’t tell them about your mission, show them how you are fulfilling it 

• Don’t just present, discuss 

ARTICLE 2

A Fundraiser’s First Obligation …

It is to philanthropy itself. 
 
All ethical fundraisers and fundraising organisations must commit themselves, at bare minimum, to do no harm to philanthropy. At best, they must commit to engaging in practices that reinforce, renew and reignite the philanthropic spirit.  

Harm is done to philanthropy when organisations: 

•  Over-promise and under-deliver on promises made to donors 
•  Fail to spend money donated for current use in a timely way 
•  Don’t honor and preserve donor intent 
•  Prove themselves incapable of relating money given to specific sustainable societal outcomes 
•  Pursue fundraising goals that are not tied to the betterment of those their missions call them to serve or self-aggrandizing goals that are pulled out of the air to simply set records or to raise more than other organizations they wish to be seen as superior to.  

When fundraising is put in pursuit of the false, egotistical, greedy or poorly thought out, it harms philanthropy by leaving the philanthropic dissatisfied if not disillusioned, wondering what difference they have made and whether they should give as generously as they once did or if they should give at all.  
 
Some might argue that the fundraiser’s first obligation is to the organisation – but the wisest of fundraisers understand that the best way to protect the credibility of the organisation and its future fundraising potential is put the protection, preservation and perpetuation of philanthropy above all else. 

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.