Report from School Council

Report from School Council

The School Council has met three times since the last report – on 6 June, 1 August and 5 September. The School Council comprises representatives of the School Executive, teachers, parents, students and the community.

In June, Council welcomed the incoming Principal, Juliette McMurray, who was in attendance. The meeting considered the School Plan, which has three strategic directions:
1.   Excellent Teaching, Effective Learning
2.   Inclusive, Positive School Culture
3.   Engaging Community
The Plan is designed to focus on key initiatives undertaken by the school rather than covering all school priorities. It will incorporate targets and milestones for measuring progress. Copies of the School Plan are available on the school website. Other matters covered in June include progress on plans to refurbish the school, the introduction of cadets at the school, Year 12 references, planning for Fort Fest and the SRC’s Feedback Friday.

In August, Council and the new Principal discussed the role of the School Council. Council’s constitution will be updated to reflect changes in emphasis and Departmental policy. Ways of canvassing the views of parents were also debated, including online surveys. The Principal is very keen to hear from all sections of the school community about their priorities for the school. Other matters considered include the selective schooling review, the refurbishment program, and the names of school houses. Executive vacancies exist for a Deputy Principal and Head Teacher, Maths, with recruitment planned by the end of Term 3. Organisers were congratulated on the success of Fort Fest.

In September, Council received updates on the School Plan, proposed amendments to Council’s constitution, surveys of the school community (including the upcoming Tell Them From Me survey), and timelines for some of the school’s refurbishment projects. Findings from the recent review of the Languages Faculty were presented. The review was very positive, while also noting the declining numbers of students studying languages at Fort St. Council reiterated its support for the aim of offering as wide a range of courses to students as possible, even when classes are small. Reports were also received on the history of school houses at Fort Street, and on recent showcases and special days, including Multicultural Day.

At all Council meetings, members are advised of some of the many successes of Fort St students. Council also receives reports from the School Principal, P&C, students, the Fortians Union and the Fort Street Foundation.

Council will consider a new Constitution at is November meeting, and will examine the results of the Tell Them From Me survey in December.

Dr Kathy Esson
Chair