2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Ltd ABN 88 662 995 577

John Paul College

Front cover: Groves Christian College St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School

Contents By the Numbers 2 Chair’s Report 4 Executive Director’s Report 8 ISQ Board and Committees 12 Independent Schools Advocacy, Research and Representation 14 Education Services 23 Queensland is the peak Governance and School Services 26 body representing Organisational Capability 29 Queensland’s independent Membership 30 schooling sector. Alliance Partners 34 Our 203 member schools ISQ Secretariat 36 are a vital part of the state’s education system. Together, these schools educate more than 120,000 students, or 15 percent of Queensland school enrolments.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 1 By the Numbers MEMBER SCHOOLS 15% of Queensland school enrolments 203 including nearly 20% of secondary enrolments 1 112 schools with approved Kindy 2 3 programs

78 schools with full fee paying overseas students

188 schools with Indigenous students

181 schools educated students with disability

35 schools offeredboarding

Cairns 114 schools with English as a Second Language or Dialect students

7 schools offered Townsville distance education

Schools located 120,911 across 37 local government areas

students enrolled Mackay 117,880 at 198 independent schools 3,031 at 5 Catholic schools 13 180 9 girls only schools offered boys only schools co-ed schooling schools Rockhampton

168 149 schools schools offered Bundaberg offered Prep primary & secondary

Toowoomba Brisbane

Warwick Data Source: 2016 Non-State School Census (State) February Collection

2 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Flagship programs in 2016:

Teaching and Learning Self-Improving Our Schools  Governance Great Teachers in Academy Schools – Our Future Services Independent Schools 36% of member  45% of member Commissioned 39% of schools  97% of member schools participated in schools participated. 2 major education participated. schools were funded Coaching Partnerships research papers. under this program. and Research in Schools.

42 schools and 50 coaches participated in Coaching Partnernships. 118 teachers and leaders from 79 schools participated in Governance Services. 36 schools participated in Research in Schools.

90 schools, including 13 new schools, were supported 936 teachers participated in the through Self-Improving Schools. Professional Growth Tool Survey.

Professional learning in 2016:

12

JUNE 9 3

6

324 events 16,000 times school 1,700 hours of 150 wifi devices held at ISQ’s Professional staff engaged with ISQ’s professional simultaneously connected Learning Centre. professional learning events development to the PLC wireless External and virtual. and Connect&Learn. delivered. network.

Member engagement in 2016:

38 Weekly eMailing updates, 4 video and 13 face-to-face 3 Catalyst member ISQ staff made more 39 Weekly Information Strategic Briefings from the magazines produced in than 470 visits to Updates and 10 Briefings Executive Director. digital and interactive 152 schools, including research papers. format. 24 new principals.

Media coverage in 2016:

NEWS

68 media releases More than 420 media 911 tweets and retweets 74 member schools including 45 statewide mentions, 6 published to a growing base of 2,308 received media/marketing and 23 regional. opinion articles and followers. Corporate LinkedIn promotion or support. 1 Letter to the Editor. followers growing to 677.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 3 Chair’s Report

“We need diversity of Diversity is the hallmark of The assessment confirmed that the Queensland’s independent advantages of making the change thought in the world to schooling sector. It is also one of included: the ability to deliver services, such as teaching and learning or face the new challenges.” its key strengths. Simultaneously governance programs, to jurisdictions championing and safeguarding outside Queensland; reduction in the Tim Berners-Lee, this diversity is at the heart of the duplication of reporting obligations; British computer scientist who enhanced governance of ISQ; and invented the World Wide Web work performed by Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) in CLG being the vehicle preferred by support of member schools. government regulators. On the basis of this expert advice, ISQ’s 2016 Annual Report, which and having considered ISQ’s current I am pleased to present on behalf and future strategic objectives, the of the Board of Directors (the Board recommended the transition in Board), highlights the breadth status to the membership at the May and depth of services offered to 2016 Annual General Meeting. The member schools and the wide membership voted and approved the change in incorporation status. While range of activities undertaken by Independent Schools Queensland ISQ during 2016. Ltd is the new legal entity, the organisation’s registered trading name continues to be Independent Schools Responding to Queensland. The change has had no Growth direct impact on staff or the delivery of services to member schools. There ISQ has experienced significant growth, have been some amendments to Board particularly over the past five years, titles, as you will see in this report, and in the breadth and complexity of appointment processes. However, the services it offers member schools. To three-year tenure of directors remains ensure ISQ’s operating framework and the same, as does the retirement of structure were optimal for governing one-third of directors each year. and delivering these expanded functions, the Board undertook an analysis of the current regulatory environment and the benefits associated with changing ISQ’s status from an Incorporated Association under Queensland legislation to a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) under the Australian Corporations Act.

4 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Diversity and require new ideas and approaches I would like to make particular mention to be considered to grow the sector. of the 100 percent satisfaction rating Choice ISQ has been proactively engaged at principals gave to ISQ staff for their the strategic level with the intent to “responsiveness to members’ needs and ISQ’s strategic mission includes the address these matters and is working easiness to engage”. This is testament promotion, support and development on an issues paper which will be to the strong customer-centred culture of independent schooling in released in 2017. embraced by ISQ staff and reflects the Queensland. In 2016, membership strong cultural capital within the ISQ grew to 203 schools which included staff with 85 percent of staff rating 100 percent membership from Vote of Confidence job satisfaction as high to very high. 198 independent schools, and five I congratulate David Robertson and his Catholic schools. In total, member in ISQ team for fostering this culture for the schools enrolled 120,911 students from Confidence and uptake of ISQ services benefit of all stakeholders. Prep to Year 12 in 2016. Queensland’s continued in 2016 with business areas independent schooling sector expanding and refining their services in This was the fifth Member Satisfaction continues to grow in school and line with member and Board feedback. Survey commissioned by ISQ since student numbers, albeit at a slower rate Membership satisfaction with ISQ 2002. As an organisation committed to than previous years, while maintaining services remains extremely high with growth and development in all areas of its relative overall share of student principals surveyed giving ISQ an its operations, ISQ will use the valuable enrolments at about 15 percent almost perfect overall satisfaction rating member feedback and insights statewide, including nearly 20 percent (99 percent). The 2016 membership to inform future service delivery of secondary enrolments. Enrolments of survey, which was undertaken by enhancements. particular groups of students grew at a an independent company, captured faster rate from 2015 to 2016, including the views of a representative The Board is the custodian of ISQ’s international students, students with sample of principals of large and success. A recent external review of the disability and Aboriginal and Torres small independent schools across Board’s performance was very positive, Strait Islander students. Queensland. The survey found: indicating a high-functioning Board. I am very pleased that this all-important Growth in new schools has also yy 100 percent of members surveyed positive and professional culture is shifted to more specialised smaller agreed that ISQ was well respected a common thread from the Board, schools, such as Special Assistance as the peak body for Queensland to management and to staff, with Schools catering for disengaged independent schools the ultimate beneficiaries being our young people, as well as colleges yy 95 percent agreed that ISQ was doing member schools and their students. which offer tailored services in a a good job representing the needs particular area, such as trade training. and interests of member schools Identifying and addressing the barriers yy 95 percent agreed that ISQ was to establishing new independent continually improving and making schools in Queensland has been a key changes for the better focus for ISQ in recent years. The high cost and lack of availability of new yy 95 percent also agreed that the land, particularly in growth corridors, services offered by ISQ are relevant to and the tight economic environment their school’s needs.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 5 Chair’s Report

Strategic Objectives member schools. In 2016, school staff on more than 140 federal, state and engaged in 324 in-person and virtual local boards, councils, advisory groups ISQ’s Strategic Plan guides the direction professional learning opportunities and and committees that are tasked with of the organisation and staff efforts events. These events were funded by advancing particular areas of school until the end of 2017, when a new plan member fees together with state and education, operations, regulation and will be developed and adopted. The federal government support. About reform. This representation ensured the current 2014-2017 plan outlines five 50 percent of the events, which ranged needs and interests of independent key areas for action. These are: from major forums, to workshops schools were well represented and yy Leading Advocacy and practical short courses, were gave ISQ involvement in and advance yy Enhancing Professional Services held at ISQ’s Professional Learning notice of any significant reform Centre. These professional learning proposals or changes which could be yy Engaging Members opportunities, many of which were communicated to member schools. yy Sustaining Growth led by respected state, national and yy Building Organisational Capacity international experts, were delivered ISQ’s advocacy work stepped up at the in a variety of ways with an increasing national level in 2016 when a double A detailed range of work programs number provided online. ISQ staff dissolution federal election was called and projects sit under each of these themselves were also invited to speak for 2 July. ISQ worked closely with areas as well as almost 50 targets which at local, national and international the Independent Schools Council of provide benchmarks against which the events on the innovative nature of Australia (ISCA), including through organisation assesses its progress and their work with member schools and my director position on the ISCA success. At its December meeting, the its impact. Board, and other independent school Board reviewed progress towards the associations from across the country, targets and I’m pleased to report that The breadth of expertise and support to ensure the interests of independent the majority are on track, ahead of time available through ISQ continues to schools were well represented and or have already been achieved. strengthen each year. The volume of acknowledged by all parties during the schools seeking support with day- election campaign. to-day school operations such as Operating Results regulatory and financial compliance The Turnbull Government retained government with Federal Education The Strategic Plan not only guides and employment contracts is also and Training Minister Simon ISQ’s investment of human capital in increasing in line with the deepening Birmingham maintaining ministerial key areas, but also its financial capital. complexity and ongoing changes in responsibility for school education. Sound financial stewardship is central these areas. In his public statements, Minister to effective and strong organisational Birmingham foreshadowed potential governance. ISQ maintained its strong changes to the way schools are funded fiscal record in 2016. From total Strong Voice for by the Australian Government from turnover (including the management Independent 2018. With the majority of independent of Australian and Queensland school public funding flowing from the Government Programs) of $58 million, Schools Federal Government, ISQ and ISCA have the organisation’s surplus for the year to Central to the work of ISQ is its role as been advocating strongly on behalf 31 December 2016 was $363,000. ISQ is a vocal and tireless advocate for the of member schools for a long-term, exempt from paying income tax. independent school sector, particularly sustainable, equitable and transparent in relation to Queensland and funding model that reflects the real Strong Uptake of Australian Government funding and costs of schooling and respects the regulatory arrangements that impact autonomy of independent schools. Services member school operations, education programs and communities. In May 2017, Prime Minister Malcolm ISQ’s delivery of current and relevant Turnbull and Minister Birmingham high quality professional learning ISQ maintained its strong voice and announced the Quality Schools reform across its full breadth of service seat at the table of key education policy package which centres on the creation areas remains highly valued by groups with ISQ representatives sitting

6 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland of a national, needs-based funding staff for their sound management and an independent school, it is imperative model that treats all students equitably, expertise in administering Queensland that schools engage with these reforms regardless of the state they live in, or and Australian Government capital and how they will translate to the the school they attend. The Australian funds provided to the independent provision of senior schooling programs Government committed an additional sector. I would also like to take this to students and families. $2.2 billion over the next four years on opportunity to pay tribute to Dr Grant top of the extra $1.2 billion announced Watson, BGA General Manager, In my sixth year as Board Chair (formerly in the 2016 Federal Budget. ISQ Company Secretary and Program President) I continue to marvel at will work closely with ISCA and the Manager of the Commonwealth Capital the energy, innovation, creativity, Australian Government on how the Grants Program, who announced his compassion and expertise on show in funding will flow to individual schools retirement, which took effect from early our member schools. There is nothing under the new model. ISQ also looks 2017. Dr Watson committed 19 years more uplifting than seeing our schools forward to contributing to the new of his professional career to building in action and the positive influence Review to Achieve Educational Excellence and enhancing the work of the BGA. they have on the education of young in Australian Schools being led by David We thank him for his contribution and Queenslanders. ISQ will continue to Gonski AM. dedication and wish him well for the inform, lead, challenge and support future and also wish Adrian Wiles every member schools as they go about their success in the BGA General Manager nation-shaping work with our next Acknowledgements role from 2017. generation of leaders, innovators and 21st century workers. I urge you to take ISQ is a progressive organisation the time to read this report to gain which strives at every opportunity an insight into ISQ and reflect on its to deliver the most current, relevant 2017 Priorities important work. and impactful services to member The year ahead will be significant schools. I would sincerely like to thank for independent schools as further In closing, I want to thank you, our the Board, including the Education details of the new federal schools members, for your ongoing support Advisory Sub-Committee (Chair Lynne funding model and the new individual of ISQ. Doneley, previously Adrian Wiles) and entitlements of schools are released. Finance Committee (Chair Michael ISQ will work closely with member Willis) members, for their valuable schools to support them during this contribution in 2016. transition process. In the media, school John Somerset funding stories often unfairly focus on a Chair, Board of Directors I would also like to recognise ISQ small selection of independent schools. Independent Schools Queensland Executive Director David Robertson, What is not published is the fact that the senior leadership team, and all staff 76 percent of high-income families for their professionalism, dedication enrol their children in non-independent and tireless efforts to support member schools. Because of our independence, schools in 2016. ISQ continues to it is easy, but highly inequitable, to go from strength to strength as a focus funding attention on individually respected champion of independent identifiable independent schools. schooling on the state and national stages and as a preferred provider At the state level, ISQ’s advocacy of tailored high quality services to work in 2017 will focus on the member schools. next Queensland election which commentators are tipping will take ISQ is also the sole member of the place in late 2017, but must be held by Queensland Independent Schools early 2018. Further preparation work Block Grant Authority (BGA), a will also continue on major reforms Company Limited by Guarantee. to Queensland’s senior schooling and I would like to thank company Chair, tertiary entrance system. With one in Dawn Lang, the BGA Board and all five high school students educated in

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 7 Executive Director’s Report

In 2016 Queensland’s independent Economic The report also quantified the schooling sector continued to significant annual recurrent and capital enrich the diversity of school Contribution of savings – $1 billion – independent schools provide to governments as offerings available to local families Independent well as the economic benefits that flow and to positively contribute to the Schools to the state – $263 million – from the economic and cultural lifeblood of enhanced academic performance of the state. While the intrinsic value and independent school students. contribution of independent schooling is well understood and accepted, The seminal report and regional there has never been any hard data modelling added a new dimension available that quantifies the economic to the dedicated advocacy work ISQ contribution independent schools undertook on behalf of independent make to the state. schools at the local, state and national levels in 2016 and was used extensively In 2016, ISQ addressed this critical during ISQ’s advocacy work during the data gap by commissioning, as part federal election. of its flagship Our Schools – Our Future research program, an in-depth economic analysis that calculated for “This report confirms that the first time the value independent independent schools are schools add to the state and local economies. not only key institutions

The report, Economic Significance of of learning, but also Independent Schools to the Queensland important generators of Economy, by global consultancy firm AEC Group, revealed that in 2014 economic activity and independent schools contributed: $4.1 billion to the Queensland employment at a state economy; added $2.4 billion in and local level.” employee wages and salaries; and supported 31,000 full-time jobs, Kate Jones, which equates to one full-time job Queensland Education Minister for every 3.7 students enrolled at independent schools.

8 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland National and State schools; additional capital funding one of a number of legislative changes for disadvantaged non-government that impacted education. On the issue Policy Priorities schools; and a new national review of future school planning, ISQ and by David Gonski AM into how this the Queensland Catholic Education ISQ’s advocacy work on behalf of new funding can be leveraged to Commission (QCEC) achieved a member schools intensified during achieve the greatest impact on student positive change to the Planning Bill 2016 as the nation went to the polls outcomes. ISQ will continue to work 2016, which was passed with bi- to choose its next government and closely with ISCA and the Australian partisan support in State Parliament. determine the makeup of the 45th Government on how the new funding As a result of this joint advocacy, the Parliament of Australia. model will directly impact member new Act will deliver a more consistent It was unsurprising that the schools. ISQ will keep members planning approach to state and non- performance of Australia’s education updated on further details as they are state schools. I expect the new Act, system and how schools are funded announced and what they mean for which is due to commence in July featured strongly in political and public schools and their communities. 2017, will support private investment debates before, during and after the in new independent schools because At the state level, school education eight-week campaign. After a close it removes some infrastructure cost policy continued on a more stable result, the Turnbull Government was imposts that had only been borne footing with the Queensland returned to government. However, the by the non-state school sector, and Government consulting with key model to distribute school funding will also deliver greater consistency stakeholders, including ISQ, on a from 2018 was not resolved. Instead, in school planning rules for state and number of significant issues. The most Federal Education and Training Minister non-state schools. Reducing obstacles high profile being the final design of Simon Birmingham committed to to new independent schooling services Queensland’s new senior schooling creating a single national system entering the market and providing and tertiary entrance systems and to replace the array of different expert advice to support these new its timeframe for implementation. In agreements that had been driving entrants in their investigation and October, Education Minister Kate Jones the distribution of federal funding development phases is a growing part announced the Government would to schools. ISQ and ISCA advocated of ISQ’s advocacy work. push out the commencement date of strongly and consistently over this the reforms by 12 months to ensure the period for the needs of member new system and schools were ready. schools. In May 2017, the Australian Evidence and The new system will now start with Government unveiled its new schools Year 11s in 2019. Minister Jones also Outcomes plan which comprised: additional confirmed the number and type of federal funding that will take total What happens inside the school gate, subjects that would contribute to the recurrent schools funding to $30.6 in classrooms, libraries, science labs calculation of the Australian Tertiary billion by 2027; a commitment to the and performing art centres, is what Admission Rank (ATAR) – which will original intent of the Gonski needs- education policy seeks to influence. replace the Overall Position (OP). based funding recommendations; a 10- The Australian Government’s Quality year transition plan that will eventually At the other end of schooling, 2016 saw Schools policy platform is firmly see the Commonwealth fund 80 legislation pass that would make Prep focused on what outcomes are being percent of the Schooling Resource the first compulsory year of schooling achieved by schools in a range of key Standard for all non-government in Queensland from 2017. This was policy areas. The platform also lifts

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 9 Executive Director’s Report

the bar of accountability on schools flagship programs continued to rise Acknowledgements and systems about what gains and in 2016, building on the success of improvements are being achieved with previous years: I would like to thank member schools the Australian Government’s significant yy 36 percent of member schools for their ongoing commitment to their funding investment. participated in the Teaching and students and staff, and to continually Learning Academy (Research in Schools challenging their practices in pursuit of Australia looks to large-scale reputable and Coaching Partnerships programs) ongoing improvement for the benefit international testing programs such of students. as the Organisation for Economic yy 45 percent in Self-Improving Schools Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) yy 39 percent in Governance Services I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Programme for International Student yy 97 percent of member schools were the Board, chaired by John Somerset, for Assessment (PISA) to assess the health funded under the Great Teachers in their confident and inspired leadership of the nation’s education system. The Independent Schools program. and guidance in 2016. results of the latest triennial testing I also express my thanks to ISQ staff, of students in reading, mathematics ISQ’s fifth flagship program, Our Schools whose level of commitment and and science were released in – Our Future saw the publication of dedication to the objectives of ISQ is December 2016. two pieces of research during 2016. The first being theEconomic Significance of exemplary. The service and support While the results showed a decline Independent Schools to the Queensland provided by staff to our member in Australia’s overall performance, Economy in March and a second paper, schools is exceptional, both in the independent school students as a Leading Curriculum Innovation: depth and range of activities as well cohort continued to achieve well above A discussion paper, in November. as their professionalism and expertise. both the Australian and OECD means. A sincere thanks for all that you do for When compared with other nations, Member fees and government funding independent schooling. Australian independent school students combined to support these and a raft of I look forward to working in partnership outperformed every country in reading other programs and services provided with the Board, ISQ staff and member and ranked second only to Singapore by ISQ including targeted initiatives schools during 2017, to advance in science. for students with disability, vocational education and training and Indigenous education policies that recognise These results demonstrate that education. The delivery of this important and value the contribution of the Australian and Queensland independent work continues to occur through a independent sector to Queensland schools are well positioned to respond to blend of face-to-face and virtual events schooling and that lift the outcomes of the Australian Government’s outcomes- and opportunities with independent all students in every part of the state. based policy reform agenda. school staff engaging more than 16,000 times in professional learning events All ISQ program areas and projects and Connect&Learn online courses David Robertson seek to enhance the knowledge, skills, and communities. Executive Director strategies and practices of schools Independent Schools Queensland and empower them to confidently ISQ is continuing to enhance its shape their school’s future; build board, collection and synthesis of data to principal and teaching capability better support and tailor services and and capacity; and most importantly advice for member schools. In 2016, ISQ improve outcomes for students at every staff transitioned to a new Relationship achievement level. Management System which will enhance ISQ’s ability to provide tailored ISQ’s flagship programs are grounded support and advice to schools. This in research and best practice, and are centralised system will continue to be refined through evaluation. Participating developed during 2017 which will also schools are required to rigorously see the launch of ISQ’s new website and evaluate their projects and document events system. their outcomes. School interest and uptake of ISQ

10 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Trinity Lutheran College

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 11 ISQ Board and Committees

ISQ Board

Board of Management Member Organisation & Position John Somerset (Chair) Saint Stephen’s College – Governing Body Representative Karen Spiller (Deputy Chair) St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School – Principal Michael Willis (Director and Chair, Finance Committee) St Patrick’s College Townsville – Representative Lynne Doneley (Director and Chair of Education Committee) Gulf Christian College – Governing Body Representative Richard Brown (Director) Toowoomba Christian College – Principal Yvonne Packbier (Director) Moreton Bay Birali Steiner School – Representative Steven Austen (Director) – elected in May 2016 Suncoast Christian College – Representative Richard Fairley (Director) Townsville Grammar School – Principal Jane Schmitt (Director) – elected in May 2016 Anglican Church Grammar School – Representative Leisa Harper (Director) Fraser Coast Anglican College – Principal Ros Curtis (Director) – elected in May 2016 St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School – Principal Geoff McLay (Director) West Moreton Anglican College – Principal Adrian Wiles (Director) – resigned in May 2016 St Peters Lutheran College – Head of College Ann Mitchell (Director) – resigned in May 2016 Trinity Lutheran College – Representative

ISQ Board Other ISQ ISQ’s Board met seven times during 2016 Committees to discuss strategic issues and identify and plan for emerging challenges and The Board also has two other standing opportunities. Directors are appointed committees – the Finance Committee for three-year terms, with one third of and the Remuneration and Nominations directors retiring each year. Committee. From time to time, the Board also establishes sub-committees to consider specific issues.

Education The Finance Committee comprises Committee Michael Willis (Chair), Geoff McLay, and Richard Brown. The Board appoints the Education Committee on an annual basis The Remuneration and Nominations following the Annual General Meeting Committee comprises John Somerset (AGM). The Committee is chaired by a (Chair), Karen Spiller (Deputy Chair) Board member. and Michael Willis (Chair, Finance Committee).

12 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Education Committee

Committee Member Organisation Adrian Wiles, Chair – resigned in May 2016 St Peters Lutheran College Lynne Doneley, Chair – May 2016 to present ISQ Board Representative Andrew Johnson Christian Schools Australia Anthony Mueller Faith Lutheran College, Redlands Craig Bassingthwaighte Somerset College David Bliss Lutheran Education Queensland Johannes Solymosi Victory College Linda Evans Fairholme College Mark Ash Suncoast Christian College Nigel Fairbairn Blackheath and Thornburgh College Peter Britton Ipswich Girls' Grammar School Phillip Moulds The Rockhampton Grammar School Ros Curtis St Margaret's Anglican Girls School Karen Dunshea Samford Valley Steiner School Daniel Pampuch Uniting Church Schools Commission Colin Minke Immanuel Lutheran College Gary Smith YMCA Vocational School James Lye Rockhampton Girls Grammar School Geoff Newton Hillbrook Anglican School Donna Anderson Canterbury College Bronwyn Dolling Pacific Lutheran College Gary O'Brien Cannon Hill Anglican College Julie Robinson John Paul College Cae Ashton The Glenleighden School Pep Wright Samford Valley Steiner School Kathy Bishop Clayfield College Tony Dosen Ipswich Grammar School Todd Langford Mueller College Renice Carter The Rockhampton Grammar School

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 13 Advocacy, Research and Representation

For nearly five decades ISQ has Australian Government ISQ continued to receive funding under been a vocal and passionate ISQ worked in close partnership with the Australian Government’s Students advocate for the interests and ISCA at the national level during 2016 First Support Fund for 29 activities in and early 2017 to advocate strongly areas including teacher quality, data needs of its member schools, collection and compliance systems, their staff, students and families, for independent schools as part of the Australian Government’s development Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and a promoter of the sector’s of a new federal schools funding Education and Languages Other Than commitment to excellence model. ISQ ensured the unique needs, English (LOTE). in education. interests and challenges faced by Queensland independent schools were well represented in funding discussions Media Leading Advocacy and submissions to the Australian ISQ continued to grow its relationship Providing a united and representative Government. ISQ also contributed a with media representatives and expand voice for the organisation’s 203 member Queensland perspective to national its use of digital and social media to schools which enrol 15 percent of the submissions by ISCA on policy issues provide a representative voice for the state’s school-age population, is central including the Productivity Commission’s independent schooling sector and to to ISQ’s mission and activities. Issues Paper on a National Education promote the benefits of an independent Evidence Base. education and the achievements of member schools. ISQ continued to Queensland Government ISQ undertook a range of advocacy provide strategic advice to member ISQ continued its liaison with the activities in the lead up to and during schools to support them in dealing with Queensland Government in 2016 the 2016 federal election campaign the media. ISQ was also sought out to attending regular Term meetings with including: take part in expert panels or provide the Education Minister and hosting yy creation and maintenance of a federal comment on media-generated forums a Parliamentary function attended election web page or campaigns. ISQ continued to enhance by most Parliamentarians and many yy creation of 30 federal electorate maps the integration of its various traditional member schools. and social media communication yy publication of an ISQ Federal Election channels to expand the reach of ISQ provided detailed input or Statement its key messages about education submissions on a range of state-based yy placement of 13 advertisements in diversity and parent choice and its policy issues including: suburban and regional newspapers positions on major education reforms yy Education and Other Legislation yy sourcing and upload of video and policy announcements. Priority Amendment Bill messages from the federal Education issues ISQ engaged in and promoted yy Review of Planning Legislation Minister and Opposition Education significantly during 2016 included: fair yy Redevelopment of QCAA Senior spokesperson and transparent federal funding during Syllabuses yy three election updates to member the federal election; the contribution of independent schools to the Queensland yy International Education and Training schools economy and regional economies; and Strategy to Advance Queensland yy letters to all candidates the unique role and needs of member 2016-2026 yy media releases schools in major reforms such as the yy Positive Futures: Apprenticeships and yy social media campaign with 61 tweets changes to senior secondary schooling Traineeships in Queensland generating 25,500 impressions which will take effect with Year 11 yy The new Advancing Aboriginal and yy creation of three diversity series students in 2019. Torres Strait Islander Education and brochures with school case Training – Action Plan for Education studies (Indigenous education, in Queensland students with disability and Special yy Education (Queensland College of Assistance Schools). Teachers) Amendment Bill.

14 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Townsville Grammar School

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 15 Advocacy, Research and Representation

World Teachers’ Day 2016

Friday 28 October Thank you for inspiring Queensland students.

Independent Education Union Queensland and Northern Territory Branch

During 2016 media activity resulted in: Resources were also provided to all Research yy more than 420 media mentions on TV, schools communications and marketing radio, print and online officers through Focus Area Updates and Campaigns a Connect&Learn Community. yy 74 member schools promoted or supported by ISQ Our Schools – Our Future yy 45 statewide media releases and 23 ISQ Logo Refresh and Our Schools – Our Future is an ISQ targeted/regionalised media releases New Website research based initiative designed to promote informed public policy In 2016, the ISQ logo was refreshed yy 2,308 Twitter followers and 911 tweets debate about schooling. Through following external advice from branding and retweets commissioned and internal research experts. This refinement to the logo yy 677 LinkedIn followers with Our Schools – Our Future explores included a minor font change and 63.5 percent senior level and above. trends and issues in key areas which realignment of text to provide more determine the nature and performance balance while retaining brand elements of our school education systems. Whilst Schools Marketing and and colours. Communications Forum the initiative has a particular focus on The re-development of the ISQ website the contribution of independent schools In June 2016 ISQ held its second Schools work began late 2016 following the to education provision and outcomes, Marketing and Communications Forum completion of the first phase of the it also examines a range of issues and due to the success of the inaugural Relationship Management System. trends relevant to the development Forum the previous year. The Forum The redeveloped website, which will and implementation of effective public was held to support staff in member focus on delivering an enhanced user policy for schooling. All reports are schools responsible for communications experience for members, is planned for provided to member schools and are and marketing who often perform launch mid-2017. available under the member area of these duties in addition to other jobs, the website. such as registrar. Two expert guest speakers presented at the Forum which World Teachers’ Day Campaign In March 2016 ISQ released the first ever covered topics including: “Riding the In 2016 ISQ participated in a joint, cross- analysis in Australia of the significant Social Media Tsunami”; “How is Your sector advertising campaign organised contribution independent schools make Enrolments Pipeline Looking?” and and coordinated by the Queensland to the economy. The report, Economic “Lifting the Lid on ISQ’s Treasure Chest Department of Education and Training Significance of Independent Schools to of Research”. There was also a school for World Teachers’ Day in October. The the Queensland Economy by the AEC case study on “Responding to Working joint campaign was undertaken in 2016 Group was a key piece of research Families”. The engagement and feedback following its successful inauguration commissioned as part of ISQ’s Our was extremely positive from attendees the previous year and included outdoor Schools – Our Future research program. with endorsement for this annual event. advertising, newspaper advertising AEC Group, a global consultancy Throughout the year ISQ provided and social media campaigns. Teachers group with expertise in economic continuous outreach, promotion and from all sectors, including a teacher and modelling, analysed and quantified support to 74 member schools in the student from an independent school, the contribution independent schools area of communications, marketing and appeared in the advertisements. make to Queensland in terms of their media issues management. contribution to Queensland Gross State Product (GSP), employment and household incomes, the savings they

16 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Queensland Education Minister Kate Jones at the 2016 ISQ Parliamentary function; Parent Engagement ISQ took part in a cross-sector advertising campaign to promote 2016 World Teachers’ Day; ISQ Executive Director David Robertson and Year 12 graduates from John Paul College were Queensland Independent interviewed by ABC Radio Brisbane ahead of the release of senior results; Federal Member for Ryan Jane Prentice launched the Economic Significance of Independent Schools Schools Parents Network to the Queensland Economy report at St Peters Lutheran College. The Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network (QISPN) continued deliver to governments and therefore yy ISQ obtained quotes from Education to build on its advocacy and parental taxpayers, and the economic value that Minister Kate Jones in support of engagement work during 2016 with flows from the enhanced education the independent sector which were the ongoing support of ISQ. Advocacy outcomes achieved by independent included in the ISQ media release work occurred primarily through QISPN’s representative roles on key education school students. yy video on report findings for ISQ working groups and regular meetings website (provided to metropolitan The conclusions of the AEC Group report with peak stakeholder bodies such as the TV stations). are telling. In 2013-2014 Queensland’s Queensland Curriculum and Assessment 190 independent schools: Leading Curriculum Innovation: Authority and the Queensland College of yy contributed $4.1 billion total to the A discussion paper was released in Teachers. QISPN also provided feedback Queensland economy (Direct & November 2016. This paper is not an on major state and federal education Indirect to GSP) ISQ policy statement on the curriculum. initiatives such as NAPLAN Online yy supported 31,000 full-time jobs Rather it is a paper that was developed and the Queensland senior secondary – that’s one full-time job for to generate and provoke discussion and assessment and tertiary entrance every 3.7 students enrolled at debate among policy makers, educators changes. This feedback was sourced independent schools and schools on the design and delivery from QISPN’s reference group, which is of the curriculum in Queensland. It comprised of parents from independent yy contributed $2.4 billion in employee deliberately poses provocative questions schools across Queensland. The wages and salaries about the explicit incorporation and reference group met via teleconference yy provided $1.02 billion in savings teaching of 21st century skills in four times in 2016. QISPN continued to to governments and taxpayers – the curriculum in Queensland and collaborate with other key parent groups, $804 million recurrent savings and challenges schools to reflect on and including P&Cs Qld and the Federation $218 million capital savings from consider their individual approaches of P&F Associations Queensland. All parent contributions within the context of the needs and representative parent groups are part yy enhanced educational outcomes expectations of their local communities. of the Joint Parent Council which also by independent school students, Some educators and schools may hold meets with the Queensland Education delivering $263 million extra to GSP. an opposing view to what has been Minister. QISPN continued to build its presented. The design and delivery of authoritative and informative online The following information was prepared the curriculum in independent schools presence through the publication of as part of the report release: is an individual school decision. This credible, timely and relevant information yy statewide report and infographic paper follows on from an ISQ Curriculum and advice for parents on its website and yy a series of 13 regional infographics Innovation forum and subsequent Facebook page. yy key findings summary document briefings and workshops for school and curriculum leaders during 2015 and 2016.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 17 Advocacy, Research and Representation

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School

In 2017 QISPN intends to further yy Endeavour Language Teachers yy Education Visa Consultative enhance and expand its resource hub Fellowship Project Advisory Committee (EVCC) of local, national and international Committee yy Executive Directors’ Council (EDCO) resources on the importance, role yy Helping Children with Autism yy Independent Schools Council of and impact of parent engagement Implementation Committee Australia (ISCA) Board in school education. This wealth of yy National Career Development expert resources will be made available yy MindMatters/KidsMatter Reference Working Group through a dedicated web hub to Committee member schools and their staff to yy National Schools Interoperability yy Science and Technology Education support them in continuing to build Program – Consultative Group Leveraging Relevance (STELR) Project productive and powerful relationships yy School Business Relationships Steering Committee with their students’ parents and broader yy Senior Policy Officers’ Forum yy Science by Doing National Reference parent communities. Humanities and Social Sciences Committee yy SIF AU Data Standards Working Group yy Supporting the Australian Curriculum Sector (NSIP) Online (SACOL) Program yy Transforming the Education Digital yy Transition to the Australian Curriculum Representation Supply Chain Advisory Committee Steering Group ISQ represented the interests of the yy Virtual Excursions Australia (VEA) yy Australian Government Department independent sector on more than Working Group of Education ESOS Under 18 Working 140 boards, councils, advisory groups yy YABA Steering Committee for Group and committees, including but not Constitution Education Fund Australia yy Australian Government Department limited to, the following list: (CEFA) of Education International Education Data Working Group National yy Foundation – Year 12 Curriculum Reference Group yy Australian Government Department Australian Government of Education International Education yy Education Services Australia USI Other National Stakeholders Group Expert Group yy AIS Industrial Relations Directors yy Department of Immigration and yy Online Assessment Working Group – Working Group Border Protection (DIBP) Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC) Project Managers Working Group yy AIS Students First Support Fund yy Online Assessment Working Group Working Group yy National Testing Working Group – Project Managers Working Group – yy AIS Working Together Group yy SIF AU Data Standards Working Group Privacy Sub-Group yy Autism Centre of Excellence yy Department of Immigration yy Respectful Relationships Education Advisory Group and Border Protection (DIBP) Industry Summit Working Group yy Broadband Enabled Education Skills yy Australian Early Development Census Services Project Steering Committee Reference Group yy Civics and Citizenship Education yy Australian School Science Information Stakeholder Forum Support for Teachers and Technicians (ASSIST)

18 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Australian International Islamic College Toowoomba Grammar School

State yy Next Steps Survey Reference Group yy Safe Night Out Strategy yy Non-State Schools Accreditation Board Reference Committee Queensland Government yy Non-State Schools Eligibility for yy Sector CEOs Group y y Brisbane South Ed-LinQ Government Funding Committee yy Senior Assessment Reference Group yy Non-State Schools Transport Ministerial Taskforce y y Ed-LinQ – Mental Health Assistance Scheme (NSSTAS) yy Senior Assessment Sectors in Schools Initiative yy Non-State Sectors Working Group Governance Group yy Industrial Law Committee yy NSSAB ICT Business Systems yy Smart Choices Strategy Group y y AEDC Research & Resources Project Redevelopment Project Board yy Standard Assessment Tasks’s Reference Group yy Professional Mandatory Reporting Advisory Committee y y Australian Music Examination Board and Referral Behaviours – Steering yy Start & Develop Well Working Group Queensland Advisory Committee Committee yy State ICT Reference Group y y Deadly Kids, Deadly Futures yy QFCC Joint Agency Steering Steering Committee yy Strategic Governance Group Committee NSO Program y y Early Childhood Education and yy QTIC Indigenous Employment Forum Care Forum yy Teacher Quality Working Group yy Queensland Curriculum and Assessment y yy Transition Support Service Committee y Ed-LinQ Steering Committee – Authority Review Steering Committee Mental Health, Alcohol and Other yy VET in Schools Working Group yy Queensland Disability Education Drugs Directorate yy VET Pathways Reference Group Committee yy Education Sector Partnership Meeting yy VET Training Reference Group yy Queensland Environmental y y Emergency and School Security Sustainability Schools Initiative yy Health Sector VET Engagement Management Group Alliance Working Party y y Gold Coast Commonwealth Games yy Queensland Online Assessment yy ASD Cross Sector Moderation Group Reference Group – Curriculum Materials Working Group yy Autism Collaboration Table y y Health & Community Services Industry yy Queensland Reference Group Food yy Autism CRC Education Partners Sector Standing Committee Wine and Tourism yy Brisbane North Ed-LinQ y y Health Pathways Alliance Steering yy Queensland School Sports Council Reference Group Committee yy Queensland Schools Alliance yy Complex Mental Health Conditions y y Improved Integration of Transport Against Violence Advisory Group Initiatives for Schools Reference Group yy Queensland Schools Planning yy ICT State Reference Committee yy Indigenous Education Evaluation Reference Committee y Governance Group y NDCO Queensland Regional yy Queensland Skin Cancer Prevention Advisory Group yy Kidsmatter/Mindmatters State Network y Reference Group y Positive Partners State Planning yy Reading Centre Committee yy Legislative and National y Implementation Reform Committee yy Road Safety Reference Group y QOAWG – Queensland Online Assessment Working Group yy Ministerial Sector Group yy Rural and Remote Education Reference Group yy SLI Cross Sector Moderation Group yy NAP (Sample) working group

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 19 Advocacy, Research and Representation

Other State Australian Curriculum, Assessment Queensland Education Leadership yy Affiliated Reference Group and Reporting Authority Institute yy Australian Catholic University, School yy Australian Curriculum: Economics and yy Board of Education Advisory Committee Business National Panel yy Education Committee yy Australian Music Examination Board – yy Directors of Curriculum yy Finance and Audit Committee Queensland yy HPE National Panel yy Computer Technologies For Schools yy National Testing Working Group Queensland College of Teachers Committee yy Foundation-Year 12 Curriculum yy QCT Board yy Education Placements Queensland Reference Group yy QCT Early Childhood Reference Group yy Employee Relations Schools Sectors yy QCT Item Review & Advisory Panel Group Australian Institute for Teaching (Numeracy) and School Leadership yy Griffith University Education Reference yy QCT Professional Standards Group yy Certifying Authorities Network Committee yy Joint Marketing Group yy Professional Growth Network yy Next Steps Reference Group yy Queensland and Torres Strait Islander Queensland Curriculum and Foundation Reference Group Assessment Authority yy Queensland Independent Schools yy Audit Committee Block Grant Authority (QID BGA) Ltd yy Authority Scaling Committee Board yy Exempted Certificates (for Queensland yy Queensland Independent Schools Curriculum and Assessment Authority Parents Network Board VET Committee) yy Queensland Schools Animal Ethics yy Measurement Working Group Committee yy QCAA 7-12 Committee yy School Transport Reference yy QCAA Board Committee yy QCAA P-6 Committee yy Schooling and Child Care Advisory yy VET Committee Group yy Techub Closed Network yy Working Party for the Technology Component of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games yy Non Schools Organisations Strategic Governance Group (NSOSGG) yy TAFE Brisbane Student Engagement yy Student Protection Education Working Group yy Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation Committee

20 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Djarragun College

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 21 Saint Stephen’s College

22 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Education Services

ISQ’s services to member schools Excellence in Initial Coaching Partnerships support the organisation’s Teacher Education Coaches trained through this program ongoing commitment to schools ISQ continues to support independent work collegially with leaders and to strengthen student outcomes schools to work closely with universities teachers through various coaching and enhance staff development. to build the capacity of the teaching processes to implement research based profession through excellent instructional practices relevant to a professional experience placements. In school chosen focus for pedagogical School Performance 2016 ISQ worked in collaboration with improvement. In 2016, Coaching three universities to engage 13 schools Partnerships was comprised of three Self-Improving Schools in discussion and planning for school/ programs: New Schools; Continuing Schools; and Expansion Schools. Striving for excellence and continual university partnerships focusing on teacher improvement. improvement is at the heart of ISQ’s In 2016, a total of 42 schools and flagship Self-Improving Schools (SIS) 50 coaches were funded through these program. SIS empowers schools Educational Data programs. Four schools participated to shape their future direction by in the 2016 program for the first identifying areas for improvement The strategic use and analysis of time. Participants engaged in the ISQ and developing tailored, evidence- data is critical to supporting school Connect&Learn Coaching Partnerships based strategies to achieve school improvement and accountability. In Community and throughout the goals. The program participation 2016 ISQ held three major symposia year an online coaching course was increased in 2016 with a total of 90 featuring speakers who expanded developed in preparation for the schools, including 13 new schools, school leader understanding of the use 2017 cohort. By the end of 2016, supported to improve student of educational data to positively impact 64 participants had enrolled in this outcomes, teacher practice and overall school strategic planning, improvement course. Coaches presented effects school performance. and student outcomes. These symposia from and understandings of their were supported by the development 2016 coaching experience during the Great Teachers in of a suite of six online modules that Sharing Days in November. schools accessed to upskill their staff. Independent Schools In 2016 independent schools were Research in Schools funded under the Queensland Teaching and Research in Schools provides the Government’s Teaching and School opportunity for small collaborative Leadership Program to develop Learning teams of teachers and leaders to activities to support teacher quality. The Teaching and Learning Academy investigate data and innovate with ISQ’s evidence-based Great Teachers in is an ISQ flagship program with two new strategies to systematically craft, Independent Schools program focused components: Coaching Partnerships develop and share a process of best on three strands of strategic support for (formerly known as the Literacy and practice through the implementation schools: leadership, mentoring teachers Numeracy Coaching Academy) and of action research. This research is at all career stages and strategic Research in Schools (formerly known focused on an area of significance performance and development. as Teachers as Researchers). These two to actively contribute to school programs directly contribute to school improvement. In 2016, Research In 2016, 196 eligible schools were improvement through meaningful, in Schools was comprised of four funded through the Great Teachers contextual professional learning programs: New Teachers as Researchers; in Independent Schools program. In approaches focused on priorities Continuing Teachers as Researchers: addition, 31 schools accessed the three articulated in school strategic plans, New School Focused Research; and program strands. aimed at improving student outcomes. Continuing School Focused Research.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 23 Education Services

Anglican Church Grammar School

In 2016, a total of 118 teachers to support implementation of the the provision of information and advice and leaders in 41 small teams from Australian Curriculum through to independent schools in each of the 36 schools participated in these teachers having opportunities to reform areas. programs. Participants engaged in attend social moderation gatherings ISQ’s Connect&Learn in the Research in in order to discuss student work A breakdown of individual programs Schools Community and a new online and develop consistency in the and funding allocations administered action research course developed judgments they make about grades. by ISQ are detailed in the 2016 ISQ throughout the year as the basis of the Overall, almost 3,000 school leaders Financial Statements. professional learning. By the end of the and teachers attended events related The national Transforming the year, 264 program and non-program to Australian Curriculum in 2016. Education Digital Supply Chain participants had enrolled in the course. Professional learning opportunities (TtEDSC) project jointly managed by Project teams presented research were provided for a range of teachers ISQ and AISNSW continued its growth findings, which included models of best and administrators including support and evolution in 2016. The project practice in the area of investigation, at for small schools across the sector offered live virtual events to students, the November Colloquium days. and support with the curriculum for staff and parents of independent schools with a focus on Aboriginal and schools Australia wide. There were Torres Strait Islander students. Some 134 events offered in 2016, including Australian member schools were also supported professional learning webinars for staff, individually in 2016 as they adapted Curriculum virtual excursions for students and six current curriculum offerings to the parent webinars on student wellbeing ISQ continued its advocacy role Australian Curriculum for the purposes topics. At the end of the calendar year on state and national committees of accreditation requirements. reviewing the Australian Curriculum individual membership had topped including representing ISCA on the 2,850 with 50 percent of these being ACARA F–12 Curriculum Reference State and National member school staff. Committee. Another initiative was Targeted Funding On top of the content events, TtEDSC the development of an Our Schools – ran the first National Virtual Debating Our Future paper, Leading Curriculum During 2016, ISQ administered Competition using video conferencing. Innovation: A discussion paper launched approximately $30 million in grant It was highly successful with 35 schools, in November to provide provocations payments relating to Federal and State 64 teams and a team of adjudicators as member schools consider innovative Government programs. The programs all communicating from different ways that curriculum implementation covered a range of government geographic locations in six states. could be shaped within different priorities including teacher and school There were 70 debates conducted contexts across the sector. leadership, students with disability, and NGS Super was the platinum vocational education and training, corporate sponsor. In 2016, ISQ’s support for member school chaplaincy, disengaged schools in implementing the Australian students and children in the care of In 2017, the project will become Curriculum included the School the state. The Australian Government’s the Independent Schools Digital and Curriculum Leaders’ Briefings Students First Support Fund continued Collaboration Network (ISDCN) and and Workshops held each semester to provide funding for 29 specific will no longer be supported by throughout the state. ISQ continued projects and activities and supported federal funding.

24 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Faith Lutheran College Genesis Christian College

Students with Disability Vocational Education and In 2016, tailored consultancy assistance ISQ continued to provide extensive Training was provided to 12 schools. More than 150 teachers and school leaders from support for member schools in Vocational Education and Training 106 schools participated in a suite of relation to students with disability. ISQ (VET) is part of the curriculum in the professional learning events including facilitated targeted grants to schools majority of independent schools with Indigenous Bandscales training and supporting students with disability upper secondary enrolments. Australian moderation sessions in Brisbane and through the Queensland Government Government funding is provided on a Townsville and a two-day professional Education Adjustment Program (EAP). yearly basis to support school-based development event on Aboriginal and Workshops were conducted to help apprenticeships and traineeships and Torres Strait Islander Assessment and school staff determine eligibility and other VET activities. Some funding Curriculum. A highlight of 2016 was develop and implement appropriate is also available for school staff to the provision of three new support adjustments and programs for students undertake the Certificate IV in Training events: Indigenous Teacher Aide Cert III deemed eligible under the EAP. and Assessment and the Certificate Training, an Indigenous school leaders Schools were able to access support IV in Career Development. In 2016, mentoring group and an additional and advice through phone, email and more than 10,000 VET certificates curriculum planning day supporting focus updates. were awarded to students enrolled schools to embed Indigenous content in independent schools and the 2016 was the second mandated into Numeracy planning. In 2016, this number of young Indigenous students Nationally Consistent Collection school support was complemented participating in apprenticeships of Data on School Students with with the launch of an online module and traineeships increased. VET Disability (NCCD). ISQ enhanced “Partnering with Local Indigenous qualifications can be delivered by support for schools in relation to the Communities” to assist schools to the school as a registered training NCCD through school leader briefings improve a whole school approach organisation or through other providers and local network meetings, as well to improving cultural awareness and including TAFE. as face-to-face NCCD workshops for school-community partnerships. teachers, school administrators and learning support staff. These sessions Aboriginal and Torres Strait were intended to support a consistent Islander Education process for our schools. In 2016, ISQ recorded a notable increase in engagement from schools In 2016, ISQ commenced the delivery of with Indigenous students. Increased two online training courses for member engagement also came from schools under licence from Online schools with no Indigenous student Training Australia, “Understanding enrolments wanting to improve Dyslexia and Significant Difficulties teacher professional development in in Reading” and “Understanding and the Australian Professional Standards Supporting Behaviour”. for Teachers APSTs 1.3, 1.4 and 2.4 i.e. supporting Indigenous student learning and embedding Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 25 Governance and School Services

In 2016, ISQ continued to provide yy nine short courses of the Independent Employee Relations a range of support, training and Schools Governance Program Short ISQ provides comprehensive support targeted services to enhance Course (including one in a regional area), and short course delivery to to schools in the area of employee school leadership, management three school whole boards based on relations, industrial relations and human and governance while keeping their specific requirements. resources management. Services include schools up-to-date and compliant yy the facilitation of three board strategic advice, as well as operational across a broad range of policy and reviews as well as working with three level support, professional development, operational changes. schools to develop comprehensive enterprise bargaining negotiations and strategic plans. representation at employment tribunals to resolve legal claims against members. Governance yy continuation of the provision of Online resources such as employee resources and advice to school relations guidelines, templates, Services governors on an individual school factsheets and checklists were basis; development of a governance How schools are governed and expanded in 2016, as the demand by resources and materials space managed is critical to their success. member schools for services continued on the ISQ website accessible to More than 2,200 dedicated individuals to increase. There was a 37 percent school governors. are estimated to serve on school boards increase in the number of individual in independent schools. ISQ continued yy the annual Governance Forum had cases dealt with by the Employee its role in providing training and support as its focus “Know your business” with Relations team (747 in 2016 compared to boards to undertake a complex array speaker topics including demographic with 547 in 2015). The ISQ employee of responsibilities in areas including: trends, the key relationship between relations service engaged with around strategic planning, risk management, the board and the principal, the 60 percent of members, or 118 schools, finances, compliance, stakeholder changing landscape of Australian in 2016. This reflects the complexity communication and management education and the “Good School of the area of employee relations and and educational requirements. ISQ Governance Pledge”. the confidence that members have continued to expand and strengthen its yy hosted two governance BoardCast in ISQ’s in-house expertise. ISQ also flagship Governance Services program breakfasts and a Twilight Chat for continued to work with the Associations and recorded overall participation by governors and school leaders to of Independent Schools in New South 79 schools (39 percent of the sector). provide networks and relevant Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria information and thought leadership and Western Australia on the ongoing Achievements during 2016 included: on current governance issues review of federal modern awards. yy publication of the final (fifth) and trends. governance research paper which yy facilitated board induction for a included the development of the grouping of school board members of “Good School Governance Pledge”; a system. the compilation and release of all yy a review of the Governance Services five papers (including the data program. The review was undertaken summary paper); the publication of a in order to provide an evaluation of governance paper on New Approaches the content and up-take by schools to Strategic Thinking for Independent and to inform future development Schools in August 2016. and implementation of the program.

26 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland School Business Early Childhood International Management ISQ provided advice and support for the Education establishment of new early childhood In 2016, ISQ continued to provide expert services, administered funding through ISQ provided advice, updates, resources support, updates, training and resources, the Independent Schools Queensland and professional development for including templates, handbooks and Central Governing Body (ISQ CGB) legislation and regulation compliance factsheets across major and topical for member kindergarten services, for CRICOS registered schools, areas of compliance and business supported services to meet state and recruitment of long and short term management. federal regulatory requirements, and overseas students, internationalisation of schooling and development of ISQ continued to provide high delivered a suite of professional learning opportunities for early childhood Global Citizenship Education programs. quality regulatory and compliance ISQ contributes to the national and responsiveness, with the areas of policy educators, including a focus on Transition to School. international education agenda by implementation, child protection and working closely with ISCA and the student attendance reported as being The Age Appropriate Pedagogies International Education Association of key in 2016. The newly developed Program was piloted in a number of Australia (IEAA). online Child Protection training module member schools in 2016. The program (released in January) was completed by specifically supported Prep teachers 2,940 independent school staff in 2016. to gain the knowledge and skills to The school business management area be leaders in implementing effective delivered professional development approaches to learning and teaching in through two face-to-face training events the early years. and seven virtual events focusing on In addition to the facilitation of learning school operations, as well as six virtual and the opportunity to share and and face to face training events focussed network with early childhood colleagues on employee relations. The policy through workshops, program days and review service was used by 15 schools a forum, ISQ provided further support in 2016. ISQ also undertook school to services by phone, email, virtual administration structure reviews for delivery and face-to-face (school visits) five schools. as required.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 27 Caloundra City Private School

28 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Organisational Capability

Building the capability and Professional Learning Centre The online course catalogue contains capacity of ISQ to respond to The Professional Learning Centre more than 30 modules covering a wide contemporary challenges and (PLC) is a world class training facility variety of subject areas such as: action for ISQ members. The facility hosted research; quality assessment; coaching; forward plan to meet emerging educational data; compliance; member needs remains a priority. 133 professional learning events with an additional 41 other events such leadership; Literacy and Numeracy; and as internal and external meetings, NLLIA ESL Bandscales. Human Resources attracting almost 5,000 attendees in ISQ Connect&Learn also contains 2016. A varied staffing profile with diverse 28 dynamic and engaging community skills ensured the delivery of a wide spaces that are regularly accessed by range of quality membership services. Information and educators and leaders and contain ISQ staffing numbered 54 for the 2016 numerous resources and workshop year. ISQ also engaged a number Communication materials. The communities also allow of consultants to support its work Technology learners to share and discuss teaching particularly in supporting member practice, leadership, latest research and schools. ISQ continued to review its current government requirements that impact Information and Communication the classroom. The Professional Development Bank Technology (ICT) and moved more which provides for staff professional services to the cloud in 2016. Also, Relationship Management learning and career development ISQ replaced hardware for downsized System continued in 2016. A review of the internal servers, introduced a Professional Development Bank was VoIP Telephone system plus ISQ engaged Associated Membership undertaken in 2016 with a planned shift upgraded network equipment. ISQ Software (AMS) in 2015 to work to a whole of organisation professional decommissioned a dedicated server with ISQ to define and design a development program to be room which significantly reduced its relationship management system commissioned for 2017. Additionally, environmental impact in 2016. This, and (RMS). The first phase of this project ISQ staff continue to access a wide other economy measures, secured ISQ has been completed and in 2016 range of professional development to a Green Star energy rating for business. staff transitioned to the new platform maintain their knowledge and skills A new internet service provider was for contact management, project relevant to their roles. configured with impressive speeds of information management and member delivery to both sites (ISQ House and relationship information management. PLC), to support ongoing needs of Development in 2017 will focus on Facilities virtual delivery and access to multiple the new website and events system cloud services. offering an improved environment for ISQ House interaction with members. A number of initiatives have been Online Collaboration and put in place to improve the “eco- Learning Management System friendliness” of the ISQ Head Office – ISQ House. After adopting several ISQ’s learning management system efficiency measures, ISQ House has (LMS), Connect&Learn, assists staff at seen an average monthly energy use member schools to learn and connect reduction of 30 percent compared to through innovative, research-based 2015. This has resulted in significant online learning and contains a wide financial savings, plus recognition from range of courses and communities Chamber of Commerce and Industry that are engaging, dynamic and Queensland by being awarded a One collaborative in nature. Star Ecobiz Partnership.

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 29 Membership

Membership continues to grow Table 1: Member School Characteristics, 2016 STUDENTS AT in line with the demand and NUMBER OF MEMBER SCHOOLS supply of new schooling services MEMBER CATEGORY SUB-CATEGORY SCHOOLS NUMBER PERCENT across Queensland. School Combined (Primary & Secondary) 149 108,065 89.4% Structure Type Primary 24 4,096 3.4% Member Schools Secondary 26 8,482 7.1% The number of member schools rose Special 2 202 0.2% to 203 by the end of 2016. The makeup School Co-ed 180 100,266 82.9% of the membership included 198 Gender Type independent schools (117,880 total Female 13 10,674 8.8% enrolments) and five Catholic schools Male 9 9,971 8.2% (3,031 total enrolments). Together Type of Students Boarding 35 3,959 3.3% these member schools catered for Fee Paying Overseas 78 1,525 1.3% 120,911 students from Prep to Year 12, Distance Education 7 2,583 2.1% or 15 percent of all school students in Indigenous 188 4,156 3.4% the state. All non-Catholic independent Students with Disability 181 3,171 2.6% schools in Queensland are members of English as Second Language 114 5,420 4.5% the association.

Member schools are representative of the diversity of students and families living in Queensland communities Member Publications to the high number of research (refer Table 1). More than half of all ISQ published and produced a range of articles received for Catalyst, a special Queensland independent schools serve documents to keep members updated third edition was created in 2016. communities with average or lower on current policy issues and debates This is testament to the amount of income families. as well as contemporary education rigorous and research-based work research and thinking, including: that is occurring in Queensland Over the past 10 years membership has independent schools. yy Catalyst: Research and Innovation increased by 13 percent with an extra in Independent Schools featured yy Briefings was published 10 times 26 schools joining ISQ over this period research in areas including mentoring with each edition incorporating an (refer Chart 1). early career teachers, improving opinion article by ISQ’s Executive student retention and assessing Director on a current policy issue and Member Engagement digital innovation in schools. Due a topical research article written by a ISQ continued to improve and senior ISQ staff member. strengthen its communication and engagement with member schools Chart 1: Membership 2006-2016 through a range of formats including, weekly e-news information updates, 12011 20 Number of Students tuent eer strategic briefings from the Executive ool Number of Member Schools Director, focus area updates and social 120,000 200 media. This regular communication was supported by face-to-face meetings 100,000 190 with ISQ staff making more than 470 80,000 180 visits to 152 schools including 24 new 60,000 170 principals in 2016. 40,000 160

20,000 150

0 140 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Data Source: 2016 Non-State School Census (State) February Collection

30 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Members Bundaberg Christian College Faith Baptist Christian School (as at 31 December 2016) Burdekin Christian College Faith Christian School of Distance Education A. B. Paterson College Burnett Youth Learning Centre Faith Lutheran College – Plainland Aboriginal and Islander Independent Caboolture Montessori School Faith Lutheran College – Redlands Community School Cairns Adventist College Fraser Coast Anglican College Agnew School Cairns Hinterland Steiner School Freshwater Christian College All Saints Anglican School Caloundra Christian College Genesis Christian College All Souls St Gabriels School Caloundra City Private School Girl Academy Alta-1 College Calvary Christian College Glasshouse Christian College Ambrose Treacy College Calvary Christian College – Townsville Glenvale Christian School Ananda Marga River School Cannon Hill Anglican College Gold Coast Christian College Angelorum College Canterbury College Good News Lutheran School Anglican Church Grammar School Carinity Education – Glendyne Good Shepherd Christian School Annandale Christian College Carinity Education – Rockhampton Good Shepherd Lutheran College Arcadia College (Varsity Lakes) Carinity Education – Southside Goora Gan Steiner School Arethusa College Carlisle Adventist Christian College Grace Lutheran College Australian Christian College – Moreton Carmichael College Grace Lutheran Primary School Australian Industry Trade College Central Queensland Christian College Groves Christian College Australian International Islamic College Chinchilla Christian College Gulf Christian College Australian Technology and Christian Outreach College Agricultural College Heights College Citipointe Christian College, Australian Trade College North Brisbane The Christian Outreach College Brisbane Hillbrook Anglican School Autism Queensland Education and Clayfield College Hillcrest Christian College Therapy Centre Concordia Lutheran College Hills International College Bayside Christian College Hervey Bay Cooloola Christian College Hinchinbrook Christian School Bethania Lutheran Primary School Coolum Beach Christian College Horizons College Bethany Lutheran Primary School Coomera Anglican College Hubbard’s School Blackall Range Independent School Coral Coast Christian School Hymba Yumba Community Hub Blackheath and Thornburgh College Dalby Christian College Immanuel Lutheran College Border Rivers Christian College Darling Downs Christian School Inala Flexible Learning Centre Brisbane Adventist College Discovery Christian College Ipswich Adventist School Brisbane Boys’ College Djarragun College Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School Brisbane Christian College Emerald Christian College Ipswich Grammar School Brisbane Girls Grammar School Emmanuel College Islamic College of Brisbane Brisbane Grammar School Endeavour Christian College Jabiru Community College Brisbane Independent School Fairholme College John Paul College Brisbane Montessori School

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 31 Membership

Jubilee Christian College Redlands College Tec-NQ Kairos Community College Redwood College The Cathedral School of St Anne and St James Kimberley College Rivermount College The Glenleighden School King’s Christian College Riverside Adventist Christian School The Glennie School Lighthouse Christian School Riverside Christian College The Kooralbyn International School Living Faith Lutheran Primary School Rockhampton Girls Grammar School The Lakes College Livingstone Christian College Saint Philomena School The Rockhampton Grammar School Lourdes Hill College Saint Stephen’s College The School of Total Education Lutheran Ormeau Rivers District School Samford Valley Steiner School The SCOTS PGC College Mackay Christian College Shalom Christian College The Southport School Maridahdi Early Childhood Sheldon College Community School The Springfield Anglican College Silkwood School Matthew Flinders Anglican College Tom Quinn Community Centre Sinai College Alternative School (Bungara School) Montessori International College Somerset College Toogoolawa School Moreton Bay Birali Steiner School Somerville House Toowoomba Anglican College and Moreton Bay Boys College St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School Preparatory School Moreton Bay College St Andrew’s Anglican College Toowoomba Christian College Mueller College St Andrew’s Lutheran College Toowoomba Grammar School Music Industry College St Hilda’s School Townsville Christian College Nambour Christian College St James Lutheran College Townsville Grammar School Noosa Christian College St John’s Anglican College Trinity Anglican School Noosa Pengari Steiner School St John’s Lutheran Primary School Trinity College Northpine Christian College St John’s Lutheran School Trinity Lutheran College Northside Christian College St Luke’s Anglican School Victory College Ormiston College St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School Wadja Wadja High School Pacific Lutheran College St Michael’s College Warwick Christian College – Parklands Christian College Slade Campus St Patrick’s College Townsville Peace Lutheran College West Moreton Anglican College St Paul’s Lutheran Primary School Peace Lutheran Primary School Westside Christian College St Paul’s School Peregian Beach Community College Whitsunday Anglican School St Peters Lutheran College Pine Community School Whitsunday Christian College St Peters Lutheran College – Springfield Prince of Peace Lutheran College Wisdom College Staines Memorial College Queensland Independent College Yarranlea Primary School Stuartholme School Radiant Life College YMCA Vocational School Suncoast Christian College Redeemer Lutheran College – Biloela Sunshine Coast Grammar School Redeemer Lutheran College – Rochedale Tamborine Mountain College

32 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Caboolture Montessori School

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 33 Alliance Partners

In 2016, ISQ continued its relationship with a select number of commercial alliances. Commonwealth Bank maintained its Platinum Alliance, NGS Super maintained its Gold Plus Alliance. Smart Teachers Smart Leaders joined as a Gold Alliance partner in 2016, with QIEC Super and Medibank Private continuing as Silver Alliance partners. Willis Australia continued as a Bronze Alliance partner in 2016.

PLATINUM ALLIANCE

The Glenleighden School

GOLD PLUS ALLIANCE

Arethusa College

GOLD ALLIANCE

34 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland Ipswich Grammar School The Springfield Anglican College

Brisbane Boys’ College

Coomera Anglican College

SILVER ALLIANCE

BRONZE ALLIANCE

Independent Schools Queensland 2016 Annual Report 35 ISQ Secretariat

(as at 31 December 2016)

Executive School Services David Robertson – Executive Director Ashley Uren – Assistant Director (Employee Relations) Helen Coyer – Deputy Executive Director and Director (Operations) Judy Young – Assistant Director (School Services) Mark Newham – Director (Education Services) Mariana Lane – Project Manager (International Education) Shari Armistead – Director (Strategic Relations) Ray Kelly – Senior Advisor (Employee Relations) Elana Heyes – Executive Assistant Tracey Coombes – Senior Advisor (Employee Relations) Grant Williamson – School Services Advisor Education Services Rebecca McKinnon – School Services Advisor Josephine Wise – Assistant Director (Education Services) Helen Gabriel – School Services Advisor Pauline Kenzler – Manager (Education Services) Courtney Downward – Assistant School Services Advisor Trish Brady – Manager (Student Services) Suzanne Jessen – Manager (Teacher Quality) Strategic Relations RoseMarie Koppe – Education Services Officer (Aboriginal and Allan Guse – Principal Advisor (Strategic Resourcing) Torres Strait Islander Education) Dr Deidre Thian – Principal Consultant (Research) Stephen Barnes – Education Services Officer (School Improvement) Justine Nolan – Senior Advisor (Public Affairs) Jacky Dawson – Education Services Officer (Student Services) Len McCarthy – Analyst (Schools Funding) Pene Bancroft – Education Services Officer (Students with Disability) Claire Power – Manager (Communications) Kate Crowe – Education Services Officer (Teacher Quality) Wilson Bambrick – Web and Multimedia Content Officer David Grimes – Education Services Officer (Teacher Quality) Natalie Kingcott – Publications and Design Officer Marnie Parker – Education Services Officer (VET) Lauren Ashmole – Project Coordinator (Education Services) Teaching & Learning Services Chris Hampson – Administration Officer (Education Services) Leigh Williams – Assistant Director (Teaching and Learning) Jenny Broadley – Administration Officer (Education Services) Jenene Rosser – Executive Manager (Curriculum and Assessment) Kristina Samios – Manager (Teaching and Learning) Organisational Services Madeleine Green – Manager (eLearning and Educational Wendy Murphy – Assistant Director (Finance and Business Technologies) Improvement) Ian Quartermaine – Program Manager (ISDCN) Tom Meredith – Manager (Facilities and Events) Alison McRae – Project Officer (NAPLAN and Educational Data) Shane Mortimore – Manager (ICT) Kathy Harris – Education Services Officer (STEM and Languages) Cassandra Walsh – Manager (Relationship Management System) Rebecca Harris – Education Services Officer (Coaching and Numeracy) Kendry Corcut – Administration Officer (Accounts) Leigh Witney – Education Services Officer (Teaching and Learning) Jenny Brunne – Administration Officer (Organisation Services) Silvia Parada – Project Coordinator (Teaching and Learning) Tess Hazlehurst – Administration Officer (Organisation Services) Loree Wilkinson – Administration Officer (Teaching and Learning) Julia McPaul – Administration Officer (Organisation Services) Queensland Independent Schools Block Grant Authority Dr Grant Watson – General Manager/Company Secretary Rod Morris – Executive Officer Kylie Burnett – Executive Officer Magi Huang – Finance Officer Tiffany Lee – Senior Administration Officer

36 2016 Annual Report Independent Schools Queensland The Lakes College © Independent Schools Queensland May 2017

Independent Schools Queensland Ltd ACN 614 893 140 ABN 88 662 995 577

Head Office Professional Learning Centre 1st Floor, 96 Warren Street, Spring Hill Q 4000 Level 5, 500 Queen Street, Brisbane Q 4000 PO Box 957, Spring Hill Q 4004 PO Box 957, Spring Hill Q 4004 P (07) 3228 1515 F (07) 3228 1575 P (07) 3228 1507 E [email protected] www.isq.qld.edu.au E [email protected]