School Councils play a key role in Victorian government schools. Participating as a School Council member is a rewarding and challenging experience. The School Council supports the Principal to provide the best possible educational outcomes for students.  The Council is made up of elected parents and staff members with the majority being parents.  We meet monthly. Every year approximately half the Council terms expire and nominations are called for in February and if need be an election is held.  A councillor term is for 2 years.

Functions of a school council

The functions of a school council are outlined in the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 and include:

• establishing the broad direction and vision of the school within the school’s community

• participating in the development and monitoring of the School Strategic Plan

• approving the annual budget and monitoring expenditure

• developing, reviewing and updating school policies

• raising funds for school-related purposes

• maintaining the school’s grounds and facilities

• entering into contracts (such as for cleaning or construction work)

• reporting annually to the school community and to the Department

• creating interest in the school in the wider community

• informing itself of and taking into account the views of the community

• regulating and facilitating the after hours use of school premises and grounds

• operating a children’s service at the school or other premises controlled by the Minister.

Role of our school council

The role of our School Council is to assist in the governance of the school. Our School Council has three subcommittees. This is a very brief overview of what they do.

Finance – The Finance Committee present the recommended budget to School Council for approval and adoption. They also regularly monitor and report to council on progress against the budget.
Education and Planning – The Education and Planning Committee maintain educational policies such as camps, excursions and student welfare.
Buildings and Grounds – Buildings and Grounds organise working bees and maintain the schools appearance.
For information on School Councils and subcommittees go to eduction.vic.gov.au.

If you would like to attend it is a good idea to contact Principal, Sue Dean, and let her know you are coming. Occasionally there are times when meetings are closed. Our meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm in the staffroom. At 6.30pm both the Education and Planning Committee and the Buildings and Grounds Committee meet in preparation for Council. School Council governance information is available on this link: http://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/school/principals/governance/governanceph.pdf


These are public documents and provide a range of information regarding council. If you have any questions you are welcome to give me a call or catch up with me at school.

Any questions regarding School Council can be addressed by Sue Dean at the office.