The school council has particular functions in setting and monitoring the school’s direction.

School councils have three main responsibilities:

·       finance: overseeing the development of the school’s annual budget and ensuring proper records are kept of the school’s financial operation

·       strategic planning: participating in the development and monitoring of the school strategic plan

·       policy development and review: developing, reviewing and updating policies that reflect a school’s values and support the school’s broad direction outlined in its strategic plan.

Other key functions of school councils include:

·       raising funds for school related purposes

·       maintaining school grounds and facilities

·       entering into contracts

·       reporting annually to the school community and the Department

·       creating interest in the school in the wider community

·       representing and taking the views of the community into account

·       regulating and facilitating after-hours use of school premises and grounds

·       operating a children’s service at the school.

 

School councils comprise parents, the principal, staff, and students if the school has enrolments in year 7 and above. Many councils also have community members.  At least two thirds of the membership consists of parents.  School council elections are held in February or March each year and must be completed by 31 March. Our School Council election process for 2023 is currently underway. See Compass for details.

All parents or guardians of students enrolled at the school are eligible to vote for parent members, staff vote for Department employee members and students vote for student members. Community members are co-opted by the school council.