Australia’s peak principals’ associations will collaborate with the Federal Education Minister on an ongoing basis to ensure their voice is heard on national education policy, following a commitment made at a roundtable in June.
The roundtable, held in Sydney on 28 June, discussed ways to support principal wellbeing and efficacy. Three months earlier, the Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) secured a commitment from Minister Clare to include this issue on the Education Minister’s Meeting agenda, with the Minister then committing to forming the national principals’ reference group.
In a demonstration of solidarity, the peak associations presented jointly developed proposals for research and professional support mechanisms to retain and sustain school leaders and for ongoing engagement on national education policy.
Minister Clare committed to ongoing collaboration with the nine associations through a national reference group that will become a regular part of his engagement with the profession, ensuring the voice of the nation’s principals is heard on national education policy.
ASPA President, Andy Mison, said Minister Clare’s “receptive approach and genuine understanding” of the challenges faced by school leaders from all sectors were welcomed.
“This signals a new partnership between policymakers and those on the front lines of education,” Mison said.
“Formalising a national principals’ reference group is a significant achievement, providing school leaders a direct and ongoing opportunity to contribute to national policy. When principals are supported and involved in the design of school policy, everyone benefits.”
Mison said this collaborative approach will support initiatives, contribute to a fulfilling environment for teachers, and lead to better outcomes for students.
“ASPA commends Minister Clare for his leadership and commitment to partnering with school leaders for a stronger, fairer, and more effective education system