23 June 2023

President’s Report

How often have we heard, or even said ourselves that schools are essentially a reflection of the broader community, a microcosm of society? In the past few weeks, TPA have continued our involvement in two roundtable/working groups – the Inclusion Advisory Committee and the LGBTIQ+ Working Group. Both groups have a cross section of system, school and community leaders and representatives. Both chairs of these meetings acknowledged the significant social policy and change that has occurred in these spaces in our state. Reflecting on June also being celebrated as Pride Month, one community member of these groups also proudly made reference to the inclusive practice in schools and colleges. They highlighted the positive experience described by a young person of their school providing pride support groups and how they feel genuinely excited about the move to college where they know the same inclusive supports are in place. They feel safe, supported, connected and empowered. Listening to these reflections and others, there really have been great steps that have led to societal change in our state. It’s also a reminder that schools are powerful places to lead the change that we want to see in our society. If we can have our young people driving and designing, then I am sure we can flip it so instead society becomes a reflection of the best practice already happening in our schools.

Welcome to our new members Jaime Allen, Principal, Goodwood Primary School, Elizabeth Williams, Principal, Scottsdale High School, Davin Broomhall, Scottsdale Primary School. And congratulations to our colleagues who have recently won or been appointed to principal positions to commence in Term 3. As the most recent Australian Principal Occupational Health and Wellbeing Survey recommendations for individual principals to ‘…draw on supports available from Professional Associations’, we encourage you to promote to newly appointed school leaders the advantages and evidence base like the 2023 report on the positive impacts of being a part of our professional association.

I hope you have had the chance to register for the APPA Conference to be held in Hobart from July 30^th to August 3^rd. Some members have reached out asking if they can register for part of the conference, recognising some flexibility that they may need in leading their school. Please contact Conference Design appa@conferencedesign.com.au if you would like to explore this further. A reminder that TPA doesn’t hold an annual conference on the occasions when the National Conference is in our state.

Recent Sad News

I’d like to acknowledge the recent advice and communications from DECYP in relation to the passing of Judy Travers and Jeff Triffitt. The depth and breadth of impact that both Judy and Jeff have had as educational and community leaders across our state is quite extraordinary and enduring. I know that this information can come as a shock and we encourage staff and colleagues to access collegial and professional supports made available by DECYP.

National School Reform Agreement

We are at an important juncture with the NSRA and it is important that school leaders take the opportunity to provide their feedback and engage in opportunities in the development of the next Agreement. As per our previous newsletter, please take the time to complete the survey and don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr Sally Milbourne if you have any questions, or would like to discuss further opportunities to engage - Sally Milbourne sally.milbourne@outlook.com

Headspace/BeYou Principal Professional Learning

It was heartening to have such a strong turn out of colleagues from around the state attend the recent session at Wrest Point. The key messages, provocation and resources from the Headspace/BeYou team on self care and supporting the well being of others so we can lead effectively, were well received by the participants.

TPA – Platinum Sponsors

MSP

ZartArt

Hearing Loop Australia

Education Perfect

National Associations

Australian Secondary Principals Association

Australian Primary Principals Association

TPA Gold Sponsors

Great news for Teachers Health members! Premium increases have been postponed for another 3 months. That means your premium won’t change until 1 October 2023. Not yet a Teachers Health member? Join with Hospital & Extras cover before 30 June to get six weeks free cover and skip the 2 & 6 month waits on Extras. Find out more

Professional Learning

Tough Conversations for Leaders

ACEL

Open invitation to Branch General meeting June 28 5 pm - 6:15 pm - the Hutchins School - Senior Library

Nominations are open for The Australian Council for Educational Leaders Tasmanian Annual Awards

The Awards Ceremony is to be held on September 7th at the University Club,  Sandy Bay campus of UTAS 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm.

TPA Sponsors

Platinum

Gold