INFORM Newsletter
2025, Term 1, Issue 2
President's Report
Colin Axup
VASSP President
Hope is central to education. As Dostoevsky wrote, “To live without Hope is to cease to live,” but in schools, hope is more than survival—it’s action. As Desmond Tutu said, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.”
Principals don’t just hope for the best; they create it.
The start of the school year is a reminder of that optimism-new students with oversized bags, sleeves too long, and Year 12s balancing excitement and nerves. Staff return refreshed, ready to make a difference. These moments sustain us. They make the difficult seem less so. And they keep hope alive.
However, while issues of staffing have continued, the impact has varied across the state. And this is common refrain from our counterparts around the country. The ongoing issue with staffing is not one of quantity but of quality. All too often over the past several years we have heard the refrain that principals are employing people ongoing they would never have looked at in the past. And while there are increased supports, such as the Career Start program, the reality is that managing underperformance is excessively time consuming for already time poor leaders. But there is hope; these are all issues that we have continued to raise with the Department, and we are hopeful that measures will be put in place to support schools.
“Hope springs eternal in the human breast,” wrote Alexander Pope. And when it comes to the Independent Review into Administration and Compliance, hope is what many of us are holding onto. As the end of term approaches, we are still waiting for the release of the final report. We understand it has been completed and contains a range of recommendations-none of which, we’re told, are particularly unexpected.
Alongside our colleagues from other associations, VASSP has been seeking access to the report since December. We engaged with the review in good faith, as did a significant number of staff across all school roles. It’s understandable that thorough consideration takes time, but there is growing concern about the delay in sharing findings with those who contributed their insights. We remain hopeful the report will be made available before the end of term, so the important work of responding and improving can begin in earnest.
For quite some time now we have been making it clear that VASSP, as a key stakeholder, is not being adequately consulted. The VGSA provides a clear definition of consultation curtesy of the Federal
Court. And as principals of schools we have all ensured that we follow that definition in our consultative practices. Occasionally, very occasionally, the Department manages to consult effectively; a recent example being the introduction of the School Saving Bonus. Being informed and being consulted are vastly different and as the experts in the field, when we are consulted the outcomes have more of chance of being positive. Last year, the new Differentiated School Performance Model (DSPM) was presented to us, and the other associations, as a fait accompli. From the beginning we indicated that there were serious flaws with the new DSPM and that it reduced the number of data points by which schools were being judged. The sudden introduction, which then fed into Intensive School Support (ISS) school identification, meant that schools were being assessed on a select set of unknown measures. The analogy is that this was like the rules of the game being changed part way through and not informing the players. The fact that the DSPM is already going through a ‘refresh’ only highlights the missed opportunity from not adequately consulting.
The most egregious example of flawed policy as a result of a lack of consultation has been the Enhanced Bail Supervision and Support (EBSS) trial; euphemistically referred to as the ‘ankle bracelet’ trial. We were informed of the policy at the beginning of February and from the beginning I was adamant that the policy was severely flawed. While we worked through the appropriate channels withing the Department, the media ran with the story and we then engaged directly with the Minister. The strong advocacy of VASSP, working in conjunction with the Australian Principals Federation, has ensured that mainstream schools will not be managing the young people who are part of the trial. I would note that Queensland had a similar trial a few years ago and it was not even remotely successful.
The above examples are why VASSP, along with other key stakeholders, should, and need, to be properly consulted in the development of policy. We are the experts; we understand schools and students. Along with our colleagues from the other association we are engaging with the Department to develop a consultation model that is genuine and worthwhile. Working together with ensure better policy outcomes, which in turn ensures better outcomes for our students.
Finally, your health, wellbeing and professional development need to be at the front of your planning. The Age ran an article that focused on job tenure. The average job tenure in Australia is approximately three (3) years and that means that people change jobs about fifteen (15) times in an average career! That doesn’t sound like the teaching profession; however, the ACU Principal Health and Wellbeing Survey has been reporting that an increasing number of principals are considering leaving the profession and/or retiring soon. So, to ensure that you can sustain the pace of school leadership you need to look after yourself. Attend a VASSP meeting, seminar or conference (details in this newsletter) and certainly make sure you have a break at the end of this term.
Need to Know
EARLY BIRD TICKETS FOR VASSP CONFERENCE 2025
Early bird tickets are now available for VASSP Conference 2025! Get yours before Friday 4 July 2025 to secure a reduced rate on tickets and exclusive access to group ticket prices if your school register three or more staff.
Get your tickets here: VASSP Conference 2025
TEACHER SHORTAGE IMPACT SURVEY
Survey link: Term 1, 2025 Teacher Shortage Impact Survey
*VASSP continues to encourage members to share how their school is responding to staffing shortages. This survey offers continuous insights into the impact of staff shortages in secondary schools. The data supports our advocacy, highlighting the nuances and complexity of managing the secondary school environment.
GOT A CASE AT THE MPB? VASSP CAN HELP
Got a case at the MPB? VASSP can help.
It’s never ideal to receive a Merit Protection Board (MPB) notification. Whether it’s a selection or personal grievance, it’s one more thing on your already packed agenda.
What can VASSP do for you?
Our Field Officers are former principals with MPB experience.
We provide:
- A review of the case and likely outcome based on our experience.
- Support drafting your written response—offering an impartial, pragmatic view.
- Help preparing for the hearing, including presenting your rationale clearly.
- Representation at the hearing—particularly useful when the appellant is internal, keeping focus on process, not personalities.
- Post-hearing debrief.
What to keep in mind
- Appeals are part of a fair system—annoying, but necessary.
- Dismissals are rare. Most cases proceed, even those that seem weak.
- The MPB operates within strict legal parameters.
For more detail, visit the MPB website.
Need support? Get in touch with your VASSP Field Officer or our MPB Specialist.
SCHOOL SAVING BONUS - IMPLEMENTATION FEEDBACK
Business Managers Victoria (BMV) has worked collaboratively with the following Associations to prepare this School Saving Bonus Survey to encourage members to provide recommendations and solutions to manage the SSB process in schools for all parties involved (parents, suppliers, and schools).
- Australian Principals Federation (APF Victoria Branch)
- Country Education Partnership (CEP)
- Principals’ of Specialist Schools (PASS)
- Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP)
- Victorian Principals Association (VPA)
Please provide us with data to present to the Department and Minister for Education’s Office to clearly show the effect this program has had on staff and schools. *This is anonymous.
Please complete this survey by Thursday 24th April.
OPPORTUNITIES
ASPA Update
Belinda Hudak
VASSP Deputy President & Principal – Mildura Senior College
The 2025 Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) National Education Summit convened on March 25, 2025, at Parliament House in Canberra, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders—including principals, students, educational focused organizations, policymakers, and department leaders—to engage in a collaborative dialogue about the future of secondary education in Australia.
Day 1 of the Summit opened with the Principals’ Council, bringing together school leaders to discuss key priorities in Australian secondary education. Facilitated by John Cleary and ASPA President Andy Mison, the session emphasized collaboration and set the stage for broader summit discussions on student well-being, leadership, and systemic transformation. The event began with registration and networking over lunch, followed by a welcome address and briefing from Mison. John Cleary outlined summit protocols, ensuring alignment among attendees. Sponsor presentations provided insights into educational initiatives and resources, interspersed with workshops focusing on flourishing students, strengthening leadership, and transforming systems to improve educational equity and excellence.
The interactive workshops allowed participants to explore strategies for fostering student success, enhancing principal leadership, and implementing systemic educational changes. The day concluded with additional sponsor presentations, reinforcing the collaborative efforts between educators and industry partners. The Principals’ Council provided a solid foundation for meaningful discussions and policy recommendations in the days ahead, highlighting the shared commitment to advancing secondary education in Australia.
Summit Themes and Objectives
Building upon the success of the 2024 Summit, this year’s event focused on three interconnected themes:
- Flourishing Students: Exploring strategies to support student well-being and academic success.
- Strengthening Leadership: Enhancing the capabilities and resilience of educational leaders.
- Transforming Systems: Identifying and implementing systemic changes to promote equity and excellence in education.
These themes aimed to shape a progressive, ambitious agenda for building a world-leading public education system that places equity of opportunity for every Australian student at the heart of policy and strengthens the capacity of school communities to lead this important work.
Keynote Address
ASPA President Andy Mison delivered the opening address, emphasizing the pivotal role of principals in shaping education policy and reform. He highlighted the complexities facing the education sector—including technological advancements, social changes, and global challenges—and underscored the necessity for collaborative and effective policymaking that keeps students’ needs at the forefront. This followed his plenary conversation with Federal Education Minister Jason Clare fresh from the new signing of all States to the Better Fairer School Agreement. This is a positive move towards the full funding government schools across the country.
Youth Delegation
A notable feature of the 2025 Summit was the inclusion of a Youth Delegation, organised in partnership with Young Change Agents, the ACT Principals’ Association, and the ACT Education Directorate. This initiative brought together young people aged 15 to 19 from diverse school communities across Australia. Prior to the Summit, these students participated in a workshop at Canberra College to develop their policy perspectives, which they then contributed during the Summit discussions, ensuring that student voices were integral to the conversation about educational reform.
Outcomes and Future Directions
The Summit facilitated robust discussions on the identified themes, fostering a collaborative environment where stakeholders could share insights towards developing actionable strategies. While the Summit served as a platform for dialogue, ASPA intends to compile the insights and recommendations generated into a comprehensive report to inform future policy decisions and initiatives aimed at enhancing equity and excellence in Australian secondary education. This ongoing dialogue underscores ASPA’s commitment to ensuring that every Australian student has access to high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.
VASSP Members
If you would like to receive the ASPA Bulletin and be part of the mailing list, please register here:
https://www.aspa.asn.au/contact
*VASSP values our members’ privacy and will not share member information without authorisation.
Chief Operating Officer’s Report
Amy Rashid
Chief Operating Officer
The Price of “Free”: What Every School Leader Should Know About Hidden Costs in Public Education
By Dr Emma Rowe, Deakin University, published in The Conversation, January 2025
Dr Emma Rowe exposes the creeping privatisation of public schooling, with families paying nearly $2,000 annually in “voluntary” contributions-often to fund core curriculum access.
For school leaders, this isn’t news-it’s confirmation of a growing pressure point:
- Schools rely on parent payments to deliver what should already be funded
- Equity is managed at the school level, not the system level
- “Free education” remains a policy ideal, not a practical reality
“Public schools should be accessible to everyone. Any school fees create potential barriers and access issues for families who cannot afford to pay. They also create gaps between different public schools, with some schools having far more money than others.”
We’re proud to host Dr Rowe and Dr Shepherd at the VASSP Special General Meeting and Leadership Seminar on Friday 16 May at Kooyong Tennis Club.
Join us for an unflinching look at the systems we lead – and the ones we need to challenge.
The Blueprint: What Young People Told Us About Crime, Disconnection and Change
What drives young people into serious offending—and what brings them back?
Dr Stephane Shepherd and the team at 16 Yards asked that question directly to young men from Indigenous, Pasifika and African Australian backgrounds who had contact with the justice system and have since moved on. The result is The Blueprint—a raw and insightful look at the pathways into and out of high-harm offending.
Key themes emerged:
- School disengagement, peer group loyalty, and a need for identity and financial survival
- The influence of social media in escalating violence and shaping street status
- The power of mentors, work, faith, and family in making lasting change
This isn’t about softening expectations. It’s about understanding the conditions that shape behaviour- and being part of the circuit breakers that can change it.
Professional Learning & Upcoming Events
- Mastering the YLC Role – Part 2. Monday 28 April, VASSP Offices
- Introduction to Understanding Power, Wednesday 14 May, Online
- VASSP SGM & Leadership Seminar, Friday 16 May, Kooyong Tennis Club
- VASSP Annual Conference, Thursday 14 & Friday 15 August, Rydges Melbourne
- VASSP AGM & Leadership Seminar, Friday 14 November, Pentridge Coburg
For further information and to register visit VASSP Professional Learning
Industry Updates
Be Ahead of the Game School Education Program
Driven by saturation levels of gambling advertising, rapidly changing technology, and a blurring of the line between gaming and gambling, young people are increasingly at risk of harm from gambling. The Victorian Department of Health, Be Ahead of the Game School Education program is a free secondary school program that helps school communities understand how young people may be affected by gambling and mitigate the risks.
Our program offers:
- free face-to-face and online information sessions for teachers, parents, carers and students
- units of work to incorporate in your curriculum plans across a variety of subject areas
- useful resources for parents and teachers
For more details about this program visit beaheadofthegame.vic.gov.au or email beaheadofthegame@health.vic.gov.au
Ed Leaders Podcast with Shane Smith, Co-founder of Education Perfect
Shane Smith, co-founder of Education Perfect (EP), shares his journey from studying medicine to leading a global EdTech company. His insights on leadership, AI, and innovation offer valuable takeaways for educators and school leaders.
- Start small, iterate fast – Whether in education or business, test, refine, and improve.
- AI as a tool, not a replacement – Used effectively, AI enhances teaching, not replaces it.
- Self-directed learning matters – Take charge of your own professional development.
- Prioritisation is key – Focus on the one thing that makes the biggest impact.
Dean’s Lecture Series: The Science of Learning: What Does It Really Tell Us about Teaching?
Wednesday 7 May 2025
Does the science of learning support traditional chalk-and-talk teaching, or is there room for alternative approaches like inquiry-based learning? Some argue that such methods “don’t work,” but is there a single, universally accepted science of learning? This lecture explores evolving research, its relevance to modern classrooms, and whether a didactic approach overlooks other valuable educational outcomes.
Tickets are free and you can join the event in-person or online. Click here for more information and to book your place.
Department of Education: International Education Division
Call for expression of interest for new foreign arrangements
AGSI will be hosting a free online webinar on March 20. The webinar will explore the establishment of school partnerships as a means of delivering intercultural understanding and capability. Discussion will include existing research on the benefits and effectiveness of school partnerships, case studies and best practice examples of delivery, benefits and outcomes (including school and student testimonials) and resources and tips on how to start a school partnership with an overseas school.
To learn more access the link below: IEAA Student Life & AGSI Webinar – Developing intercultural understanding through school partnerships
Global Learning and Engagement Partnerships: Microsoft Teams discussion board
We are thrilled to share an opportunity to connect with fellow educators through an online forum focused on fostering impactful partnerships. Whether you’re already engaged in a meaningful collaboration or seeking tips, resources, and inspiration to establish or enhance one, this is the space for you.
Join us to share your expertise, explore questions, and showcase illustrations of practice with fellow educators. You’ll also gain access to a wealth of curriculum and professional learning resources.
If you’d like to be added to the Global Learning and Engagement Partnerships page on Microsoft Teams, contact us at: global.learning@education.vic.gov.au
Japanese Sister School Partnership Opportunities
An opportunity is available for secondary schools interested in establishing a sister school partnership with a school in Osaka, Japan. As part of a new education initiative, the Osaka Government is inviting partnerships for all 148 public secondary schools in the Osaka Prefecture. With only a 1–2 hour time difference between Melbourne and Osaka, schools can engage in real-time online learning activities, in addition to the potential for reciprocal visits.
If you would like to express interest in this partnership opportunity, please email global.learning@education.vic.gov.au by March 25, 2025.
Global Youth Forum 2025
Registrations for the 2025 Global Youth Forum (GYF) for students in Years 9 and 10 are now open. The forum will run in two cohorts in 2025: one in Term 2 and another in Term 3.
In this program, students work across Victorian schools and with student peers across the Asia Pacific to critically discuss concepts of global citizenship and identity.
The program’s learning design aligns with the capabilities and cross-curriculum priorities and the Victorian Curriculum F-10 version 2.0. It aims to provide an opportunity for students to explore global challenges, use design thinking to create solutions, and collaborate on a group design project. The program will also help them understand global citizenship, appreciate diverse perspectives, and strengthen their global competency, self-awareness, and leadership skills.
For more details on the program, including dates, and information on how to apply, visit: GYF 2025.
VASSP Project Services
Customised, on-site project support
VASSP offers customised, on-site and independent project support, professional development and logistical support in most areas of school operations.
What services are available?
Project services include but is not limited to:
- Leadership team development workshops
- Leadership coaching – individual and team
- School Improvement Review processes
- Curriculum reviews
Click here for more information and to request a call back to discuss how VASSP Project Services can help you.
- School Policy and Workforce reviews
- Principal preparation – application writing and interview skills
- In-depth individualised support
Regional Meetings
VASSP Field Officers
Regional Group Meetings, 2025
- Term 1: Thursday 6 February, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 2: Thursday 1 May, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 3: Thursday 31 July, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 4: Thursday 16 October, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 1: Tuesday 25 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Tuesday 6 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Tuesday 29 July, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Tuesday 28 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
Term 1:
- Thursday 27 February, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Thursday 3 April, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Term 2:
- Thursday 1 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Thursday 26 June, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Term 3:
- Thursday 31 July, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Thursday 18 September, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Term 4:
- Thursday 16 October, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Thursday 11 December, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Friday 21 March, 10:00am – 12:30pm
- Term 2: Friday 13 June, 10:00am – 12:30pm
- Term 3: Friday 12 September, 10:00am – 12:30pm
- Term 4: Friday 21 November, 10:00am – 12:30pm
- Term 1: Friday 7 March, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 2: Friday 23 May, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 3: Friday 22 August, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 4: Friday 31 October, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 1: Wednesday 19 March, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Wednesday 25 June, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Wednesday 27 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Wednesday 19 November, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Friday 14 March, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Friday 30 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Friday 29 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Friday 7 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Tuesday 11 March, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Tuesday 20 May, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Tuesday 19 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Tuesday 11 November, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Thursday 20 March, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 12 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 11 September, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 20 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 6 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Thursday 22 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Thursday 7 August, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Thursday 6 November, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Wednesday 26 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Wednesday 14 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Wednesday 6 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Wednesday 15 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 27 March, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 19 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 4 September, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 4 December, 8:30am – 10:30am
Friends of VASSP
Messages and updates from friends of VASSP
Ourschool Update Report
Schools building their alumni networks
This year, 27 partner schools have subscribed to receive Ourschool’s help to develop student-centred alumni programs that support their students and build school pride.
Some schools started this year – Berwick, Copperfield, Hallam, Pascoe Vale Girls and Wangaratta. Others are at various stages of growing their alumni programs.
The list below shows our current partner schools:
If you happen to be a principal who would like to know more about our alumni service, I encourage you to contact principals on the list whom you may know or whose schools are nearby.
You can also contact Michelle Buxton, Ourschool’s Operations Manager, on admin@ourschool.net.au to find out more.
We have one intake of new schools each year, with schools required to confirm their subscription in term four for a term one start the following year.
The Victorian Department of Education supports our work, along with other great partners.
Melbourne Metro
- Balwyn HS
- Berwick College
- Copperfield College
- Cranbourne SC
- Cranbourne East SC
- Elisabeth Murdoch College
- Frankston HS
- Hallam SC
- Hampton Park SC
- Keilor Downs College
- Koonung SC
- Mount Waverley SC
- Pascoe Vale Girls SC
- Point Cook Senior SC
- Swinburne Senior SC
- Wyndham Central College
Regional Victoria
- Beaufort SC
- Matthew Flinders Girls SC
- Newcomb SC
- North Geelong SC
- Northern Bay College
- Phoenix Community College
- Wangaratta HS
- Warrnambool College
- Western Heights College
- Woodmans Hill College
Queensland
- Helensvale State High School
More updates available via Ourschool’s LinkedIn page or Ourschool’s website
Partner Messages
Partner messages
Taking time for your own education can be tricky. Aware Super’s self-service education platform Learn, provides you access to resources that help you plan, optimise and manage your financial future with confidence. From quick video overviews and explainers to in-depth education sessions with our experts, you’ll find super helpful content available that fits in with your busy schedule.
Explore Learn: https://aware.com.au/member/learn/
The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership (the Academy) offers evidence-informed professional learning that will empower you to create career progression steps. Explore the highlights below or visit the Academy website for further professional learning opportunities.
The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership (the Academy) offers evidence-informed professional learning that will empower you to create career progression steps. Explore the highlights below or visit the Academy website for further professional learning opportunities.
Facilitator Training: Numeracy Pedagogy and Practice – Commences 29 April
Academy facilitator training will provide you with the skills, knowledge and dispositions needed to facilitate the Numeracy Pedagogy and Practice program.
Principal and Assistant Principal Mentoring – On demand
Leverage the support, experience and guidance of a highly skilled former Victorian government school principal to enhance your leadership capability and advance your school’s learning environment.
Victorian Aspiring Principal Assessment – On demand
Prepare for your appointment to a principal role with expert guidance and strengths-based assessment.
Subscribe to the Academy Connect newsletter to stay up to date with professional learning. Phone: 03 8199 2900
Provisional Appointments
VASSP would like to congratulate the following provisionally appointed leaders.
Jamie Daff – Rushworth P-12 College
Jane Thornton – Glen Eira College
Daniel Coco – Narre Warren Sth P-12 College
Ryan Mills – Nth Geelong Secondary College
Carolyn O’Reilly – Officer Secondary College
Aaron Davis – Mordialloc College
Alexis Watson – Norwood Secondary College
Melissa Travers – Essendon Keilor College
Joanne Drago – Essendon Keilor College
Ryan Hon – Maffra Secondary College
Lucy Rimmer – Balwyn High School
Daniel Keane – Gleneagles Secondary College
Melanie Paxton – Elisabeth Murdoch College
Katie Hart – Hazel Glen College