INFORM Newsletter
2025, Term 2, Issue 4
President's Report
Colin Axup
VASSP President
With the term drawing to a close, and winter and the flu season well and truly upon us, we can reflect on the idea that is never a dull moment in schools, or in the education system for that matter. This term has been no exception.
The issue of consultation has been an ongoing one. In the last newsletter I wrote: “Consultation is not a procedural task; it is a moral, and legal, obligation.” As I stated, along with the other principal organisations, we submitted a simple consultation model to the Department. Pleasingly, Department staff have drafted a policy document based on the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Public Participation Spectrum. The spectrum defines increasing impact on the decision based on five terms: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate and Empower. Since submitting the model and discussing the policy, we are seeing improved consultation. However, there is still much to improve to ensure the voice of the principal class, the experts, are appropriately consulted.
Earlier this term the lack of consultation about the Enhanced Bail Supervision and Support (EBSS) policy was at the forefront of our concerns. Five weeks later, the upcoming changes to Ministerial Order 1125 Procedures for Suspension and Expulsion of Students in Government Schools announced on the front page of the Herald Sun created further concern. Notwithstanding the nature of the announcement, it is important for our members to note that when we were first approached for comment on the mooted changes, we pushed back against the idea. However, the changes will be made in time for the start of Term 3. In my comments to the media, I made it quite clear that principals were not part of the justice system and that equally, it was not the sole responsibility of schools to manage the egregious behaviour of a small number of school age people.
The most important distinction to make is that the changes will mean that principals may use this authority to take action where an event that takes place outside of school has a direct impact on the safety and/or wellbeing of students and staff while they are at school. The challenge will be managing community expectations.
After a wait of nearly six months, the report of the Independent review of administration and compliance activities in government schools has been released. The report, with seven (7) key findings and twenty eight (28) individual recommendations, is available through the School Update of 3 June. The Association will now consider its response to the report, noting that the government and department have already committed to six of the recommendations.
Each year AITSL release its report from the Australian Teacher Workforce Survey. The teacher and leadership workforce has remained broadly stable in both demographics and experience over time.
Workforce demographics:
- 17% of the workforce is aged 60 or older (at or near retirement).
- 66% have more than 10 years of teaching experience.
- 20% are early career teachers (first 5 years), with a higher concentration in remote and very remote locations.
Gender composition:
- 78% of the workforce are women.
- 22% are men, but they hold 30% of leadership positions—an ongoing over-representation.
Employment arrangements:
- 69% of teachers are on ongoing contracts.
- Full-time work is the dominant mode across the workforce.
- Only 48% of early career teachers hold ongoing roles; many are in short-term or casual contracts.
- Despite this, 81% of early career teachers and 85% in remote locations work full-time hours.
Workload pressures:
- Full-time classroom teachers report a median of 50 hours worked per week during term—slightly down from 2019.
- Average face-to-face teaching time:
- 25 hours in primary
- 21 hours in secondary
- Lesson planning and administration add significantly to overall hours.
- For middle and senior leaders, around 50% of non-teaching time is spent on student interactions and admin.
Career intentions and retention:
- 35% of educators are uncertain about their long-term career plans.
- 39% plan to leave the profession before retirement, largely due to workload and wellbeing concerns.
- Nearly half of teachers under 30 are unsure about continuing in teaching.
- Over 50% of non-practising teachers would consider returning if conditions improved.
Encouragingly, over half of non-practising teachers indicated a willingness to return, should conditions improve.
While the data is national, we can extrapolate this data into our local context. Meeting regularly with my counterparts the other states and territories reinforces that we are all experiencing very similar problems in our schools. The point of differentiation is the responses to these challenges from our respective systems.
And finally I would like to congratulate Life Member of VASSP and former long-time principal of Bendigo Senior Secondary College, Dale Pearce, on his appointment as chair of the Board of the VIT.
Look after yourselves, take a break and remember that your Association is here for you. I look forward to seeing you at our conference in August
Need to Know
THE SILENT COST - 2025 REPORT
The groundbreaking research led by Dr Adam Fraser and Dr John Molineux from Deakin University is the final report from a preliminary nationwide study published in 2024 involving 2,285 educators, which collected 1,068 stories of trauma and 107 detailed interviews.
This report contains all the findings from the research as well as multi-level strategies and recommendations (for individuals, colleagues, school leaders, schools, Education Department, Government and Systems).
What is Secondary Traumatic Stress?
Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS) is the emotional stress that results when an individual hears about or witnesses the first hand trauma of another person. It also includes the distress of trying to manage the significant changes in behaviour that usually occur in an individual that has experienced trauma.
2025 TAX TIME RESOURCES FOR TEACHERS
Tailored tips for your industry
Need a hand with your deductions this tax time?
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has a suite of tailored guides for (*almost) every occupation.
Use them to learn which:
• deductions you can claim
• income you must declare
• records you need to keep.
Visit www.ato.gov.au/teacher
Records, records, records
Planning to claim work-related expenses this year?
Remember, to claim a deduction for any work expense:
• you must have spent the money yourself and you weren’t reimbursed
• the expense must directly relate to earning your income, and
• you must have records.
In most cases, your records need to include written evidence from a supplier – like a receipt – that shows the cost, name of the supplier, date it was purchased, nature of the expense, and date the document was produced. You may also need other specific records, for example, a logbook for car expenses.
A bank or credit card statement (on its own) usually isn’t enough evidence to support your claim.
The myDeductions tool in the ATO app is the perfect way to keep track of all your receipts and records in one place. It’s easy to use, check out this video on the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Instagram account.
For more information on keeping the right records for tax time, visit ato.gov.au/keepingrecords
Deductible donations
Did you support your favourite charity this year? Consider the following points to see if you may be able to claim it in your tax return:
• Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status: You can only claim a tax deduction for a gift or donation to an organisation that has the status of a DGR. You can check here.
• Type of gift or donation: It must be money, property, or financial assets such as shares.
• A true gift or donation: You can only claim a gift or donation if you voluntarily transferred money or property without receiving, or expecting to receive, any material benefit or advantage in return.
• Check the conditions: Your donation must comply with any relevant gift conditions. For some DGRs, the income tax law adds conditions affecting the types of deductible gifts they can receive.
• Records: To claim a deduction, you must have a record of your donation, such as a receipt.
If you meet all of the conditions above, you can claim a deduction. Visit ato.gov.au/giftsdonations
Strengthen your cybersecurity habits to stay safe this tax time
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has reported more than a 300% increase in email impersonation scams in the last year.
ATO impersonation scams are generally at their peak at tax time. Scammers know Australians are focused on lodging their tax return, updating their personal information and may be anticipating refunds.
There are things you can do to protect yourself:
• Download the ATO app to securely, quickly, and easily manage your tax and super on the go.
• Always access ATO online services directly via ato.gov.au, my.gov.au or the ATO app. Do not click on links or attachments.
• Use myID and set to the highest identity strength you can achieve. It’s the most secure and flexible way to access ATO online services.
Follow these 3 steps to protect yourself from scams this tax time:
- Stop: Never share your myGov sign in details. Only share personal information if you trust the person and they genuinely require it. If in doubt, don’t disclose anything.
- Check: Take a second to check. Ask yourself if it could be fake. Is it really the ATO? If a link or QR code is directing you to provide information or to log into an online portal, don’t click on it.
- Protect: Act quickly. If an interaction doesn’t feel right, don’t engage with it. Visit the ATO website or phone the ATO on 1800 008 540 to check.
Find out more at ato.gov.au/scamsafe
LAST CHANCE: 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. On-site accommodation is selling fast, so book now to avoid missing out!
Get your tickets here: VASSP Conference 2025
TEACHER SHORTAGE IMPACT SURVEY
Survey link: Term 2, 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.
OPPORTUNITIES
Bank First, a longstanding and valued business partner of the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP), is proud to sponsor the 2025 VASSP Professional Learning Awards.
These awards support Principal Class members who are committed to growing their impact as system leaders – those who lead strategically, influence beyond the school level, and contribute to the advancement of public education in Victoria.
Applications close Monday 1 July 2025
Two awards are available:
- 1 x Principal Award valued up to $3,000
- 1 x Campus Principal or Assistant Principal Award valued up to $2,000
Recipients will use the award to undertake a future-focused professional learning activity that builds their leadership capacity and benefits the broader system.
For more information and to submit your application please visit this page.
CEP PD Online – Winter Series
This season, designed by educators for educators, features dynamic and interactive sessions covering topics such as Leading and Teaching in Multi-Age Classrooms, Change Management, Adaptive Leadership and Risk Management and Student Agency. All sessions are completely free to attend – participants just need to sign up here. Registrants will also receive the session recordings after each event.
Upcoming sessions:
25 June 2025 – Adaptive Leadership and Risk Management
Speakers: Ben Nicholson, Executive Principal, Werrimul P-12 School, Nicholas Oddy, Leadership Resilience Group and Stacey Harper, Senior Professional Practice Officer, Victorian Institute of Teaching.
2 July 2025 – Student Agency
Speakers: Adam Wilson, Principal, Stirling North Primary School, Daniel Forrest, Principal, Donald Primary School and Peter Shearer, former Principal.
Skyline Education Foundation Australia
Empowering high ability students facing economic and social adversity to reach their full potential.
As of 2025, Skyline have supported a total of over 760 students from across 47 Department of Education schools across Victoria!
Skyline support VCE students from government secondary schools who are at risk of:
Exiting the school system early to take on significant responsibilities, such as caring for themselves, their siblings, or their families.
Not engaging or reaching their academic potential – whether due to social pressure, low self-esteem, or academic disengagement. Receiving minimal support at school, often overlooked because they appear to be “coping.”
Quietly “falling through the cracks” while under financial pressure, trauma, emotional distress, or complex family circumstances.
The Skyline Program supports students by investing in four key areas. These areas are vital for equipping students with the best chance of success at school – and beyond.
The Skyline Program supports students by investing in four key areas. These areas are vital for equipping students with the best chance of success at school – and beyond.
Financial
Reimbursements encompass a range of educational expenses for both students and parents. These include items like school levies, fees, textbooks, uniforms, stationery, as well as educational tools and materials.
Community
As students move through their secondary and tertiary education, they form a network of like-minded peers, who, continue to support each other well into their future endeavours.
Education
Our students attend workshops focused on personal growth and development, including masterclasses, and residential camps. These activities take place outside of school hours and are offered to students free of charge including FREE access to Hatch resources and programs.
Wraparound Support
Our Program establishes a comprehensive system of educational, emotional, and practical support and resources. This is achieved by creating a network that surrounds students and addresses their unique needs.
Learn how to become a Partner School today
Contact: Samantha MacRae (CEO): samantha@skylinefoundation.org.au | 0429 459 089 skylinefoundation.org.au
Skyline Hatch is Skyline Education Foundation’s social enterprise. Hatch exists to reduce education inequity by equipping VCE students across Victoria with high-impact, VCAA curriculum-aligned study resources.
Hatch has exciting opportunities offered at NO COST to Government school VCE students:
Exam Revision Series
Exam Revision Series – FREE for ALL Government School Students
In partnership with the Department of Education Victoria, Strategic Partnerships Program
When: September School Holidays -29 September to 3 October
Format: Interactive live online masterclasses with recordings via the HatchHub Subjects: 12 popular U3&4 subjects
Features: Sample answers, exam strategies, relatable presenters Over 5,000 students and teachers supported in 2024
For more information go to skyline.org.au/vce-exam-revision-series or register your U3&4 VCE cohort at bit.ly /hatch2025ers_schools
VCE Hack Study Skllls Series
VCE Hack Study Skills Series – FREE for High Ability Students
In partnership with the Department of Education, Victorian Challenge & Enrichment Series
Practical study hacks and wellbeing strategies designed for immediate impact Live Online Masterclasses throughout the year
On-demand video lessons with worksheets, access any time, anywhere
Key Topics: Time Management, Procrastination, Study Habits, Motivation, Exam tips
For more information go to arc.educationapps.vic.gov.au/event/9508/vce-hack-study -skills-on-demand-short-course-2025
Hatch presenters are high achieving recent graduates, including Skyline alumni, who can relate to the experiences and challenges faced by VCE students and are aspirational role models.
To learn more about Skyline Hatch programs
Contact: Mel Wilson: melinda@skylinefoundation.org.au | 03 9968 7796 skyline.org .au
Education Services Australia
AI Readiness: Preparing teachers for safe and effective use of GenAI
Teachers across the country are navigating how to use generative AI safely and effectively in schools. In response, Education Services Australia (ESA), in partnership with Microsoft, has developed an online training program aligned to the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and the Australian Framework for Generative AI in Schools.
The course supports teachers to explore how GenAI can enhance personalised learning and classroom practice. It also forms part of Microsoft’s broader commitment to build GenAI capability across Australia and New Zealand, aiming to train one million people by 2026.
ASPA Update
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
AI in Schools: Building on the Foundations
The rise of generative AI continues to influence classroom practice, assessment, operations and school leadership. In Victoria, the Department’s Generative AI in Schools Policy provides a clear framework, outlining expectations around ethics, privacy and academic integrity, and offering schools guidance on safe and appropriate use.
As implementation progresses, many schools are exploring how generative AI can support teaching and learning. This includes its use for differentiation, feedback, content creation and planning. As with any emerging technology, consistent system support remains important to ensure schools have the confidence, capability and clarity to apply these tools effectively.
Internationally, jurisdictions such as Singapore, China and the UAE are embedding AI into curriculum design, teacher training and national learning strategies. While Victoria must continue to balance a crowded curriculum, digital and AI literacy are becoming increasingly relevant considerations.
Professional learning matters more than ever. VASSP’s PL is evidence-informed, aligned to school priorities, and designed to be practical, collaborative, and sustainable. It reflects the complexity of leadership in 2025: workforce pressures, wellbeing, community engagement, leadership, and system reform. VASSP’s PL program is curated around education trends, policy foresight, member feedback, and quiet observations; balancing system alignment with professional agency and creating time and space for leaders to reflect, connect, and act. Because the work is too complex to do alone.
This year’s conference features Sami Mäkeläinen, a strategic foresight leader and ethical AI expert. Sami is a Senior Research Affiliate with the Institute for the Future, an Adjunct Senior Industry Fellow at RMIT FORWARD, and founder of Transition Level.
He brings a balanced, practical perspective on AI in education, from risk and ethics to strategy and implementation.
To assist in preparing a bespoke conference presentation for VASSP members, Sami Mäkeläinen has developed a short questionnaire exploring school leaders’ current use of, and perspectives on, generative AI.
Your responses will help shape a session that reflects the real opportunities, challenges, and questions facing school leadership.
We encourage all members to complete the survey by Monday 21 July.
Click HereProfessional Learning & Upcoming Events
- How to Have Challenging Conversations, Monday 4 August; Wednesday 6 August, Online
- 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
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: Wednesday 29 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: Wednesday 21 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
Southwest Victoria Term 2 Regional Meeting & Professional Learning Dinner
Thank you to all who joined us for a memorable evening at the VASSP Southwest Victoria Term 2 Regional Meeting and Professional Learning Dinner.
We were fortunate to hear from Acting Deputy Secretary Chris Thompson and Deputy Secretary Kate Rattigan, who shared valuable updates and reflections. Equally impactful were the contributions from our members—leaders working in regional and rural communities, many of whom are navigating the ongoing impacts of drought.
Your stories, insights, and shared experiences made this event a powerful reminder of the importance of connection, collaboration, and mutual support across our network.
Friends of VASSP
Messages and updates from friends of VASSP
Ourschool Update Report
Alumni support students & teachers
The alumni sessions that Alumni Program Coordinators organise and run for teachers and students are the focal point of Ourschool’s service. They’re also a main KPI that coordinators report on to their school leadership team, their school community and Ourschool.
Coordinators are also required to publish a short item about each alumni session on their school’s socials. Below are some abbreviated examples of such items. Each of these schools started their alumni programs this year.
Recently VCE psychology students heard from alum Caroline Evans, who is now a local practicing Psychologist. She gave advice about careers in psychology and what being a psychologist is really like. See above.
No one understands the realities of year 12, with its tricky balance of studying, social lives and exams, like recent graduates. Fresh out of school, Ethan, Tarran, Nikolina, Antonio, Bayley, and Harrison spoke to the senior students about their time at Berwick College and their chosen pathways, into law, teaching, sports & leadership and the Australian Defence Force.
Copperfield College’s year 12 economics class welcomed back alum, John Vargas, a 1999 graduate. John is a senior manager and economist in Victoria’s Department of Treasury and Finance.
More updates available via Ourschool’s LinkedIn page or Ourschool’s website
Partner Messages
Partner messages
Made to engage with learners today
Online, in class, at home. Atomi brings fresh ways to reach new minds, helping teachers create engaging and impactful learning for every high school student. With curriculum-aligned bite-sized videos and interactive content, dynamic assessment tools and actionable insights, all driven by powerful intelligence.
Where are you on your retirement journey? Get help on your retirement journey or check out our My retirement planner – more than just a super calculator, it provides a snapshot to see how close you are to reaching your goals.
General advice only. Consider your objectives, financial situation, or needs, which have not been accounted for in this information and read the PDS and TMD at aware.com.au/pds before acting. Issued by Aware Super Pty Ltd (ABN 11 118 202 672, AFSL 293340) trustee of Aware Super (ABN 53 226 460 365).
The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership (the Academy) offers a wide range of evidence-informed professional learning designed to advance principals skills from great to exceptional. Explore the highlights below or visit the Academy website for further professional learning opportunities.
Leading Mathematics – commences 22 July
Create a school-wide mathematics improvement strategy to strengthen mathematics learning, teaching and leadership at classroom, team and school level.
Women Leading in Education – commences 30 July
Become an impactful leader, discover your leadership vision and learn how to reach your full potential by developing your skills and confidence.
Evolve: New Principals – commences 31 July
Build your strategic, people and technical skills, create strong support networks, and feel supported as you establish yourself in the principal role.
Leadership Coaching – on demand
Receive professional coaching that will challenge and support you to be a highly effective leader and empower you to reach greater levels of performance.
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.