INFORM Newsletter
2026, Term 2, Issue 3
President's Report
Belinda Hudak
VASSP President
Welcome to Term 2. I hope the recent break provided an opportunity to rest and recharge ahead of what is traditionally a busy and demanding term.
I want to acknowledge the ongoing challenges associated with the current AEU industrial action. These situations can place additional pressure on school leaders as you work to balance operational requirements, staff relations and the continuity of student learning. It is important to reinforce that this action is directed toward the government, not principals, and that maintaining respectful, professional relationships within our school communities remains critical — particularly as we navigate the possibility of rolling stoppages.
Please know that you are not managing this alone. VASSP is here to support you. Our Field Officers are available to provide advice and guidance, and I encourage you to reach out if you need support. I am also available and welcome direct contact from members as we work through this period together.
We have also recently provided feedback on the proposed changes to the Victorian Institute of Teaching’s Permission to Teach model. VASSP supports the intent to move toward a more streamlined approach; however, we continue to advocate strongly for a reduction in administrative burden on principals. We have also highlighted the importance of flexibility within the model, particularly for VET teachers, to enable them to teach across related areas where appropriate and support the breadth of programs offered in schools.
In addition, VASSP has made a submission on the future of the School to Work (STW) program, outlining key considerations for ensuring it continues to effectively support students’ post-school pathways. You can view the submission here.
Term 2 is always full. Alongside the usual pace of teaching and learning, many of you are preparing for the GAT in June, commencing transition activities for 2027, and continuing to manage the ongoing complexities that contribute to increasing workload. Your leadership in maintaining clarity, focus and care for your staff and students in this environment is recognised and deeply valued.
VASSP will continue to advocate on your behalf while also providing practical support. Our professional learning program for Term 2 is designed specifically for school leaders and their teams, and I encourage you to consider how these opportunities may support your context. I am also looking forward to our VASSP Conference in August — thank you to those who have already registered. It is shaping up to be a valuable opportunity for connection, learning and shared leadership.
As always, VASSP stands beside you — supporting, advocating and representing. Please do not hesitate to reach out as needs arise.
Wishing you a strong and steady start to the term.
Need to Know
GIVE YOUR FEEDBACK ON THE SCHOOL STAFF SURVEY
ACU is reviewing the Victorian Department of Education’s School Staff Survey (SSS) and is inviting input from school leaders.
We are keen to hear what’s working well, what could be improved, and what would be most valuable for you and your teams. Feedback can be provided via a brief 10-minute survey or a focus group of up to 45 minutes.
To express interest in participating, please contact eduresearch@acu.edu.au.
We greatly value your time and perspective. Your input will play an important role in strengthening the relevance and usefulness of the survey for schools.
Feedback is requested to be completed by Friday, 15 May.
VASSP MEMBER SURVEY: VSBA PRIORITIES AND EXPERIENCES
This survey seeks to identify the experiences and priorities of school leaders working with the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA). Your feedback will guide VASSP’s advocacy and discussions with the VSBA about improving communication, streamlining processes, and reducing the administrative burden on principals.
VASSP Member Survey: VSBA Priorities and Experiences 2026 – Fill in form
PRINCIPAL SUPPORT UNIT
The PSU provides expert advice and support on complex human resource and workforces issues. I am happy to make school visits and provide confidential, tailored guidance and workshops to principal class officers and principal networks to address common human resource challenges. Specifically, I can assist with the interpretation of the Department of Education’s human resource policies, the industrial agreement (currently the Victorian Government Schools Agreement 2022), workforce planning and managing performance.
This support is ongoing and can be accessed at any time.
If a principal, or principal network, would like support from the PSU, they can contact me at:
Jonelle White, A/Manager
7022 1020 or 0402 436 330
2026 VICTORIAN EDUCATION EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Nominations for the 2026 Victorian Education Excellence Awards (VEEA) are open.
This year, the VEEA marks 25 years of recognising the inspirational educators and staff who empower children and young people with the skills, courage, and curiosity to succeed in life.
Victorian government school staff may nominate themselves, a colleague, or their team for an award. However, principals cannot self-nominate and must be nominated by a peer or colleague for outstanding primary or secondary principal categories.
Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony on Friday 23 October 2026. For more information, refer to the VEEA website.
Nominations close on Tuesday 26 May 2026 at 11:59 pm
For any enquiries, please email excellence.awards@education.vic.gov.au.
OPPORTUNITIES
Bank First, a longstanding and valued business partner of the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals (VASSP), is proud to sponsor the 2026 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 Wednesday 1 July 2026
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.
Bank First's Teaching Initiatives Program
ASPA Update
by Belinda Hudak, VASSP President
2026 ASPA National Summit
The 2026 Australian Secondary Principals’ Association National Summit brought together public secondary school leaders, policymakers and education stakeholders from across the country for two days of focused dialogue and collaboration on the future of education. I was pleased to attend alongside Deputy VASSP President Tamy Stubley (Melbourne Girls College), Mallee State Committee Representative Lewis Gunn (Mildura Senior College), and a strong contingent from Bendigo Senior Secondary College. The Summit continues to build on the momentum and influence of previous years, reinforcing its position as the premier national forum for advancing public secondary education through collaboration, research and shared leadership expertise.
Across the two days, the Summit brought together a diverse and influential mix of school leaders, senior policymakers, politicians, researchers, system leaders and student representatives. This breadth of participation ensured that the voices of those working most closely with young people remained central to the conversation. Day 1 centred on evidence-informed professional dialogue, with a strong focus on student wellbeing, leadership capability and the evolving demands placed on schools. Presentations and discussions featured leading voices from across the profession, including ASPA President Andy Mison, facilitator John Cleary and a range of national researchers and system leaders. Day 2 shifted to a national policy lens, including engagement with the Hon Jason Clare, who provided an update on national reform, including progress of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement and emerging priorities to support student outcomes and principal wellbeing. Also speaking was Hon Julian Leeser MP and Shadow Minister for Education Senator Penny Allman-Payne Australian Greens.
A consistent theme throughout the Summit was the importance of collaboration in shaping meaningful and sustainable reform. There was a clear acknowledgement that no single part of the system can address current challenges in isolation. Strong partnerships between schools, systems and government will be critical in ensuring that reform is both achievable and impactful. Discussions highlighted the increasing complexity of school leadership, the need to balance academic achievement with student wellbeing, and the importance of reducing administrative burden so that leaders can focus on teaching and learning. There was also a strong emphasis on ensuring that policy settings are grounded in the realities of schools, with practical, implementable approaches prioritised over compliance-driven responses.
Speakers across the Summit included:
- Meg Brighton – Deputy Secretary, Schools and Youth Group, Commonwealth Department of Education
- Stephen Gniel CEO, ACARA
- Tim Bullard – CEO, Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL)
- Theresa Dicke – Professor, Australian Catholic University
- Jane Wilkinson – Professor, Monash University
- Chris Dolan – Researcher, University of South Australia
- Pat Thomson – Professor, University of South Australia
- Jenny Gore – Professor, University of Newcastle
The Summit also reinforced the importance of investing in leadership capability and support. As the role of the principal continues to expand, there is a growing need for targeted professional learning, access to timely advice and strengthened wellbeing supports. The announcement of national work to support principal wellbeing, including reflective supervision, was a welcome acknowledgement of these pressures and the need for structured support.
The Summit provided a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues from across Australia, engage with leading thinkers and contribute directly to the national conversation on educational policy and practice. It reinforced the critical role of principal voice in shaping reform and the importance of maintaining strong, coordinated advocacy to ensure that the needs of school leaders and their communities are clearly understood and acted upon at a national level.
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
Pathways, not pipelines: building clearer pathways to principalship
A recent report from the South Australian Secondary Principals Association, Pathways to Principalship, offers a timely reflection with national insights that resonate strongly in Victoria. A “merit selection paradox” sits at the centre. On paper, processes are structured and transparent. In practice, confidence is mixed.
- Written applications act as a gatekeeper
- Panel processes lack consistency
- Perceptions of bias persist
Over time, trust erodes. Aspiration follows. Capable leaders opt out.
What builds leaders | What gets in the way |
Leaders develop through:
| Barriers remain consistent:
|
The report calls for comprehensive training to strengthen process and leadership capability across the system. Quality merit selection training builds strategic thinking, evidence-informed practice and reflective capability beyond selection contexts.
Implications for VASSP
We continue to see strong demand for:
- leadership coaching
- middle leader development
- application and progression support
Not because leaders lack capability, but because the system lacks coherence. Our role is to strengthen conditions through clearer pathways, relevant learning, stronger networks and greater consistency. This is not about accelerating leaders. It is about ensuring those ready can see a pathway and trust it.
In practice: across VASSP this term
Regional Groups continue to lead context-based professional learning, including the VASSP Southwest Victoria Leadership Dinner & Meeting. Across regions, in-house expertise are supporting local priorities. State Committee remains a critical forum, bringing regional insight to shape advocacy and professional learning, and strengthening connection with emerging leaders through the long running Pathways to Leadership and our Assistant Principal Seminars.
Expressions of Interest -
State Committee Vacancies
Following recent vacancies, VASSP invites Expressions of Interest for two General Representative positions on State Committee for the remainder of the year.
State Committee is central to the work of the association. It brings member voice directly into VASSP’s advocacy, professional learning and system engagement. This is an opportunity to contribute beyond your school and influence the direction of the profession.
We are seeking Principal Class members who:
- are engaged with the work of the association
- bring insight from their context and region
- are willing to contribute to system-level discussion and decision-making
This role offers the opportunity to:
- represent members and shape collective priorities
- contribute to advocacy and professional learning focus
- strengthen connection across schools and regions
The appointment will be made by the VASSP Executive in accordance with the VASSP Constitution.
How to apply
Members can access the EOI application form by logging in via their VASSP account
Professional Learning & Upcoming Events
VASSP Conference 2026
Following a sold-out event in 2025, registrations are now open for the 2026 VASSP Conference. Click here for more information and to secure your place at our early-bird rates.
Join principals and school leaders from across the state for practical learning, strong professional connections and shared insight aligned to Stronger Together: Leading with Impact.
For further information and to register for events visit VASSP Professional Learning
Also coming up:
- Assistant Principal Connections Seminar – Friday 22 May, VASSP Offices
- Applying for Principal Class Positions – Tuesday 9 June, VASSP Offices
- AGM and Leadership Seminar – Friday 13 November, Pentridge
For further information and to register for events visit VASSP Professional Learning
Industry Updates
Nominations open for the Dr Lawrie Shears Outstanding Global Teaching and Learning Award
Nominations for the 2026 Dr Lawrie Shears Outstanding Global Teaching and Learning Award are now open. The award is part of the Victorian Education Excellence Awards (VEEAs) that provide winners of each category with professional development grants of up to $25,000. This year, the VEEA marks 25 years of recognising the inspirational educators and staff who empower children and young people with the skills, courage, and curiosity to succeed in life.
The Dr Lawrie Shears Outstanding Global Teaching and Learning Award recognises school teams that demonstrate excellence in global learning and engagement at their school and provide their students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
For more information on the eligibility criteria for each award category and how to nominate, refer to the VEEA website.
Nominations close on 26 May 2026 and can be made through the online nomination system, Award Force.
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
- School Policy and Workforce reviews
- Principal preparation – application writing and interview skills
- In-depth individualised support
Regional Meetings
VASSP Field Officers
Regional Group Meetings, 2026
- Term 1: Thursday 5 February, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Thursday 30 April, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Thursday 23 July, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Thursday 15 October, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Tuesday 17 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Tuesday 19 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Tuesday 28 July, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Tuesday 27 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
Term 1:
- Thursday 19 February, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 26 March, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 2:
- Thursday 7 May, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 11 June, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 3:
- Thursday 30 July, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 10 September, 9:30am – 11:30am
Term 4:
- Thursday 29 October, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Thursday 10 December, 9:30am – 11:30am
- Term 1: Friday 13 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Friday 15 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Friday 4 September, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Friday 4 December, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Term 1:
- Wednesday 25 February, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Term 2:
- Wednesday 20 May, 9:00am – 11:00am
Term 3:
- Wednesday 26 August, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Term 4:
- Tuesday 13 October, 10:30am – 12:30pm
- Wednesday 28 October, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Wednesday 18 November, 8:00am – 10:00am
- Term 1: Wednesday 11 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Wednesday 17 June, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Wednesday 2 September, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Wednesday 25 November, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Friday 6 March, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 2: Friday 22 May, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 3: Friday 28 August, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 4: Friday 6 November, 9:00am – 11:00am
- Term 1: Tuesday 10 March, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Tuesday 2 June, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Tuesday 25 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Tuesday 17 November, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Thursday 26 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 4 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 27 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 19 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 5 March, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 2: Thursday 21 May, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 3: Thursday 6 August, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 4: Thursday 12 November, 9:30am – 12:00pm
- Term 1: Wednesday 11 February, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Wednesday 6 May, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Wednesday 5 August, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Wednesday 4 November, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 1: Thursday 19 March, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 2: Thursday 18 June, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 3: Thursday 3 September, 8:30am – 10:30am
- Term 4: Thursday 22 October, 8:30am – 10:30am
Friends of VASSP
Messages and updates from friends of VASSP
Ourschool Update Report
Steady growth in alumni networks for public high schools
Our latest annual report, published recently on Ourschool’s website, shows more school leaders are wanting to unlock the supportive power of their school alumni.
State education departments are also catching on, realising that alumni are ambassadors for public school education, while also bringing goodwill, pride and inspiration into their old schools.
In Victoria, the education department is planning to showcase public school alumni in its communications.
In NSW, the state’s education department has created a NSW public school alumni page on its website.
The page is devoted to encouraging and helping alumni to connect with their old school and it features the department’s alumni ambassador program, highlighting 50 prominent public school alumni. Click here to see the NSW department’s page.
Please click here to view Ourschool’s latest annual report, for an insight into the growth of alumni networks, our progress in 2025, some challenges, and a list of the schools we helped last year.
More updates available via Ourschool’s LinkedIn page or Ourschool’s website
Partner Messages
Partner messages
With easy access to student performance dashboards and snapshot reports, Atomi lets teachers differentiate their approach based on individual needs.
The Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership delivers world-class professional learning and resources that strengthen teaching and leadership, improve student outcomes and elevate the profession.
Explore the highlights below or visit the Academy website for further professional learning opportunities.
- Thursday 7 May 2026 – online
This transformative program offering online and blended intakes supports new principals to thrive as leaders. You will explore personalised learning focusing on developing your strategic, technical and people leadership skills.
- Tuesday 26 May – East Melbourne
This 3-month program invites you and 3 members of your leadership team to develop the teamwork and leadership skills required to implement and sustain effective school-wide improvement aimed at achieving your school’s specific strategic goals.
Cultivating effective teams with Dr Ryan Dunn
- Monday 1 June 2026 – Moe
This full day workshop and online follow-up session will equip middle leaders with the skills required to turn their plans to reality and build high-performing teams capable of driving projects to completion.
Fostering Culturally Inclusive Schools with Pearl Subban
- Thursday 4 June 2026 – Bairnsdale
At this full day workshop, which features 2 online check-in sessions, you will grow your understanding of cultural awareness. Focusing on the Outer Gippsland area, you will explore practical strategies to create culturally responsive and inclusive learning environments where every student feels they belong.
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.
Jacob Keirnan – Craigieburn Secondary College