Parents as Partners 2027

Dear Parents and Carers

Our strong sense of community is one of the things that makes St Columba’s so special. It relies on parents and caregivers who generously share their time, ideas and experience.

We are now seeking nominations for our P&F Executive Committee and Catholic School Advisory Council.

Our P&F strengthens connections across our community by supporting events, parent engagement, advocacy and fundraising initiatives. Our School Advisory Council works collaboratively with me, providing advice and valuable perspectives on the school’s strategic direction, planning and financial stewardship.

I warmly encourage you to consider nominating if you have a genuine desire to contribute positively and work with others for the benefit of our students and school community.

Your involvement can make a real difference, and I would be very grateful for your support.

We are seeking nominations for members for 2027.

School Advisory Council:

• Seeking up to six members

• Only one current member remains on the SAC for 2027; all other members have reached maximum tenure or will no longer have children at the school.

Parents and Friends Executive Committee (P&F):

• Seeking four Executive members
• No current members remain on the P&F for 2027; all have reached maximum tenure or will no longer have children at the school.

Nominations:

• Open NOW
• Close: Friday 30 October

Please submit your nomination using the online form above, which includes a small paragraph or two about yourself and why you wish to nominate. If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Kind regards,

Emma Bell

Principal

The Catholic School Advisory Council (SAC) provides support and expertise to the Principal in their leadership of the school, especially strategy (future planning for the school) and finance (endorse the school's annual budget). Members are not involved in day-to-day operations or school finances. Membership is for three years. The Council appoints elected members to the roles of:

• Chair
• Deputy Chair
• Secretary
• Treasurer

Catholic School Advisory Council membership conditions

• a commitment to promote quality Catholic education
• a desire to give service to St Columba's community
• a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of all students, staff and the school community
• an ability to work cooperatively and constructively with the Principal and all other members of the Council
• possession of skills, competencies and experience that will benefit the school
• a sufficiency of time to devote to the Council.

Our Parents and Friends Group (P&F) provides the opportunity for parents and caregivers of the school to meet, share and be a community that supports and encourages our students and staff. All parents of enrolled students at the school are considered general members of the P&F.

The P&F adds strength to our school through community engagement and fundraising initiatives, in addition to being positive advocates for the school. The P&F supports the Principal to fulfil their responsibilities in leading the school.

P&F Executive Committee

The P&F is led by a volunteer group of parents, each of whom are elected to office bear positions. These people are P&F Executive Committee members. Members are appointed to the role for two years. The Executive appoints elected members to the roles of:

• Chair
• Deputy Chair
• Secretary
• Treasurer

CEWA Governance: Catholic School Advisory Council - Information for Prospective Members

CEWA Governance: Catholic School Advisory Council - Terms of Reference

CEWA Governance: Parents and Friends Group - Terms of Reference