shepparton ace secondary college inc
TRANSCRIPT
Shepparton ACE Secondary College Inc. (Registered No: A0034994D)
P O Box 6146 130 Rowe Street Shepparton 3630 Phone: 5831 4029
Email: [email protected] Website: www.sheppartonace.com.au
Profile of Shepparton ACE Secondary College Inc.
Shepparton ACE Secondary College is a registered, community based secondary college that
provides a safe, accessible learning environment which focusses on positive educational
experiences and outcomes and creating pathways to tertiary study and employment.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Shepparton ACE Secondary College aims to provide a small school environment which is
safe, supportive and caters for individual needs.
OUR VISION STATEMENT
SHEPPARTON ACE SECONDARY COLLEGE – Small School Big Heart!
A BRIEF HISTORY
Shepparton ACE Secondary College is a registered secondary college with an interesting
history.
Back in the 1990’s a small community based organisation was created to provide volunteer
tutoring in literacy and as the need for this grew, the organisation registered as an RTO –
Shepparton Adult and Community Education.
Shepparton ACE remained a very small organisation for many years trying to find a stable
place to rent on a long term basis until a long lease was negotiated with the City of Greater
Shepparton in 2004 for part of the Youth Club hall.
The area of the lease was simply not much more than a neglected open space, certainly there
were only two rooms suitable for classrooms, no office area and the toilet block was a long
hike to the other end of the building. The next few years were spent on upgrades including a
major upgrade funded by the Department of Community Services that finally provided
facilities that were suitable for purpose.
During this period, an obvious need arose to provide education to the many early school leavers
in Shepparton and a decision was made to offer these young people the VCAL.
The consequent burgeoning numbers of VCAL students led to an urgent need for more
classrooms and this need was met through a Commonwealth Government grant in 2008 that
provided a purpose built facility at long last.
To coincide with the new building it was decided to register as an independent senior secondary
college. We wanted students to be proud that they could complete their education in a
secondary school as their friends had done.
Gradually, we developed a pathway to university, Certificate IV in Liberal Arts, and to meet
the requests of many students we also offered the Diploma in Community Services. It means a
lot to our students that they can leave their secondary school with a tertiary qualification.
In 2018, and in response to direct requests from parents, we registered as a Year 7 -12
secondary school and our very first Year 7s and Year 8s started in February 2019. This is
another exciting development for the school community and one that will enable continuity of
education for our students.
We welcome all young people and we take them on face value, provide a safe, supportive
learning environment and maintain high aspirations for them. This approach has worked. Many
students now hold professional positions in the community though completing their education
at the college. This is marked contrast to when they first enrolled feeling uncertain about their
future. Every year we send more graduates into the community with the best education we can
give them and with pride in their often hard won achievements. Other students have found
successful paths to university.
The school has developed wide ranging community partnerships to support our young people
and enhanced by the need for work placements in the Diploma of Community Services. A
notable partnership established over seven years is with Westside Circus from Melbourne. This
partnership has enabled our students access to the highest quality circus training. One of our
students was chosen to participate in National Treasures, a youth exchange project that saw
him training with other young circus artists in England. This student subsequently worked in
Sweden in an after school program. In January 2020, four young people attended a youth
exchange in Turkey also facilitated by Westside Circus. These opportunities for travel have
allowed our students to feel at home in the world.
In 2018, we were informed by the local council that they needed us to vacate our current lease.
which had just been renewed for 15 years. Initially we were shocked but we picked ourselves
up, found an amazing, centrally located property and made the purchase. In 2020, we received
a state government grant to enable the construction of purpose built school on the site.
Our school community is looking forward to the future with some excitement as we welcome
establish our junior school, keep our focus on quality education and on building a new school
in what we believe is the perfect downtown street for us to be located.
The future keeps changing for this school and our school community has proved flexible,
creative and strong enough to turn the challenges this brings into opportunities for others.
MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
THURSDAY 23 MAY 2019 AT 1.30PM
1. OPENING TRACK
performed by Roger Hunt – “Do I Wanna Know” by Arctic Circle
2. WELCOME
Chairperson Ross Dainton welcomed all to the meeting.
3. ABORIGINAL DANCE GROUP
The Dhungala Kaiela Dancers performed several dances much to the delight of the
audience.
4. PRESENT
Ross Dainton (Chair), see list attached in Appendix 1 of this document
5. APOLOGIES
The Mayor Kim O’Keefe, Liza Costigan, Karan Kapoor, Julie Brisbane, Sarah Dunkley, Howard Phillip, Ray Winnell, David Price, Jet James, Jordan Corish, Eric McLeod, Lorraine McLeod, Gale Muston, Gary Mott, Ros Wright, John Rowston
6. NOT PRESENT
(Not an apology) – See list attached in Appendix 2 of this document
7. PRE-MEETING ENTERTAINMENT
Musical performance by our talented staff members Sile Coleman and Damien Neil
8. MINIUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
It was moved by Bronwyn Rose, seconded by Kate Brett that the Minutes of the last meeting
held on 24 May 2018 be confirmed. Carried.
9. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
Nil
10. CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT
Ross Dainton read from his report included in the Annual Report 2019, distributed at the
meeting. In part he said, “Shepparton ACE College continues to enhance it’s reputation
of a place that really cares about it’s students” and “Exciting times prevail as a move to
new premises by 2021 is imminent”. Ross also thanked the staff and Committee of
Management for their efforts this year.
It was moved by Desiree Winnell, seconded by Bronwyn Rose that the Chairperson’s
Report be received. Carried.
11. PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
Bronwyn Rose read from her report included with the Annual Report 2019 saying in part
“Shepparton ACE College is grounded in activism.” And said “Last term, young people
from across the school became involved in the Student Strike 4 Climate movement. This
movement is organised by young people who are taking a stand; telling our politicians to
take their future seriously and treat global warming as the crucial issue that it is.”
“Everyone who attended the rally chose to be an activist.” Bronwyn also said students like
our school as it feels like “a big family” and this is due to “the caring approach shared by
staff and students alike.”
It was moved by Sile Coleman seconded by Gill Anderson that the Principal’s
Report be received. Carried.
12. ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
Julie Dainton read from Rosie Hocking’s report included in the Annual Report 2019
outlining all the courses available at ACE. Rosie said “Years 7 and 8 are completing the
Australian Curriculum” and “we have students already on a list wanting to enrol in year
for 2020 and 2021.” Rosie also thanked all the staff for their efforts this year.
It was moved by Jan Phillips seconded by Kate Brett that the Assistant Principal’s Report
be received. Carried.
13. STUDENT REPORT
Sohnsarae Johnson read her Student Report included in the Annual Report 2019. She said
that “Before joining the warm and welcoming ACE family,……………..depression and
anxiety became present in my life” “A close friend of mine recommended that I join her
at ACE” and on “My first day….I was greeted with warm and welcoming smiles” “Not
only was I feeling a sense of belonging…………but my class mates and teachers actually
valued my opinion and gave me positive feedback on my work efforts.” 14. AUDITOR’S REPORTS/STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENDITURE FOR YEAR ENDING
31 DECEMBER 2018
Ross referred to the Independent Auditor’s Report and the attached supporting financial
reports, for the year ended 31 December 2018, included with the Annual Report 2019.
It was moved by Julie Dainton seconded by Irene James that the Auditor’s Report and
accompanying Statement of Income and Expenditure Report be received. Carried 15. CHAIRPERSON VACATES THE CHAIR
Ross Dainton vacated the chair, after declaring all Committee positions vacant (except
that of the most senior staff member), and invited Kate Brett to take the chair to conduct
the election of the new Committee.
16. ELECTION OF THE COMMITTEE
a. CHAIRPERSON
Ross Dainton had agreed to be nominated for the position of Chairperson. There
being no further nominations, Ross was declared elected.
b. VICE-CHAIRPERSON
Liza Costigan had agreed to be nominated for Vice-Chairperson. There being no
further nominations, Liza was declared elected.
c. ASSOCIATION SECRETARY
Julie Dainton had agreed to be nominated for Association Secretary. There being
no further nominations, Julie was declared elected.
d. TREASUREER
Karan Kapoor had agreed to be nominated for Treasurer. There being no further nominations, Karan was declared elected.
e. ORDINARY MEMBERS
The following persons had agreed to be nominated for Ordinary Members of the Committee; Gill Anderson, Julie Brisbane, Kate Brett, Sarah Dunkley
f. AS OF RIGHT MEMBER
Under the Rules the ACE Manager’s (Bronwyn Rose) membership of the COM is as
of right.
17. GENERAL BUSINESS
NIL
18. CLOSE – THANK YOU
Ross Dainton thanked all for their attendance and contributions and invited everyone to a very fine afternoon tea prepared by the Certificate ll in Kitchen Operations class supervised by Julie Dainton.
19. CLOSING TRACK
Closing track performed by Roger Hunt – Unholy Confession by A7X
APPENDIX 1
Attendees – AGM 2019
First Name Surname
Ross Dainton
Julie Dainton
Bronwyn Rose
Gillian Anderson
Kate Brett
Desiree Winnell
Irene James
Joel Hoffman
Damien Neil
Sile Coleman
Karren Pollerd
Brett Hand
Selina Prendergast
Joseph Moon
Jan Phillips
Tristan Miller
Wilfred Stuart
Matt Carter
Deb Carter
Sohnsarae Johnson
Neisha Naylor
Beau Turner
Felicity McDermott
Rachael White
Ethan Lyons
Jye Traval
Alana Belmont-Wickliffe
Billie Wilson
Roger Hunt
Jude Sorgel
K-Jaye Black
Jarrod Barrett
Timothy Robinson
Bree Warren
Natasha Van Oosten
Toby Thomson
Reann Perry – Karaitiana
Ruby McKenna-Hardy
Sebastian Sharp
Cordel Sullivan
First Name Surname
Isqandar Zulkifli
Hana Zulkifli
Sebastian Stevens
Maddison Carter
Jayde Pratt
Lisa Sharp
Anthony Bordett
APPENDIX 2
Members Not Present (and not an apology) – AGM 2019
First Name Surname
Maitri Housiaux
Karen Winmar
Ruben Baksh
Marcia Walker
Thelma Bull
Emily Vaivars
Chris Munari
Brian Brett
Christopher Martin
Lisa Martin
Antonio Tunomtana
Kerri Jolly
Georgina Schofield
Joanne Molloy
Billie Schofield
Ian Almond
Janet Borrman
Richard Rowstan
Dylan Christenson
Lynda Ford
Robert Anderson
John O’Donoghue
Yao O’Donoghue
Joan Nish
Joanne Mott
Chairperson’s Report 2020
Shepparton ACE Secondary College continues to enhance its reputation as a place
where students can achieve to their potential as learners and citizens.
ACE continues to successfully provide a safe, supportive small class environment
with relevant, progressive curriculum and extra curricula activities.
This year has had the disruption of the Covid virus – forcing students to work from
home. Students generally did well under this restriction. Students, staff and the
administration responded admirably under difficulties and are congratulated on
their efforts under duress. Students are presently back at school with a burden of
a world under upheaval.
Bronwyn continues to be a strong and positive leader, ably supported by Rosie
(Assistant Principal) and Joel (Student Welfare). The teaching team provide a
positive influence and are tireless in their endeavours for helping the students to
achieve. The office staff, cleaners and support personnel are thanked for their
friendly manner and commitment to their roles.
Students have displayed initiative and appreciation of the staff effort on their
behalf. They are trying their best in a ‘worrying’ world. The Years 7, 8 and 9
students have added a pleasing dimension to the college atmosphere. Numbers in
these years are increasing at a pleasing rate. Although excursions and camps have
been limited recently, four lucky students were able to participate on an
international exchange to Turkey with Westside Circus under the sponsorship of
the European Union.
Relocation plans are showing positive signs. A generous government grant has
allowed us to finalise plans for our new education facility. We await ‘promised’
council money so the building can commence. The house on site at Maude St has
been expertly renovated and will be a pleasing place for staff to work in. Graham
Marshall (Builder) and Bruce Mactiers (Architects) are to be commended for their
expertise and support.
Our new bus, now arrived, will be a pleasing addition to vehicle support.
I thank the Committee of Management for their friendly, insightful and caring
commitment to ACE. They devote their time willingly and provide helpful,
constructive advice. Their support is a very important part of the overall ACE
operation.
The coming twelve months will be an interesting time for ACE and will no doubt
have its challenges. Fortunately, we maintain a strong financial situation. ACE
continues to evolve and adapt in a world that has changes considerably in a short
period. ACE will be a stable safe haven for many. We look forward to the future
and our new location with excitement.
Ross Dainton Chairperson
Principal’s Report
This report was written during Term II in an unnaturally quiet school that is usually full of the
lively fun and challenges that a large group of teenagers bring. However, despite the lockdown,
which interrupted Term I and Term II, there have still been significant highlights to report.
In January, four talented students (and an adventurous teacher) attended a creative arts youth
exchange in Turkey on the invitation of our long term partners, Westside Circus. Our students
experienced international travel for the first time and made friends with other young people
from places such as Sweden, South Africa, Turkey and South Korea. We are very proud of
their warmth and friendliness to the other young people they met. A huge thank you to Julie
who travelled with them and made sure they all made it safely home.
An exciting turning point for the school came in December when we received the welcome
news that our State Government grant application to build a new school on our Maude Street
property was successful. This was the culmination of two years of focussed work by our school
council ably led by Ross Dainton. I take this opportunity to thank Ross for his strong support
and advocacy in the face of the unexpected events of the last two years. I also wish to
acknowledge the support and advice of all our school council members that have contributed
to the success of this unique small school.
To return to a familiar theme, our new school will be a small school with the maximum number
of 120 students. We can’t wait to move in and take advantage of the beautiful, state of the art,
new school environment.
Another important milestone for the college occurred this year with our first Year 9 class.
Thank you to all the Year 9 students (along with their parents and caregivers) for trusting us
with their education. We look forward to seeing you all next year in our first Year 10 class to
be studying the Australian Curriculum.
The Covid 19 lockdown has been a difficult period to negotiate in education but one that our
staff have risen to. Our teachers provided relevant work in an engaging, organised manner and
were regularly in contact with parents and students. I am proud of them all for the extraordinary
efforts they made to support those learning from home while the school remained open for
students who needed our support.
On the other hand, I need to acknowledge the difficulties many young people had motivating
themselves to work from home and the sometimes considerable burden this placed on parents.
A huge thank you to Shane and his dedicated Year 7 to 9 team and all the Year 10 to 12 and
further education teachers for their amazing efforts during this difficult period. The majority
of our staff have many decades of experience working with young people who have
experienced a few hiccups in their education or in their personal life. Their experience,
combined with the varied approaches of new staff are invaluable, not only in curriculum
experience but in creating a steady, positive, success focussed school environment.
Heartfelt thanks to Rosie for her sheer hard work and determined efforts to provide the best
opportunities for all young people who want to come here. Thanks also go to Joel for his
unwavering efforts on behalf of students who need extra support to attend school and manage
their life issues.
Desiree and Irene have once again done a magnificent job in our small but super busy school
office coping with the usual changes and demands and assisting new staff to settle into our
school routine.
But most of all I need to thank our students, who as always, are the most important people in
the school and who inspire us all to do our best for them every single day.
Bronwyn Rose
Principal
Assistant Principal Report 2020
Since my last report, we now have fully established Year 7, 8, and 9 classes with students all undertaking the Australian curriculum 5 days a week. 2020 Year 9 students will be our first class of Year 10 Australian curriculum students in 2021 as by then we will be fully registered to deliver the Australian Curriculum from Year 7 to 10. Our VCAL classes continue to flourish, with a Foundation VCAL class (Year 10), an Intermediate VCAL class (Year 11), and a Senior class (Year 12). This year, we have also run a Certificate III of General Education for Adults class. These students complete this certificate in Semester 1 then enrol in Intermediate VCAL, which will give them 2 qualifications at the end of the year. Certificate IV in Liberal Arts and Diploma of Community Services are 2 of our popular courses for adult students as is Certificate III in Individual Support. With our increase in year levels and student numbers, we have welcomed a number of new staff to the college. Andree Wilson (Literacy), Frank Adams (English and numeracy), Adam Kitungano (Mathematics). We also welcomed back staff members Michelle Donders, Shane Molloy, Damien Neil, Joel Hoffman, Sile Coleman and Karren Pollerd. And of course our college would not run as smoothly as it does without Bronwyn(Principal), Irene and Des in the office, and Ray and Brian – general maintenance and cleaning. All classes were able to attend their customary first semester camps to give them the opportunity to indulge in a change of scenery and team building skills. Thanks to the efficient organizational skills of all staff these camps were completed just in time before the Covid19 restrictions and lockdown.
Rosemary Hocking
Assistant Principal
Year 12 2020 – Student Pathways
Eight students attempted their Year 12 in 2020. Of those students, six successfully completed the year and went on to further study by enrolling in Certificate IV in Liberal Arts (university entrance). One student successfully completed all but one unit of Senior VCAL and moved interstate to seek employment. One student experienced ongoing absences for personal reasons and as a result was able to pass only the Senior Literacy Unit, however, following an admission test, that student also went onto further study by enrolling in Certificate IV in Liberal Arts (university entrance).
Bronwyn Rose
Principal
Farewell Year 12!!! by Leeanna Cameron
Hi, I am Leeanna. This year I completed Year 12, finally. I chose ACE because
at ACE the stuff understand that each student is different and we all have a
different way to learning. The staff understands the personal issues we may be
facing and they do everything they can to help and support us and make
things a little easier for us, ACE staff care about their students.
At the start of the year I knew no one, but my fellow Year 12 students made
me feel welcome and we became fast friends. We bonded over the fact we
are really BAD AT YOGA, WE SURVIVED Damien’s dad jokes and we become
closer as Damien’s jokes got worse and worse and I can now say we are stuck
together; we will always be there to support each other as we take the next
steps in our lives.
On behalf of the Year 12 class, we want to thank Damien and Bronwyn, without
them this year would have been a lot harder. You both put up with our weird
conversations and our jokes, you were quick to join in and laugh even when
you were the butt of our jokes. You are the best teachers we could have asked
for and honestly, without you we could not be here today proudly saying we
finished Year 12, so thank you both for making this year as great as it was.
I want to thank my mum, husband and my fellow Year 12 class because
without their support over the year I would not be standing here today, and
they kept me sane and kept me here even when I felt like giving up.
We have accomplished so much this year and I am so proud of each of you!
Lastly, thank you to everyone here for coming tonight to celebrate the ACE
students’ successes.
