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1 Southern Cross Baptist Church Christian School Annual Report on the Educational and Financial Practices For the School Year 2013 Prepared for submission to the NSW Board of Studies SOUTHERN CROSS BAPTIST SCHOOL 104 Anzac Ave Engadine NSW 2233 Ph. (02) 9520 3911 Fx. (02) 9548 5279 [email protected] www.scbc.org.au

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Page 1: Southern Cross Baptist Church Christian Schools3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/resources.farm1... · Fx. (02) 9548 5279 principal@scbccs.nsw.edu.au . 2 An Introduction and Overview

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Southern Cross Baptist Church

Christian School

Annual Report on the Educational and

Financial Practices

For the School Year 2013

Prepared for submission to the NSW Board of Studies

SOUTHERN CROSS BAPTIST SCHOOL

104 Anzac Ave

Engadine NSW 2233

Ph. (02) 9520 3911

Fx. (02) 9548 5279

[email protected]

www.scbc.org.au

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An Introduction and Overview of Our School

Southern Cross Baptist Church Christian School has completed its twenty-sixth year of

operation. As a ministry of Southern Cross Baptist Church, it serves the needs of those

within the church community. The school is based on a Biblical philosophy of

education with the curriculum predominately sourced from the individualised and

mastery-based program, Accelerated Christian Education (A.C.E.). There is also

significant additional curriculum for local application and face-to-face/group work

classes. This unique educational opportunity is provided through very adequate

facilities and staffing levels.

The individualized learning and the self-pacing style of the program enables the

opportunity for all levels of students to succeed and to reach their full God-given

potential which brings with it a sense of well-being and achievement. Students who

have above average ability are able to accelerate through their studies and therefore

complete a far more elaborate educational program while others who are gifted in

other areas are still given the opportunity to reach their full God-given potential.

Our graduates enjoy a high standing in the community and the majority have sought

further education after their school years. All of our graduates have either pursued full

time study at University or TAFE or have entered the workforce.

The K-12 continuum allows students to mix with a wide range of ages of students

which aids in their socialization skills. The older students carry out an important

mentoring role in the lives of the younger students. The change from primary to high

school is smooth, stress-free and enables students to adjust to adolescence and its

demands within the same context as the formative years but with the added

responsibility of high school.

Many of our older students are active in church ministries having been encouraged

through high school to be investing in other people’s lives. They understand that they

have been given a unique opportunity in the quality of their education and are willing

to reinvest in others in return.

The school population has evolved into a much more diverse makeup of nationality

over the years. This has been welcomed and has brought a greater depth of

understanding to the student population of the differences in cultures and our equal

standing as people whom God has created.

Every year both the primary and high school perform a major drama production. The

preparation of these becomes a part of the curriculum for the 2nd

semester of each year.

Due to our small numbers all of the students are able to have a role in the

performances every year. Students who show promising ability in the area of drama

are encouraged to take on more major roles and even assist in the directing of the

productions. The major high school production for 2013 was the drama “What if Jesus

Had Not Come” while the primary class performed “The Christmas Story”.

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The school held an inaugural inter-school music and platform competition where

students came together for a full day and evening to compete in vocal, instrumental

and platform events. This enabled the students to work on the events during the year

with a focus of competing at the end of the year. It also allowed the staff to incorporate

the preparation of some events such as poetry, Bible telling, music etc. into the

curriculum for the year. Our students performed very well and our school won a

significant number of the awards on offer. We will be looking to make this an annual

event.

Our school once again hosted the annual Sydney Christian Schools Swimming

Carnival in 2013 held across the road from the school at Engadine Leisure Centre. We

also took part in the annual Christian Schools Sports Carnival held at the Crest at

Georges Hall.

Our high school missions trip for 2013 was to Ballarat, Victoria. The students who

attended prepared puppet plays, illustrated stories, games and prizes to use in a

ministry focus for the children in those communities. They were very well received

and were invited to come back next year. The trip proved to be an invaluable learning

experience for our students as they gained first hand exposure to the life of this

heritage rich community. Those who came this year are very much looking forward to

the missions trip experience again next opportunity.

Every second Friday, the high school has the opportunity to attend Thomas Holt

Nursing Home at Jannali. The students prepare two musical items to present during

their one hour visit there. They are encouraged to build relationships with residents

showing them the love of Christ in a practical way. A number of students have made

and purchased gifts for the residents of their own accord, having formed some very

special relationships. It has also allowed some valuable teaching on the topic of death

as many of the students have experienced the loss of somebody to whom they had

grown close. The whole school presented a Christmas concert for the residents at the

end of the year.

Each year the students attend a separate primary and high school camp. The high

school camp for 2013 was to Greenpoint, Forster. The students enjoyed a number of

activities including a visit to nearby beaches, some walks and fishing. The camp was

aimed at educational activities, building friendships and developing a closer

relationship with God. The primary camp was held at our school and included a

number of day trip activities.

The school possesses a high student/staff ratio that enables each student the

opportunity for any necessary assistance. There is a high level of commitment from the

families of the school. A number of the parents give of their time to assist as teacher’s

aides in the school on a voluntary basis. This high level of family commitment is also

indicated by our high ‘both parent’ attendance at our parent/staff meetings.

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The school’s applied science facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, workshop and

science lab. The library contains some 3000 volumes and our local library is walking

distance from the school. There is a rugby league field, two soccer fields, a basketball

stadium and an olympic swimming facility across the road from the school premises to

which the school has ready use. Supervised, filtered student internet access is available

on all computer terminals. There is an overall computer to student ratio of 1 : 1 in the

high school. The technology available in the school includes 2 interactive whiteboards,

18 laptop computers, 8 desk top computers, multi CD/DVD copier, digital still camera,

digital video camera, DVD player, scanner, laser printers, colour copier, data projector

and PA equipment. Two buses (12 seater + 23 seater) are constantly available for

school use for transport to school outings. Topical posters are displayed on a rotation

basis in classrooms.

The school is unique in its educational philosophy and mode of instruction and is

producing graduates who have self-discipline and a high sense of morality, having

been exposed to and taught a value system based on Christian principles. We continue

to exercise our freedom to operate on a Christian basis with sound educational

methodology supporting parental responsibility for choice of education for their

children in moral areas and worldview philosophy such as Creationism.

MESSAGES FROM KEY PERSONNEL

Principal - Mr. Nathan Searle

It has truly been a joy and privilege to serve and minister to the student body with

which we have been entrusted this year. We see each child as a soul for whom Christ

died with a wonderful future ahead of them if they should whole-heartedly seek to

fear, honour, love and serve the true and living God. The spiritual growth and maturity

that we have seen being developed in many of the students’ lives this year has been a

great encouragement to our hearts and given much cause for us to thank and glorify

the Lord. Our year has been one of trials and encouragements, and we are grateful to

the Lord for each one.

Paul testifies in Romans that experience brings hope. As we have experienced God’s

faithfulness year after year in the ministry here, we have learned that our hope is sure

in Christ. His hand of preservation is mighty, His wisdom infinite.

With the cessation of NSW student convention, our school hosted an inaugural music

and platform competition in which students from our own school and Condell Park

Christian School competed throughout day. The events included platform, vocal and

instrumental items which were each judged by a panel of three judges. The day ended

with an evening rally in which the students presented some of the higher standard

performances, received awards and heard a message from God’s Word. We are very

grateful to the Lord for the way in which He undertook, for the attitude of the students

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and the support of so many willing volunteers. We are looking forward to an expanded

day next year as Coffs Harbour Christian School will also be joining with us.

My mother’s diagnosis of cancer at the end of last year and consequent home-going

earlier this year came as quite a shock to us all. As a picture of health, no one

suspected that mum would be called home so soon. Yet we rest in the blessed

assurance that nothing takes our God by surprise, that He knoweth the path that we

take, that He only doeth wondrous things, that our times are in His hands, that death

has lost its sting and the grave has lost its victory for the Christian, that all things work

together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His

purpose, that He doeth all things well and that He is the Great Physician. We are

thankful that Mum knew whom she had believed, and was persuaded that God was

able to keep that which she had committed unto Him against that day. Many tears have

flowed, yet we sorrow not, even as others which have no hope for we have the blessed

assurance of a hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the

world began. We know that we will see her again soon.

We are so grateful for the ministry-minded, servant-hearted team that the Lord has put

together here at Southern Cross. According to their God-given abilities, each staff

member uniquely makes an eternal investment in the lives of the students. We

welcomed Amy Echegoyen, Natalie Roberts and Belinda Richards to the staff team

this year. Each has been a tremendous blessing in many ways.

God’s Word is rarely popular, but it is always right. Jeremiah’s messages from the

Lord to his people were not heeded, but he was faithful in the task to which God had

called him. We look to the Lord for a continuing supply of strength and grace as we

seek to be faithful till He comes - watching, working and waiting till we hear the

trumpet sound.

Head of Primary - Mrs. Denise Cronin

Primary Report 2013

This is my 33rd

year of teaching in Christian education. I have had the privilege of

seeing many lives influenced by the ministry of the school and have been so blessed to

be teaching children of students that I taught. I have observed those students who rose

to the challenge and chose the way of Christ and those who have struggled when they

believed their way was best. All of the students have touched my heart and I thank our

precious Saviour for them.

2013 has been an unusual year, but the LORD has proved himself faithful once again.

We have had the privilege of ministering to the students here in the midst of some sad

times and joyful times. The ministry is so very blessed by the wonderful help from so

many people who give their time so freely to the students. Those who pray, those who

give, those who clean and sort, those who shop, those who monitor and the list could

go on. I am constantly grateful for those brothers and sisters in Christ from ACE who

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have developed such an amazing curriculum that teaches the truths of God’s Word

every day with academic excellence. I must also mention the high schoolers who give

of their valuable work time, the faithful tireless work of Mr and Mrs Nathan Searle,

the godly input, support and behind the scenes work of Mr Les Searle and for the

parents who have given us the privilege of teaching their children.

We began in Term 1 with 13 students. Isaiah Searle and Adelaide Roberts started their

Kindergarten studies and have been a welcome addition to our school. They have

shown themselves to be keen learners who are active participants in school life. We

also have had the privilege of having Sarah and Jessica Reeve attend school on

Thursdays and are grateful that they are a part of our school family. Throughout the

year we have enjoyed the times when Ethan, Charlotte and Liliana Searle have spent

time in the classroom when visiting from Coolamon.

During term 1 the theme of our afternoon classes was ‘Down on the Farm’. The

children enjoyed learning about some of the amazing animals and crops that God

created. We visited Calmsley Hill City Farm and really enjoyed getting a little more

familiar with farm life.

At the end of Term 1 we were very sad to say good bye to Jonathan and Robert Varga

who left our school. They are still missed by us all.

Term 2 was an interesting adventure as we learned about the men from other lands

who discovered “The Great Land to the South”. We visited the State Library and

enjoyed an educational hands on program about some of Australia’s inland explorers.

During Term 3 grades 3-5 were involved in a more detailed study of Captain James

Cook. At the same time K-2 completed some lessons on Dog Safety. As a class we

visited Kurnell, the landing place of Captain Cook, and enjoyed standing on the edge

of Australia. We also visited Camellia Gardens and saw a memorial dedicated to Mrs

Cook. Her journal entry recorded on a plaque would indicate that she had a faith in

God.

In week 8 of Term 3 we held our annual primary sleepover at the school. As usual we

all had a wonderful time together with craft, games, Bible stories and lovely food

provided by Mrs de Witte. The theme of the camp was “Put on the Whole Armour of

God”. We enjoyed watching a cartoon version of Pilgrim’s Progress for our Movie

Night. When asked what Nicholas’ favourite part of school sleepover was, he

responded after a few moments, “Sleeping over!”

At the end of Term 3 we were able to put into practice all of our physical training

when we attended the Sports’ Carnival at Bankstown. It was a great day for the

students as they participated in friendly competition and a wonderful reunion with Mrs

Donaldson, Peter and Rachel. Sadly that was the last day that Timothy and Leah Bryan

were a part of our school family as they have moved to Queensland where Mr Bryan’s

new job is. We miss them very much and pray for God’s blessing upon them as they

begin home schooling.

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Since Term 3 is our most popular month for colds and flu, we embarked upon a

“Sneeze Safe” programme sponsored by Kleenex. The children enjoyed the interactive

activities on the white board and made good use of their free packets of tissues.

We now come to our last term of 2013. This is always a fun term as we tackle our

preparation for the presentation of the end of year play. Our play this year is entitled

“Christmas Hope”. I am so grateful to be able to teach in a school where I can teach

truth to the students. The children have been very excited about trying on their

costumes and practising their play lines.

This is also the term when next year’s kindergarten students come to school for one

day a week in preparation for next year. Selina Castillo, Aaron de Witte and Jacob

Richards have been a delightful addition to our Mondays at school. We look forward

to them coming every school day next year.

There are a few things left in the term that will be fun and challenging. The school

concert is a wonderful night where all the students participate. We also plan to visit

Symbio for a privilege outing as well as a Bible hero dress up day.

Looking back on our very full year we must give our wonderful LORD the glory for

all that has been accomplished.

Psalm 72:18-19

Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his

glory; Amen, and Amen.

Head of Curriculum (HS) – Mrs Judith Searle

2013 has been a year of mingled joy and sorrow. Indeed the Lord has used the good

times and the difficult times to continue to perform His valuable work in my life.

A definite highlight of this year has been teaching girls’ Bible study at school and

witnessing the girls respond to the challenges and make fresh commitments in their

lives. The main focus this year has been showing compassion to others and submission

to authority (including God). Having just finished studying the life of Job in my

personal devotions, I was amazed at the correlation been Job and the topic we were

studying in class. Job learnt submission to God in a situation that seemed “unfair”

from his perspective. Job was not suffering because of any sin he had committed but

simply because God had allowed him to be afflicted by Satan. Job came to realize that

God is God and He can do whatever He likes without explanation to us. True

submission to God requires us to likewise come to that point. It is easier to submit

when we understand what God is doing and see the reasonableness of it. When God’s

ways seem “unfair”, it is then that we struggle to humbly bow and let God do as He

pleases. This certainly has been something the Lord has challenged me with this year

and it was exciting to share these truths with the students.

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I have had the unique opportunity this year to teach craft and cooking. Considering the

high proportion of female students, it seemed only fitting that they learn sewing and

culinary skills. The students certainly enjoyed the challenge of producing a tasty, well-

presented meal for me to score each cooking class. The general feedback about each

recipe was positive, although the students were able to think of ways to improve each

meal. Cleaning up the kitchen proved a struggle, but the motivation of five points for a

clean kitchen certainly helped. A number of beautiful craft tasks were produced

through the year, with each student learning some new skills. Students gained a fresh

appreciation for the time investment required for many crafts but also felt the

satisfaction of the completed product. I am sure the Christmas holidays will prove a

good time to put some of these new skills to use.

Bible Telling this year has brought us to the completion of the Old Testament. Stories

covered have included Jeremiah, Daniel, Nehemiah and Esther. It is wonderful to see

the students sharing these Bible stories with understanding and expression. Within this

class the students also presented some object lessons. The story of Jeremiah illustrates

the usefulness of the object lesson to communicate the things of God. Students,

likewise, communicated some excellent spiritual lessons to the class using everyday

objects or basic science experiments.

In Written and Oral Expression this year the senior students have studied many aspects

of essay writing. By request from ACE, I have been working on an Essay Writing

PACE and our students have been the “guinea pigs” for this material. While learning

about essay writing, they have also provided constructive feedback on the PACE and

some work samples for inclusion in the next PACE (to be yet completed). The later

part of the year was spent looking at Shakespearean drama in general and one play in

particular. I am constantly encouraged by the high standard of work and evident higher

order thinking and analysis. The junior students have completed a unit on short story

writing. After reading and responding to a number of short stories, the students wrote

some of their own stories in various genres. The creativity demonstrated was amazing

and I certainly enjoyed reading each story.

Mathematics practical class has seen the students analysing data, producing graphs,

reading timetables, comparing bank loans, calculating the speed of passing cars,

solving tangram puzzles and using various problem solving strategies. I trust that the

students have seen many practical applications of mathematics to “the real world”.

I continually thank the Lord for calling me to this fulfilling and rewarding ministry.

May He receive all the glory for what He has done and continues to do through it.

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE IN STATEWIDE TESTS AND EXAMINATIONS

Lanna Scores Years 3, 5 & 7

In 2013, all of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and Numeracy

National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER.

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2013 results:

Over half of the results were above the national average and nearly one third were

above the range of achievement for middle 60%.

In 2012, all of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and Numeracy

National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER.

2012 results:

All of our students achieved results within or above the “range of achievement for

middle 60%” for every assessment except for one student who functions on an

individualised program below his year level having recently enrolled in our school.

Besides this student, 88% of the results were above the national average.

In 2011, 100% of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and

Numeracy National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER.

2011 results:

All of our students achieved results within or above the “range of achievement for

middle 60%” for every assessment except for one student who functions on an

individualised program below his year level. 65% of the results were above the

national average.

In 2010, all of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and Numeracy

National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER except for one who has a

professionally diagnosed learning difficulty.

2010 results:

All of our students except for one were above the national minimum standard. All

results except for two were in the top 3 bands in each year.

In 2009, 100% of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and

Numeracy National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER.

2009 results:

All of our students were above the national minimum standard. All results were in the

top 3 bands in each year.

In 2008, 100% of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students participated in the Literacy and

Numeracy National Assessment (LANNA) test developed by ACER.

2008 results:

All of our students were above the national minimum standard. All results were in the

top 3 bands in each year.

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Competitions: The school takes part in the Australasian School Competitions in the following

subjects areas:

Mathematics

Science

Writing

Spelling

Computing

English

Financial Literacy

Many of the performances have been above the average with students attaining credits

and distinctions.

Senior students in our school sit for the International SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test),

which converts to an ATAR, rather than sitting for the RoSA or the Higher School

Certificate. The student’s ATAR along with their school-based certificates form the

basis of their university applications.

TEACHING STANDARDS, QUALIFICATIONS, ATTENDANCE AND

RETENTION

All staff at Southern Cross Baptist School fulfil a ministry on behalf of Southern Cross

Baptist Church to train children according to the principles set forth in the Word of

God. Each one is a committed Christian who subscribes to the church’s Statement of

Faith.

Three staff members have teacher qualifications from a higher education institution

within Australia.

One staff member has bachelor qualifications from a higher education institution

within Australia and has significant teaching experience prior to October, 2004.

There have been no staff changes this year. A small amount of sick leave was used by

staff throughout the year. Other than school conference attendances and other

professional development there were no other days of staff absence.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

Our staff have undertaken the following training throughout the year:

South Pacific Educators’ Conference (Brisbane), Southern Cross Educational

Enterprises, (3 day) – Principal

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School Staff Challenge, Southern Cross Baptist School (1 evening) – all staff

School staff meeting every morning – all staff

Embracing Change and Innovation: Exploring New Possibilities in Music Education

(AIS) - Principal

State Christian Educators’ Conference, Southern Cross Educational Enterprises,

(2 days) – all staff

Assessment & Reporting, Mathletics (1/2 day) – Primary Head

Reading Eggs: Using the Teacher Resources with a focus on Upper Primary – Primary

Head

Intensive staff training in philosophy, procedures and curriculum (5 day) – new staff

(volunteer teacher aides)

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

No staff members are currently required to undertake professional learning according

to BOSTES.

The professional learning for staff is included in the above section.

STUDENT POPULATION OF THE SCHOOL

In 2013 there were 23 students enrolled across Kindergarten to Year 12 with 14 in

primary and 9 in high school. These students are drawn from a large radius across the

Sydney metropolitan area and represent a diverse mix of cultural backgrounds.

Southern Cross Baptist School values the diversity of the cultural backgrounds of the

students. This has brought a rich appreciation of the value that God places upon every

human being.

Retention Rates: Numbers are too small to calculate meaningful retention rates.

However, very few students do not proceed through to the completion of year 12.

Attendance: Student attendance was 95% in 2013 for the four week reporting period

in May. It is the school’s policy that student absences must be reported to staff by

11:00am otherwise parents are contacted to determine the student’s whereabouts.

Post-school Destinations: For the first time in many years, we had no graduating class

this year.

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POLICIES

ENROLMENT POLICY

Southern Cross Baptist School was commenced with the original intention of primarily

serving the families within the church community. However, enrolment is also open to

all families who attend churches of like faith who would be able to embrace the ethos

and statement of faith of the school. Students also need to agree to work to the best of

their ability, obey the rules and support the ethos of the school, participate in all facets

of the school program and respect all the staff and students of the school. A code of

conduct must be signed by all students upon enrolment.

Both student and parent commitment must be retained to allow continuing enrolment.

This commitment is demonstrated through full cooperation with the school program

and timely payment of tuition fees.

An offer of placement is made once the parent has submitted the application form,

attended an interview with the principal and administrator and consequently been

approved for acceptance into the school.

STUDENT WELFARE POLICIES

A copy of all student welfare policies may be obtained from the principal upon

request.

Child Protection Southern Cross Baptist School acknowledges the tremendous importance of providing

a safe and secure environment for students both in and out of the classroom. The

policy seeks to reduce the risk of child abuse by putting into place guidelines that

protect the children and ensure their feeling of security. It also ensures a caring and

appropriate response to all student welfare issues.

Security

The aim of the school is to provide an ever increasing safe and supportive work

environment which minimizes risks and harm. This policy contains guidelines for

evacuation in case of an emergency. It also dictates procedures to be followed during

any school related activity which is off campus. Procedures for the use of buildings

and emergency procedures are also documented.

Discipline

The school seeks to maintain a very high standard of discipline. Parents have entrusted

the school with their children that they might receive the best level of education

possible. We understand that consistent loving discipline is an important factor in

achieving this end. The school has a positive emphasis in its discipline approach in

seeking to promote what is right while balancing the emphasis by confronting and

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dealing graciously but firmly with that which is wrong. The students are respected as

individuals who have been created in the image of God and are loved by Him. The

approach of the discipline is therefore in keeping with the concept of what can we do

for the students rather than what we do to the students. Our desire is to help them

better discern and choose between what is right and what is wrong.

In accordance with the Education Reform Amendment Act (1995), the school prohibits

any staff from administering corporal punishment in any form. The principal ensures

that this policy is adhered to.

A copy of the student discipline policy may be obtained from the principal upon

request.

Pastoral Care

The school acknowledges that concerns and grievances will arise from students,

parents and staff. These are addressed using Biblical principles of conflict resolution.

Matters of a minor nature are to be dealt with between the individuals concerned. For

matters of a more serious nature or matters that are not able to be resolved at the first

level, the principal is to be informed.

As parents are seen to be an important part of the education process, homework is seen

to be a positive part of the curriculum. Parents are encouraged to become as involved

as is possible in this part of their children’s work. Because of the small nature of the

school, homework is very easily managed. Homework is assigned with a balanced

view of the need for family time, recreation and homework.

Reporting Complaints and Resolving Grievances

Southern Cross Baptist School acknowledges that Biblical pathways must always exist

for students, parents and staff to honestly and sincerely express matters of concern.

The aim of the Grievance Management Policy is to provide fair and equitable

processes so that all concerns will be considered and resolved in a spirit of love and

care for each person.

A copy of the complaints and grievance policy may be obtained from the principal

upon request. No changes were made to these policies this year.

SCHOOL DETERMINED IMPROVEMENT TARGETS

Achievements for 2013

School Christmas concert in local nursing home

Inter school convention hosted by our school

Ballarat trip – working with primary and high school-aged young people

Kids holiday Bible club run with high school helpers

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Introduction of reading eggs (an online individualised reading programme)

Addition of a sandpit (technically I think James completed it in time for the kids

club but it doesn’t fit into the other heading)

Extension of gardening for primary with the harvesting of the lemons from our

lemon tree.

Bible Hero Day

Extra hands on play equipment eg trampoline

Online safety awareness

Vegetable garden produce

The development of our student orchestra

School concert recording production

Major drama production “If Jesus Had Not Come” and “The Christmas Story”

Interaction with country students and homeschoolers/outreach program

A successful senior school work experience program

Mathletics challenge

A week long High School camp to Greenpoint, Forster

Incorporation of sporting clinics

Purchase of further musical instruments to foster the development of musical

skills and practice

Purchase of larger and more powerful school bus that would be more suitable

for mission trips

Purchase of a grand piano for use in school assemblies, music classes and

concerts

Purchase of larger and more powerful school bus is more suitable for mission

trips.

Clean up Australia Day

Priority Areas for Improvement for 2014

Further development of the use of Schoology for students and parents

Recording and production of character trait singing CD

Access council swimming lessons and swimming award programs

Development of BLESS (international program to assist similar schools)

Grandparents Day/Music Concert

Involvement in community programs

Development of the inter school music and platform competition hosted by our

school

Replace carpet tiles in the primary room

Upgrade kitchen

Replace staff toilet block

Upgrade wheelchair access ramp

Increased peer support for grade 6 in preparation for high school

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Continue preparations for transition to the International Certificate of Christian

Education

PROMOMOTION OF RESPECT AND RESPONSIPBILITY

The ethos of the school has a very heavy emphasis on developing respect and

responsibility. It is taught and promoted very thoroughly through every KLA and is

also encouraged pastorally in one-on-one interaction as well as in chapel and

assemblies. We are very thankful for the lovely spirit of care and concern that exists

amongst the student body.

PARENT, STUDENT AND TEACHER SATISFACTION

The verbal and written feedback that comes from parents consistently expresses

appreciation and commendation for the direction and values to which the school

adheres. Much of the student population frequently express to staff how thankful they

are for their school and the staff that minister to them. This is indicated by the large

distances (up to two hours each way) that some families travel each day to come to our

school. Our staff demonstrate tremendous dedication to what we all view as a

privileged ministry.

EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE

Our school has a reporting policy in place that stipulates that the school will provide

an annual report by 30th

June each year according to the Registered and Accredited

Individual Non-government Schools (NSW) Manual and will publicly disclose the

report on the school’s website.

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Summary Financial Information for the Year Ended 31 December 2013

Graphical representation of income and expenditure using percentages only

(a) Graphic 1: Recurrent Income represented by pie chart

(b) Graphic 2: Recurrent expenditure represented by pie chart