Celebrating Contribution: AISSA 2025 Appreciation event

The AISSA’s annual Appreciation Event provides a meaningful opportunity for us to acknowledge and thank the many individuals and organisations whose support throughout the year has strengthened the Independent school sector.

The event celebrates those who have contributed to the AISSA, its member schools, and the broader sector through sharing their time, expertise, and insights through committees, reference groups, mentoring, or special initiatives. At the event we also extend our sincere gratitude to our Priority Partners, whose ongoing support helps us to deliver high-quality services and programs to our member schools.

Each year, a select group of individuals is recognised with the Noel Volk Award for their exceptional service to the AISSA and/or our member schools.

We thank all our partners and volunteers for their contributions, and we warmly congratulate this year’s Noel Volk Award recipients:

Michelle Benison – Director, National Relations and Policy Directorate, Department for Education

Michelle played a pivotal role in negotiating the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement – Full and Fair Funding 2025–2034 and the corresponding bilateral agreement. Her commitment to genuine consultation ensured that South Australia’s Independent school sector was well represented. Michelle’s commitment to facilitating productive communication between the State and Commonwealth governments and the AISSA which is greatly appreciated.

 

Paul Hunter Director Corporate Services – Woodcroft College and Jeff Thorpe Business Manager – Cedar College

Paul and Jeff have been instrumental members of the School Resources Reference Group, offering expert advice and practical support across operational priorities for an extended period. Their mentorship of new business managers has helped shape a strong, informed leadership community within Independent schools.

 

Colleen O’Rourke – Leader of Digital Innovation, Hills Christian Community School

Colleen’s visionary leadership in STEM, AI, inclusion, and sustainability has transformed student learning. Colleen is a keen supporter of the AISSA professional learning initiatives, generously sharing her knowledge and expertise with the sector through webinars and workshops.

 

Rebecca Garrett – Head of Teaching and Learning (Years 7–10), Trinity College, Blakeview

Rebecca’s deep expertise in mathematics education has empowered educators across the Independent school sector. Rebecca is known for her generosity, professionalism, and she has invested significant time in developing and sharing school-based stories of practice, providing colleagues with real-world examples that inspire reflection and innovation.

 

Carolyn Grantskalns & Janet Farrall – Former Chief Executive & Former Senior Educational Consultant, AISSA

To help mark the AISSA’s 50th anniversary, Carolyn and Janet undertook the monumental task of searching archives, including collections in the State Library, to collate vast amounts of information in chronological order to form the basis of an interactive historical timeline. Their meticulous research and storytelling have preserved the legacy of the AISSA and honoured the people and milestones that shaped our journey.

 

Mike Potter – Chief Executive Officer, Tyndale Group of Christian Schools

Mike’s tenure on the AISSA Board has been marked by thoughtful leadership. He understands the importance of sector unity, particularly in times of change, and has generously offered both his time and expertise to support the collective interests of member schools. He has contributed to the network of support we enjoy and he has worked to foster collegiality amongst our schools and their leaders.

 

Uncle John Lochowiak – AISSA Board Member and Cultural Adviser

Uncle John’s wisdom, cultural insight, and heartfelt engagement have enriched AISSA’s work since 2022. A Wadi (initiated Man) with deep ties to many language groups across Australia, Uncle John brings a unique and compassionate perspective that continues to guide and inspire the AISSA and our member schools.

 

Emily Brookes – Principal, Torrens Valley Christian School

Emily has demonstrated leadership in mentoring emerging principals, generously sharing her expertise and wisdom with Heads new to the sector to support these leaders to feel supported, equipped, and confident as they navigate the complexities of school leadership. Emily has  advocated for  inclusive, values-based learning environments and has shared her school’s practice across our network for the benefit of all AISSA schools.

We also extend our thanks to our 2025 Priority Partners NGS Super, Compass Education and Swanbury Penglase for their support throughout the year.