News and Events | AISSA
MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT: AISSA and Data#3 announce a new Priority Partnership
The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA) is delighted to announce a new priority partnership with Data#3, one of Australia’s leading technology solutions providers.
This collaboration marks an exciting step forward in supporting Independent schools and Early Learning Centres across South Australia as they navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape.
By working together, the AISSA and Data#3 aim to strengthen digital capability, enhance cybersecurity resilience, and empower school leaders with access to contemporary technology insights and solutions.
“Our partnership with Data#3 strengthens our ability to support schools in that work. Data#3 brings deep expertise in education technology, cybersecurity, and digital transformation – areas where many schools are seeking guidance and clarity.”
“Our member schools are deeply committed to providing students with the best possible educational experience, and that includes ensuring their digital ecosystems are secure, contemporary, and resilient,” says Mrs Dunstan. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support schools in that work.”
Data#3 National Practice Manager for Education, Mr David Wain, says, “Data#3 and AISSA share a commitment to strengthening the digital foundations of Independent education in South Australia. This partnership reflects our ongoing focus to support schools to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.”
We look forward to working closely with Data#3, and keeping members informed as new initiatives roll out.
For more information about this partnership contact:
| Contact AISSA Anne Dunstan Chief Executive (08) 8179 1400 |
Contact Data#3 David Wain National Practice Manager – Education 0413 442 668 |
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 (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (right) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (centre) and Jeff Thorpe (right) with AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (right) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (right) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (right) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (right) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (centre)
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 (right) with AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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 (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (right) and AISSA Chair Shannon Warren (left)
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.
AISSA Bulletin No. 8: 3 December 2026
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AISSA Bulletin No. 7: 22 October 2025
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AISSA Bulletin No. 6: 3 September 2025
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AISSA Bulletin No. 5: 30 July 2025
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Compass Wellness Experience – 2025 Winners Announced
We are delighted to officially share the recipients of the 2025 Compass Wellness Experience, following the formal announcement at the 2025 AISSA Governance Conference on Friday, 20 June.
This initiative, delivered in partnership with Compass Education, an AISSA Priority Partner, seeks to give back to the people who give so much – school staff.
After reviewing many thoughtful and heartfelt submissions, we’re pleased to congratulate the following winners:
- Isobel Murphy, Immanuel College
- Lara Matters, Trinity College
- Kristen Heath, Pilgrim School
- Angela Branford, Calvary Lutheran Primary School
Each recipient has won a bespoke on-campus Wellness Experience for their staff, including a smoothie bar, chair massages, and personalised wellness packs – designed to offer meaningful care and promote wellbeing.
Thank you to all who applied, and congratulations again to our winners. Your dedication to creating supportive, healthy school environments is what this initiative is all about.
AISSA Bulletin No. 4: 11 June 2025
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AISSA Bulletin – Special Edition State Budget 2025-26
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AISSA Bulletin No. 3: 14 May 2025
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