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AISSA Bulletin No. 2: 12 March 2025
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The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia and Compass Education form Priority Partnership
Compass Education, a leading student information system, and provider of school management software, and the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA), the peak body for the South Australian Independent school sector, announce a new Priority Partnership for 2025.
The AISSA has been providing vital support, advice, advocacy services and development opportunities for the Independent school sector for 50 years. Independent schools educate nearly 20 percent of all school-age children in South Australia and employ 21 percent of the State’s teachers. The AISSA is proud to have 100 percent of Independent schools in South Australia as their members.
Compass is the school management system of choice for over 3,000 schools and 3 million users. For 15 years they have been supporting schools to improve operational efficiency and enhance community engagement through an integrated cloud-based platform and mobile app connecting staff, parents, and students.
Through this partnership, the AISSA and Compass will collaborate on targeted events and activities that engage school leaders and senior staff. These initiatives will focus on key areas such as business administration and school improvement, aiming to create value for the AISSA’s member schools.
Anne Dunstan, AISSA’s Chief Executive, stated, “For 50 years the AISSA has been supporting Independent schools in South Australia. Through our new partnerships program, we are exploring new ways to create value for our member schools.”
“Our new Priority Partnership with Compass provides us with an opportunity to facilitate conversations between our schools and a leading education technology company, aiming to support our schools to explore solutions that best meet their needs.”
Compass’ Chief Executive Officer, John de la Motte, emphasised the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by schools, “The long-term success of schools and the organisations that support them is paramount to our own success. Our partnership with the AISSA will allow us to support their purpose, whilst providing opportunities to connect directly with schools. This will help us understand their strategic challenges and deliver product enhancements that meet their needs.”
This partnership represents a significant step towards empowering Independent schools in South Australia with the tools and resources necessary for continuous improvement and success.
AISSA schools will be invited to celebrate the new partnership at a special event in the coming months.
For more information about the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia and Compass, please visit https://www.ais.sa.edu.au/ and https://www.compass.education.
Media contacts:
Hannah Goldsmith
National Marketing Manager
Compass Education
hgoldsmith@compass.education
Lucinda Pow
Senior Manager, Partnerships, Events & Communications
Association of Independent Schools of South Australia
powl@ais.sa.edu.au
AISSA Bulletin No. 1: 6 February 2025
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AISSA Bulletin No. 1: 6 February 2025
Celebrating 50 Years: A Reflection on the Journey of Supporting Independent Schools
Anne Dunstan, AISSA Chief Executive
2025 is the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia’s (AISSA) 50th anniversary year, and it is my pleasure and privilege to lead the Association at this significant milestone.
Since our inception in 1975, the Association has championed diversity and choice in education and supported and advocated for the Independent schools that serve families and students across South Australia.
Reflecting on the AISSA’s journey to date, it is clear to me that while the educational landscape, social contexts, technology and political agendas have changed since we were first incorporated in 1975, many of the challenges remain the same. We continue to advocate for a balance between independence and interdependence, working to support schools to maintain their ability to educate according to their own ethos and pedagogical approaches in an increasingly compliance-driven environment.
The Early Days: Laying the Foundations
The establishment of the AISSA in 1975 was a response to a growing recognition of the need for a unified voice for Independent schools. Our founders envisioned an organisation that could champion the unique contributions and value of Independent schools, while working collectively to share knowledge and cooperatively address the challenges they faced. From modest beginnings, with a small team and limited resources, our early work centred around building a strong network and advocating for equitable policies that recognised the value of Independent education.
Milestones and Achievements
Over the past five decades the AISSA has achieved numerous milestones that have helped to shape the educational landscape in South Australia:
- Advocacy and Policy Influence: We have worked alongside other Associations of Independent Schools across Australia to influence education policy, ensuring accurate representation of the needs of Independent schools at the highest levels of government and decision-making.
- Professional Development and Resources: Through research projects, workshops, conferences, study tours and publications, we have empowered educators and school governors and leaders with the tools and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving educational environment.
- Fostering Collaboration: By creating platforms for dialogue and collaboration, we have built a strong sense of collegiality among Independent schools, fostering relationships that benefit students, teachers, leaders and families alike.
- Championing Innovation: Our team has consistently encouraged and supported best practice innovation in curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and the integration of technology, ensuring that Independent schools remain at the forefront of educational excellence.
At our heart lies a commitment to and belief in diversity and choice. Over the years, countless students and their families have benefited from the unique, enriched learning environments Independent schools provide; environments that reflect their personal values, needs and aspirations.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
As we celebrate this golden milestone, we also look to the future with optimism, determination and a strong resolution to share the outstanding impact of our sector.
Our new Strategic Plan 2025-2027 articulates the strategic context within which our schools, and us as the peak body, are operating. We affirm that the pressures on member schools are high and that sustainable revenue sources are critical for our schools to continue to offer excellent educational options for students and their families. Our strategic goals focus on capacity building, growing engagement and delivering exceptional services to our member schools.
Gratitude and Celebration
Our 50th anniversary is a testament to the tireless efforts of many—our founders, leaders, staff, and volunteer supporters who have contributed throughout. I express particular appreciation for our member schools; their dedication, passion, and vision have made the organisation what it is today.
In marking this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to leading, supporting, representing and advocating for Independent education. Together, we look forward to the next 50 years shaping a bright future for Independent schools and the communities they serve.
AISSA Bulletin No. 8: 4 December 2024
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Recognising Contribution: AISSA Annual Appreciation Event
The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia was delighted to host close to 100 educators, volunteers and partners at our Appreciation and Awards event on Thursday 21 November 2024.
Held every year, the event is an opportunity for the Association to thank the exceptional individuals whose commitment, passion and dedication support the AISSA’s activities, and underpin the success of our sector through their contributions to their schools, the Independent School network, and their peers.
At the event, AISSA’s Deputy Chair, Peta St Clair and Chief Executive, Anne Dunstan recognised five exceptional individuals from the sector, presenting them with the prestigious Noel Volk Award.
The Noel Volk Award recipients were:
Stephen Rosier (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Deputy Chair Peta St Clair (right)
Stephen Rosier, former Business Manager, Trinity College (now retired)
Stephen has been a member of the SA Independent Schools Block Grant Authority Committee, since 2008, and is representative on the BGA Management Group. Stephen has participated in many school visits and meetings to assist the BGA with evaluation of projects for Capital Funding which he has managed alongside his significant commitments at Trinity College. Stephen’s contribution to the review and approval processes is sincerely appreciated by the Committee both past and present.
Now retired from his full-time role, we are grateful that Stephen will continue his commitment to the Block Grant Authority.
Morag Greenwood (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Deputy Chair Peta St Clair (right)
Morag Greenwood, Director of People and Culture, Scotch College
Morag has dedicated the last eleven years of her career to providing the Scotch College with invaluable leadership and strategic direction in human resources. Through her role, Morag has implemented HR practices that foster a positive, supportive workplace culture, benefiting both faculty and staff and contributing to the holistic success of the College.
Beyond Morag’s contributions to Scotch College, she is highly regarded in the broader HR community amongst our member schools. Her generous sharing of knowledge has made her a valued resource and sounding board for all things relating to people management.
Sharon Lynch (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Deputy Chair Peta St Clair (right)
Sharon Lynch, Visual Art Coordinator, Immanuel Primary School
On top of working as Immanuel’s Visual Art Coordinator, Sharon also leads her School’s Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, engaging the community in meaningful RAP actions tailored to their school context. A standout feature of Immanuel Primary School’s RAP is the prioritisation of student involvement, building student agency and ownership of their cultural work.
Additionally, Sharon has generously supported other member schools through sharing innovative strategies to enhance their RAP implementation and documentation.
Anita Zocchi (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Deputy Chair Peta St Clair (right)
Anita Zocchi, Principal, University Senior College
Anita generously hosted the AISSA Executive Team at University Senior College for its strategy planning session, providing a tour and insights into the unique offering of the school. Anita has generously given of her time and shared her knowledge and experience of her own professional learning in a “Talking Heads” session for fellow school leaders earlier this year.
Most notably, Anita has served as Chair of the Inter-Sectoral Secondary Principals Education Consultative Committee (INTERSPECC) from 2021 to 2023. During her tenure, Anita made an outstanding contribution, playing a pivotal role in advocating for secondary school students across South Australia, working collaboratively with educational leaders to promote student success and wellbeing. Anita’s leadership helped establish INTERSPECC as a powerful voice in addressing key issues in the secondary education sector.
Angela Branford (centre) with AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan (left) and AISSA Deputy Chair Peta St Clair (right)
Angela Branford, Principal Calvary Lutheran Primary School
Angela has made a significant contribution to the AISSA over many years. She has played a key role in the AISSA Women in Leadership professional learning program, inspiring aspirant women leaders to consider furthering their careers, even when they may have questioned their readiness. Angela’s role as professional companion, where she provided individualised support and guidance to aspiring leaders, has been highly regarded.
The Calvary research team, led and supported by Angela, also made an extremely significant contribution to the AISSA ALab Project over three years. An outcome of this work was the development and success of Calvary’s REACH program which brought student agency to life in very practical and inspiring ways. Angela and her staff have generously shared this work, hosting school visits and sharing practice in workshops and professional learning sessions. Most recently, Angela has generously shared her school’s experience with other Principals, contributing to a culture of collaboration and shared learning.
AISSA Chief Executive Anne Dunstan
Speaking at the event, AISSA Chief Executive Mrs Anne Dunstan said, “the contributions of each of our Awardees are appreciated not just by the AISSA, but by the broader Independent school sector. Each of those honoured today have made a significant contribution to the Association, the broader Independent school network, and their peers.”
Thank you to the Noel Volk Awardees, and all the individuals and organisations who have supported the AISSA’s work throughout 2024. We particularly acknowledge our partner, NGS Super, for their ongoing support.
We appreciate the time invested, the insights and expertise shared with us and through our various committees and advisory groups, attendance at networking and mentoring events and thoughtful and considered contributions and perspectives.
We look forward to working with all our stakeholders in 2025, the Association’s 50th year, to continue to advocate and support the amazing work of our diverse member schools.
AISSA Bulletin No. 7: 23 October 2024
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Celebrating Excellence: Congratulations to Our Newly Recognised Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers!
The AISSA is thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to a remarkable group of educators from the Independent school sector who achieved Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher status.
At a ceremony held at Adelaide Oval on Friday 20 September, Danielle Keynes from Immanuel College, Su-Sim Lynch and Jacinta Wild from Westminster School were recognised as newly certified Highly Accomplished Teachers, while Sasha Loveday from Trinity College graduated with Lead Teacher certification. Alison Barr and Anna Partridge from Westminster School also renewed their Highly Accomplished Teacher status for another 5 years. These teachers were amongst others from across South Australia’s schools.
“As the peak body for Independent schools in South Australia, we are deeply invested in the professional growth and success of our educators,” said Mrs Anne Dunstan, Chief Executive of the AISSA.
“National Teacher Certification recognises and affirms exemplary teachers and enables our best teachers to lead from the classroom. This has real impact on the outcomes for students, whilst also building an impactful learning and teaching culture within a school.”
Certification as a Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher is recognised nationally. It is one of the only nationally accredited processes that speaks to a teacher’s impact and success in the classroom. The governing framework, which ensures the nationally consistent approach, is led by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).
“This is a deeply involved and rigorous process,” said Mrs Dunstan. “I extend my very best wishes and congratulations to those graduating from the Independent sector, and all teachers from across other sectors.”
In achieving their status, each of the graduates underwent a meticulous process to demonstrate the quality of their teaching, and their positive impact on student learning and supporting their peers. The process, which can take up to 18 months, requires teachers to provide evidence of their success in accordance with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. Their evidence is critically reviewed, and independently observed and verified before being finally endorsed by the SA Teachers Certification Committee, which is governed by South Australia’s three education sectors.
Friday’s graduation event was attended by Ms Erin Thompson MP, Member for Devonport, representing Minister for Education Blair Boyer. Mr Danny Pinchas, General Manager, Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership, and Heads and representatives from across each of South Australia’s educational sectors. The event was a wonderful celebration and opportunity to bring South Australia’s best teachers together to acknowledge and celebrate their achievement.
Through our support of the Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher program, the AISSA aims to help achieve the national goals for schooling expressed in the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration on educational goals for all Australians.
Congratulations, once again, to all graduates.
AISSA Bulletin No. 6: 4 September 2024
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Top Award for AISSA Chief Executive
The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia is thrilled to congratulate our CE, Anne Dunstan, for winning this year’s Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) South Australia Alby Jones Gold Medal Award.
The Award is the highest honour granted by the ACEL South Australian branch and is conferred to a “South Australian educator whose influence and contribution to the study and practice of educational leadership is most outstanding at the state level and whose significant contribution to education is recognisable at the national level.”
As Chief Executive of the AISSA, Anne represents South Australia’s Independent school sector. She leads the advocacy and support work the AISSA provides its member schools. Prior to this role Anne was a passionate teacher, senior leader and Principal in Independent Schools across Adelaide, Perth, and Launceston.
Anne’s pragmatic approach to leading self, leading others and leading systems has created impact across the education sector. Anne is much admired for her work supporting and mentoring the next generation of school leaders.
Anne has found great joy throughout her career in teaching. She strongly believes that it is through education that one can effect the greatest good for the greatest number.
The AISSA would also like to extend our congratulations to other Award recipients, pictured with Anne at last night’s ceremony; ACEL SA Fellowship Award winner Warren Symonds, ACEL SA Educational Leadership Medal winners Cezanne Green, Paul Belton and Yvette Swaalf, ACEL SA Media Award, Dr Deborah Netolicky and The Pip Field Emerging Leaders Award winner, Matthew Rotolo.
The Alby Jones Gold Medal Award is presented in honour of South Australian educator, Dr Albert Walter Jones AO (1912-2033). ‘Alby’ Jones was a man of great intellect and compassion. He believed in access, equity, and justice for all, especially those for whom circumstance made these difficult to attain.
An abiding influence nationally and internationally, Alby received many honours throughout his life including a Fulbright Scholarship, gold medals from the Australian College of Education and the Australian Council of Educational Leaders, the Mackie Medal and Fellowships from several professional bodies. He was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia in 1979.