2011 Annual Report
Principal: Mrs Julie Terry
Address: Phone: Fax: Web:
Licensed for NEALS Š Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
5 Forest Road WARRIEWOOD NSW 2102 (02) 9997 7044 (02) 9997 6042 www.mmwdbb.catholic.edu.au
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
1.
Message from Key Groups in Our School Community
1.1 Message from the Principal Within the context of a welcoming Catholic faith community, the College continued to flourish during 2011 as an educational institution committed to the realisation of potential in all aspects of human development. Leadership of high quality learning by staff, students and parents, and continued growth in discipleship within the Good Samaritan tradition provided our focus for the year. The College also was formally reviewed for registration and compliance as well as quality control and the feedback from the panel was extremely affirming.
1.2 Message from the Parent Body In 2011 the College Board continued to build, strengthen and nourish the College as part of the wider faith community. In its key role in the partnership of parents in the College, it is an integral part of the College leadership framework. The College Mission Award presented annually by the College Board recognises a student who exemplifies the College mission by their actions. The College Board serves as an active conduit between the College community and the College executive. The College Board follows the model of Shared Wisdom in its decision making processes. The year of 2011 was one of continued growth for the College and its community as it welcomed a new Principal and Assistant Principal to the College. College Board Co-chairpersons
1.3 Message from the Student Body It has been a memorable year for the Class of 2011. Along with the College Prefects, College Leaders and fellow Year 12 students we aimed to enhance the College spirit and connect with the student body and staff of Mater Maria Catholic College. Each ministry of leadership; Community, House, Liturgy, Performing Arts, Social Justice and Sport has attempted to enrich their area of responsibility and make the College a better place. Over the course of the year, we have been rewarded by the friendliness of the community and their support of the Year 12 students as we prepared for and completed our HSC examinations. We extend our best wishes to the younger students of the College and wish them well during their remaining years at the College. College Captains
Licensed for NEALS Š Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 2
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
2.
School Profile
2.1 Student Profile The following information describes the student profile for 2011: Girls
Boys
LBOTE*
Indigenous
Total
435
401
25
2
836
*Language background other than English
2.2 Enrolment Policy The Diocese of Broken Bay has established an Enrolment Policy† which is implemented by all systemic schools in the Diocese. The implementation of this policy is monitored by the Catholic Schools Office. †Copies of this policy and other policies in this report may be obtained from the Catholic Schools Office website at: http://www.csodbb.catholic.edu.au/about/index.html or by contacting the Catholic Schools Office.
2.3 Staff Profile The NSW government requires that this report detail the number of teachers in each of the following categories: a)
have teaching qualifications from a higher education institution within Australia or as recognised within the National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) guidelines
b)
have qualifications as a graduate from a higher education institution within Australia or one recognised within the AEI-NOOSR guidelines but lack formal teacher education qualifications
c)
do not have qualifications as described in (a) or (b) but have relevant successful teaching experience or appropriate knowledge relevant to the teaching context. Such teachers must have been employed:
- to ‘teach’ in NSW before 1 October 2004 (either on a permanent, casual or temporary basis), and
- as a ‘teacher’ during the last five (5) years in a permanent, casual or temporary capacity. a
b
c
Total
73
1
2
76
Further information about the staff profile can be found in the School Facts section of the school’s profile page on the My School website.
2.4 Teacher Attendance and Retention Rates The average teacher attendance rate during 2011 was 95%. This figure does not include teachers on planned leave. The teacher retention rate from 2010 to 2011 was 100%.
2.5 Teacher Satisfaction The stakeholder satisfaction survey conducted in 2010 indicated that staff felt highly supported in their role. During 2011 staff members have been consulted on a number of issues including the writing of the College’s Value Statement, the more effective use of available teaching time and a Teaching and Learning statement. The Statements and recommendations for effective teaching time will be published and have been strategically planned for implementation in 2012.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 3
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
2.6 Student Attendance and Retention Rates
Year
Average student attendance rate (%)
7
93%
8
93%
9
89%
10
89%
11
91%
12
91%
The average student attendance rate for 2011 was 91%. Of the students who completed Year 10 in 2009, 71% completed Year 12 in 2011. Management of non-attendance: In order for students to reach their full potential it is of paramount importance that they attend school regularly. While it is the parents’ legal responsibility under the Education Act to ensure that their children attend school regularly, our staff as part of their duty of care, monitor all absences and work in partnership with parents to support and promote the regular attendance of students. In doing so the school, under the leadership of the Principal: •
provides a caring environment which fosters in students, a sense of wellbeing and belonging
•
maintains accurate records of student attendance
•
implements policies and procedures to monitor student attendance and to address nonattendance issues as and when they arise
•
communicates to parents and students, the school’s expectations with regard to student attendance and the consequences of not meeting these expectations
•
recognises and rewards excellent and improved student attendance.
School attendance records also contain information regarding student absences including reasons for absence and documentation to substantiate reasons for absences. Teachers are required to monitor non attendance diligently on a student by student basis and to bring to the attention of the Principal immediately any unexplained absences, non attendance of a chronic nature, or reasons for non attendance that cause concern. Matters of concern are referred to the Principal, the Catholic Schools Office and the relevant Department of Education and Training officer where appropriate. Where a student is not able to attend school for a prolonged period of time due to a medical condition or illness, the school in collaboration with parents provides resources to contribute to the student’s continuum of learning where possible. The Catholic Schools Office monitors each school’s compliance with student attendance and management of non attendance on an annual basis as a minimum, as part of the system’s School Review and Development processes.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 4
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
2.7 Student Satisfaction During 2011 students were surveyed on what constituted excellence in teaching and learning. Over 75% of students contributed to the survey and together with staff data, a Statement on Teaching and Learning was synthesised and will be published in 2012. Students were given the opportunity to comment on the teaching and learning in the College and over 96% of comments were positive with the rest constructive criticism which have been incorporated into the planning for 2012.
2.8 Senior Secondary Outcomes The percentage of students in Year 12 attaining a Year 12 Certificate or equivalent VET qualification in 2011 was 100%. The percentage of students in Year 12 undertaking vocational or trade training was 28%.
2.9 Student Destinations Data collected from our students who leave after the compulsory leaving age (17) suggest that the unemployment rate amongst our past students is negligible or nil. 60% of our 2011 HSC class received offers of University places. The Universities of Sydney continue to be most favoured although an increasing number are travelling further afield to take up university places. A number of our students are travelling abroad for 2012 and will take up study options at University or TAFE in 2013. Approximately 20% of the 2011 HSC class has taken up apprenticeships.
Licensed for NEALS Š Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 5
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
3.
Catholic Life and Mission
3.1 Catholic Heritage Mater Maria Catholic College was founded in 1962 by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan in the Benedictine tradition. The charism continues to have a strong influence on the life and mission of the College. The College holds strong links with the two surrounding parishes: The Catholic Parish of Pittwater and the Lakes Catholic Parish.
3.2 Religious Life of the School The celebration of Eucharist is the pinnacle of the expression of our Catholic faith and is an integral part of life at the College. We celebrated the Opening Year Mass, Mater Maria Day, significant feast days and graduation masses for both Years 10 and 12. We are fortunate to have the support of our local clergy who are willing to assist us in this domain, including the offering of a weekly mass at lunchtime. During the course of 2011 we celebrated a range of significant liturgical events. These included: Ash Wednesday, Easter Liturgy, the Feast of the Assumption, Thanksgiving Mass for our volunteers at the College, Christmas Carols service, and our Presentation of Award liturgy. Prayer life is encouraged with formal prayer on Tuesday morning in our Mater Maria Chapel as well as prayers being offered at assemblies and mentor groups. In addition, two staff members and three students travelled to World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain in August. The College Mission team, comprising the Principal, Assistant Principal, Religious Education Co-ordinator, Liturgy Co-ordinator, Youth Ministry Co-ordinator and Performing Arts Co-ordinator, oversees liturgy and social justice in the College. Outreach is an integral element in the education of our students, and they are educated and encouraged to participate in assisting those less fortunate, from fundraising for Caritas to involvement in house-building in Cambodia.
3.3 Catholic Worldview The very foundation of being a Catholic organisation is that our Catholic Worldview permeates all that occurs in the College. The Gospel values underpin our relationships and the expectation that all will be treated with respect and dignity. Those in need are supported, including the supply of meals in times of crisis and there is a deliberate strategy to ensure that financial hardship is not a barrier to participation in the fuller life of the College.
3.4 Professional Learning in Catholic Life and Mission The Diocese of Broken Bay has established a policy on the Professional Requirements for the Accreditation of Teachers of Religious Education which is implemented by all systemic schools in the Diocese. In 2011 staff participated in a Spirituality Day facilitated by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan education team. The day focused on the past, present and future of the College in terms of the values which are lived out in daily life at Mater Maria. Members of the College Board and Parents and Friends were invited and attended to be part of the process. The outcome of the day was the identification of five College values drawn from the Benedictine tradition. The College Board will take these values and compose a Values Statement to be published in 2012. Six of our teachers have completed their Certificate in Religious Education or are working towards the Masters in Theology during 2011.
Licensed for NEALS Š Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 6
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
4.
Pastoral Care
4.1 Diocesan Policies The Diocese of Broken Bay has established Pastoral Care and Student Discipline Policies which are implemented by all schools in the Diocese. The implementation of these policies is monitored by the Catholic Schools Office.
4.2 School Implementation of Diocesan Policy Positive relationships between all members of the College community are essential in forming young people and working in partnership with families. The pastoral care program in the College was an identified area of strength by the School Review panel. During 2011 the behaviour management processes were refined according to the work of a well known educational consultant. As a result, the number of students who have been removed from the learning environment because of misbehaviour has significantly decreased. There is an emphasis on the restoration of relationships after conflict under the tenets of Restorative Justice. This underpins not only classroom and playground behaviour but is also utilised in instances of bullying. Year Co-ordinators are paired to lead mentor partnerships. Their team of fifteen teachers mentor students. This is convened through a vertical structure for students in Years 7 and 12, Years 8 and 10, and Years 9 and 11. This vertical structure of pastoral care has led to enhanced possibilities for student leadership as the older students mentor the younger ones. Mentor partner assemblies provide students with the opportunity to showcase their gifts and talents and take a more active role in preparing the assemblies. Mentor teachers are also involved in the teaching and learning domain and conduct interviews with their students – these are one on one conversations which set learning goals for the coming semester.
4.3 Pastoral Care of Families Mater Maria Catholic College aims to work in partnership with families in the education of their children. Families are supported to this end through parent information evenings pertaining to both teaching and learning and pastoral care including the Year 7 Parent Welcome evening and parent/teacher interviews. Parents often use school staff to access advice on raising teenagers and we believe that open communication is critical to the best outcomes for students. Families in crisis are supported through meals, access to information for support services outside of the College and counselling services for students at the College. Approximately 20% of students accessed counselling services during 2011. The College is supported by the Catholic Schools Office through support and advice in counselling and behavioural interventions.
4.4 Resolving Issues The Diocese of Broken Bay has established a Complaints Handling Policy which is implemented by all schools in the Diocese. The implementation of this policy is monitored by the Catholic Schools Office.
4.5 Occupational Health and Safety Each school is required to implement and comply with the Diocesan School System Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS). This system reflects the current statutory requirements for OHS and complies with the Australian Standard for OHS Management Systems. The OHSMS adopted by the CSO for Broken Bay Systemic Schools has been designed to address
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 7
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
general health, safety and welfare matters and also to take account of specific issues that apply to school communities. The management system supports the provision of a ‘safe and supportive’ environment for all students as well as taking into account the health, safety and welfare of staff, visitors and contractors to the school site. Principals, in consultation with the relevant CSO personnel, are responsible for monitoring the school’s compliance with OHS legislation and for the implementation of the management system in keeping with the Catholic Schools Office’s Annual OHS Plan. External OHS system audits are conducted across a sample of schools each year to validate the implementation of the management system.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 8
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
5.
Excellence in Teaching and Learning
5.1 Quality Teaching and Learning During 2011 the senior leadership team participated in the Leading Learning program, which is a Catholic Schools Office initiative in partnership with Auckland University. Our annual School Improvement goal, of ‘Leadership of High Quality Learning’ saw us draw on professional development from the Leading Learning project, in order to strategically plan for better student learning outcomes. Middle leaders will join the Leading Learning program in 2012. In 2011 middle leaders have been supported in data interpretation and goal setting. During 2011 staff and students were involved in writing a statement on Teaching and Learning which will be published in 2012. Staff also worked on the use of effective teaching time and how they can best use the time during lessons. In addition teaching staff were involved in reviewing the student report format. A new system will be piloted in term 1, 2012. The College continued to appoint a Literacy-Numeracy Co-ordinator who assists in the analysis of NAPLAN data and in directing follow up Literacy and Numeracy strategies for staff to utilise with students. Teachers of these students were notified of the particular areas of weakness and given four strategies to implement. These were deliberately kept few and easy to implement so that the students were receiving the same strategies across a number of KLAs. Again in 2011, a co-teaching model was employed for students with special needs. This involved the KLA specialist working with a Learning Support Teacher so that skills and expertise could be shared. This model has proven very successful both for staff collegiality and for student outcomes. This model will be further embedded during 2012. The College also facilitates a very successful transition program for students entering Year 7. Lessons are allocated through a pastoral-based course to assist students to settle into high school and a staff member oversees this program. Mentor teachers continued to lead individual student interviews about academic progress and goal setting. Feedback from staff and students was that this was a positive step towards students leading their own learning. The interviews occurred after a reporting period so that report feedback from all teachers could be discussed.
5.2 Student Achievement Students in Years 7 and 9 sat the National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) in May. NAPLAN assessment results provide valuable information about student achievements in literacy and numeracy. Analysis of these results assists school planning and is used to support teaching and learning programs. Several points should be noted: •
In Year 7, students placed in Band 4 are achieving below the National minimum standard. Students in Band 5 are achieving at the National minimum standard. Students in Bands 6 to 9 are performing at a standard deemed above the National minimum standard. Students in Bands 8 and 9 are “at proficiency”.
•
In Year 9 students in Band 5 are achieving below the National minimum standard. Students in Band 6 are achieving at the National minimum standard. Students in Bands 7 to 10 are performing above the National minimum standard. Students in Bands 9 and 10 are “at proficiency”.
•
Students who were exempted from any test were deemed not to have met the National minimum standard in that test area.
State data for band distributions is sourced from the School Measurement and Reporting Toolkit (SMART2), developed by NSW Department of Education and Training. All National data and State
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 9
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
figures for the percentage at or above national minimum are sourced from the NAPLAN preliminary summary report published by the Ministerial Council for Education, Early Childhood Development and Youth Affairs (MCEECDYA). All school data is sourced from SMART2. Because figures are rounded and exempted students are not included in Band distributions, percentages may not add up to 100. In the 2011 cohort, there were 180 students in Year 7 and 136 students in Year 9. Detail on school performance is provided in the following tables where band distributions and percentages of students achieving the National minimum standard are outlined separately for Years 7 and 9. Band Distributions (%) – Year 7
Band 4 (-)
Band 5
Band 6
Band 7
Band 8
Band 9 (+)
% at or above national minimum
Reading
State National School
3.5 3.8 0.0
16.0 14.7 7.9
25.8 25.6 27.7
23.7 27.3 28.2
19.9 18.7 24.3
11.2 8.4 11.9
94.9 94.7 100
Writing
State National School
6.6 7.7 0.0
18.9 14.9 5.6
26.7 27.4 31.6
23.1 25.4 31.6
16.4 14.8 20.9
8.3 8.3 10.2
91.7 90.7 100
Spelling
State National School
5.3 6.0 1.1
11.0 12.9 9.0
21.9 24.5 23.0
28.5 29.1 32.0
21.2 18.3 24.2
12.1 7.7 10.7
93.9 92.5 99
Gr. & Punct.
State National School
7.1 5.8 0.6
12.8 15.0 6.2
29.1 26.8 32.0
21.4 27.3 28.7
19.6 16.7 21.9
10.0 6.9 10.7
93.3 92.7 99
Numeracy
State National School
4.0 4.0 1.1
15.8 14.1 13.1
24.1 25.6 27.4
24.8 25.8 31.4
15.5 16.8 18.9
15.7 12.0 8.0
94.4 94.4 99
The percentage of students who achieved at or above the National minimum standards exceeds both the State and National figures in all areas. Students who achieved the top two Bands were above both State and National figures except for the top Band in Spelling and the top Band in Numeracy. Strategies have been put in place, under the oversight of the Literacy and Numeracy Coordinator to address students who are in the bottom two performance bands. Compared with 2010 the percentage of students at or above the National minimum has increased in all domains. The challenge will be to continue to improve on these results so that testing in Year 9 in 2013 will attest to continued growth.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 10
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
Band Distributions (%) – Year 9
Band 5
Band 6
Band 7
Band 8
Band 9
Band 10
% at or above national minimum
Reading
State National School
6.3 6.1 1.5
18.1 17.2 7.7
25.4 27.4 30.8
25.3 27.0 26.9
15.8 15.5 26.2
9.2 5.3 6.9
92.9 92.4 98
Writing
State National School
16.0 13.9 6.2
18.5 18.5 9.3
20.8 23.2 20.2
22.7 20.5 34.9
12.0 13.4 20.2
9.9 8.9 9.3
84.6 84.6 94
Spelling
State National School
6.5 8.0 2.3
13.0 14.9 9.4
24.3 25.5 22.7
28.5 27.1 39.1
19.9 16.1 21.1
7.9 6.9 5.5
91.8 90.5 98
Gr. & Punct.
State National School
10.0 8.5 4.7
14.6 17.7 5.5
25.3 27.9 31.3
31.6 25.8 38.3
12.6 13.7 11.7
5.9 4.9 8.6
90.3 90.0 95
Numeracy
State National School
5.1 5.4 1.6
18.9 18.4 8.5
25.6 27.5 27.1
21.8 23.8 34.9
15.9 14.6 17.1
12.7 8.9 10.9
93.2 93.1 98
The percentage of students at or above the National minimum in all areas is above the State and National figures. Students achieving the combined top two Bands were above the National and State figures except for Numeracy and Spelling. Students achieving in the lower two Bands are identified and teachers are provided with strategies to assist these individuals by the Literacy and Numeracy Co-ordinator.
School Certificate Students in Year 10 sat for the School Certificate examination in November. The table provided shows the mean of the 2011 school cohort in comparison with State and school results from previous years. School Certificate means, 2007-2011
2011 2010 2009 2008 2007
School State School State School State School State School State
English Literacy
Maths
Science
79.93 77.34 78.79 76.87 79.37 77.43 78.81 76.63 75.17 74.76
72.13 70.88 72.21 72.10 72.89 70.61 71.33 70.67 68.15 69.38
76.30 75.44 76.24 76.67 74.80 75.00 73.50 73.61 73.02 73.48
Civics, Citizenship & Australian History 74.50 72.42 69.96 70.16 73.01 71.56 69.26 70.58 69.35 72.14
Civics, Citizenship & Australian Geography 73.37 72.15 73.13 72.38 73.54 72.36 72.36 73.52 75.70 74.60
Computing Skills Test 81.44 79.20 81.38 79.44 83.51 81.67 82.89 80.71 79.40 80.28
The College achieved better than the State in all areas of testing for the first time in the last five years. There were 67 Band 6 (+90%) results .75% of all results were in the top three performance bands (Bands 4, 5, & 6) compared to 71% in 2010. There has been a consistent trend over the past five years of increasing the number of students achieving in the top three bands.
Higher School Certificate In the 2011 HSC 78.5% of two unit results were placed in the top three performance bands. Once again this was an improvement on the percentage gained in the previous year (2010) when 76.2% of these results were in this top category. Similarly 46% of results in the same courses were either
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 11
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
Band 5 or Band 6. This is again an improvement on the previous year of 42.3%. Students achieved 71 Distinguished Achievers’ places for marks of 90 and above. 94 % of students studying English received a Band 4, 5 or 6. Our HSC students achieved 212 Band 5 results and 198 Band 4 results. 35 courses were presented at the HSC and our students performed above the State mean in 26 of them. One student was placed second in the State in Information Technology. Ten students achieved an ATAR over 90 with our highest known ATAR of 98.60. One student’s Visual Arts Body of Work was selected for Art Express and two students’ Industrial Technology major projects were selected for INTech. Just over 60% of the 2011 HSC Cohort was offered university places. This is an indicator of the overall strength of their HSC performance. The results of the De Courcy analysis also indicated that they achieved at a very high level, indicative of a group which has achieved a significant learning gain. The College community has been most please with their results in 2011.
5.3 Extra Curricula Activities Within the College there is a broad spectrum of opportunities for students to pursue their individual interests and to develop their talents. There are a wide range of sporting teams and competitions in which students can participate and talented students are supported in Diocesan, Regional, State and National levels. The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme continues to be popular and well supported by students. The College has a vibrant program in the Performing Arts and students are able to join bands, ensembles or productions. Students in the Year 11 drama class toured the local primary schools to perform an anti-bullying play. In 2011, a small group of students travelled to the United Kingdom and Italy for a three week cultural tour in September. Some of the highlights of 2011 were: the drama department’s major production which performed two past students’ original plays; the Marana Music Festival was again a combined effort between the College and the twelve Catholic primary schools on the Peninsula. The Jazz Band performed professionally at a number of external functions and the College Choir placed first in both sections of the local eisteddfod. Two students attended the Sydney University Model United Nations conference and two Languages students gained a two week scholarship in Japan. Our open boys’ tennis team and open girls’ water polo team reached the grand final in their respective competitions. A number of students represented the College at the NSW Combined Catholic College level in cross country, soccer, rugby union and swimming.
5.4 Professional Learning Staff professional learning days focused on our College Values Statement, the effect of media on young people and the integration of ICLT into teaching practice. In addition staff participated in relevant professional learning in their KLA focus areas or in pastoral care: •
members of staff from the faculties of Religious Education, Creative Arts, English, HSIE, Science, PDHPE, VET, TAS, Languages and Mathematics attended professional development sessions;
•
new scheme teachers attended regular professional development days facilitated by the Catholic Schools Office and other agencies;
•
KLA Co-ordinators and Year Coordinators participated in network opportunities provided by the Catholic Schools Office or faculty based associations;
•
many staff were involved in School Certificate and Higher School Certificate marking; and
•
six teachers completed qualifications in teaching Religious Education.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 12
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
6.
Strategic Initiatives
6.1 2011 Priorities and Achievements The Strategic Plan goals for 2011-2013 are: Mission in Context: Mature as a faith community our discipleship in Christ and strengthen our understanding of and connections with the Good Samaritan charism. Education for Personal Excellence: Promote excellence in leadership of high quality learning within a culture of positive relationships which nurture the human spirit and develop full human potential. Organisational Support: Commit to continuous improvement, sustainability and accountability in all aspects of the life of the College. The annual goals for 2011 are outlined below. Annual Goal One: Discipleship in the Good Samaritan Tradition In 2011 the College commenced preparation for its fiftieth anniversary celebrations in 2012 by engaging the College Board and other interested parties to plan the celebrations. The College appointed a former teacher to assist in the process of recording a narrative which will be released in 2012. The Mater Maria Day Mass in May provided another opportunity for the students and staff to connect to the Good Samaritan charism and the history of the College. We were fortunate to be joined by the last Sister of the Good Samaritan to leave Mater Maria in the 1990s. The Retreat and Reflection Days were further enhanced by the Religious Education Co-ordinator and Youth Ministry Co-ordinator. During the year the College also provided instruction around the new rite of the Mass and continued to encourage deeper participation in the Mass through familiarising students and staff with the music and prayers in which they may join during celebrations. The Youth Ministry Coordinator and two students joined the Catholic Diocese of Broken Bay pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain. The Business Manager and one student joined with other parishioners from the Catholic Parish of Pittwater and participated in the Salvatorian pilgrimage to Madrid. It was a remarkable experience for all involved. In all activities throughout the year, the College also continued to foster and strengthen its relationship with the Catholic Parish of Pittwater and the Lakes Catholic Parish. Annual Goal Two: Leadership of High Quality Learning During 2011 the College underwent a Review and Registration process for compliance and quality assurance. This was conducted by the Catholic Schools Office on behalf of the NSW Board of Studies. The College was validated and commended on the work achieved since the last review in all three domains of Catholic Mission, Pastoral Care and Learning and Teaching. In 2011 senior and middle leaders were involved in both formal and informal data analysis aimed at providing this group with information that could inform classroom learning within their KLA. The outcome resulted in middle leaders providing training to their teams so that each teacher has access to and is able to utilise information about the capabilities of the students in their class. Professional learning remained an important focus for the College in 2011 and was informed by the Technology, Teaching and Learning team at the College. The Principal opened staff meetings to a professional development dialogue which aimed at engaging teaching staff in best practise and provide strategies to further improve classroom learning. KLA leaders and their staff worked with the College Executive on developing a statement on what high quality learning for the development of full human potential is at Mater Maria. This statement will be released in 2012. KLA leaders also revisited the Quality Teacher Framework in order to further develop high quality pedagogy within their learning area.
Licensed for NEALS Š Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 13
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
The College implemented a new quarterly school report aimed at providing parents with information relating to their child’s effort and behaviour in each course. This has been well received by parents. In addition, following the semester reporting periods, each student has met with their mentor teacher to review their progress and set their learning goals for the coming semester. In July, the College completed a refurbishment of the Information Centre. This space has been designed with flexible learning spaces which encourage teachers to enhance students’ learning experience through interactive whiteboards, laptop trolleys, seminar spaces as well as traditional printed media. The College also completed the roll out of the NSSCF 1:1 computer program with nine notebook trolleys now available for students at Mater Maria Catholic College. Speciality rooms for Electronics and Woodwork were also refurbished in the Guringai building. The principles of Restorative Justice as the basis of our Pastoral Care framework continued to be further explored by staff. Support was provided so that teachers are successful in the management of student behaviour and are always focused on the best learning outcomes for the students. In 2011 there was a concerted effort to provide parents with the best ways in which to support their children at home with assessment tasks and homework. Staff and parents were both empowered to ensure that communication is open with one another to ensure that each student is working positively towards their potential.
6.2 2012 Priorities and Challenges From the College’s Strategic Plan, annual domain goals in the areas of Catholic Life and Mission, Learning and Teaching and Pastoral Care underpin the following School Improvement Plan objectives for 2012: In 2012, the community of Mater Maria Catholic College will be committed to: •
maturing discipleship lived through the College values of Community and Justice;
•
deepening quality teaching and leadership of learning through heightened responsibility and accountability; and
•
enhancing positive relationships through Restorative Justice principles.
Key Domain 1: Maturing discipleship lived through the College values of Community and Justice •
Celebrate the College’s Golden Jubilee anniversary and continue to mature the Good Samaritan charism in all that we do.
•
Develop and publish a Values Statement which articulates five College values at the core of the Mater Maria community.
•
Develop the Years 9 and 10 Reflection Days by providing an outreach program in our local primary schools to develop Literacy and social skills and host a ‘fete’ for children with disabilities to break preconceived notions.
•
Strengthen links with our the Catholic Parish of Pittwater and the Lakes Catholic Parish by continuing with morning prayer, Year 10 spirituality program and Cambodia outreach.
•
Provide further opportunities for student social justice involvement in the College.
•
Strengthen links with the Sisters of the Good Samaritan by engaging them in the training of our Year 12 prefect body.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 14
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
•
Key Domain 2: Deepening quality teaching and leadership of learning through heightened responsibility and accountability.
•
Publish and implement the College’s Statement on Teaching and Learning.
•
Use feedback from staff on effective teaching time to explore ways of using available teaching time in the most effective way.
•
Engage Middle Leaders in the Leading Learning program.
•
Provide opportunities for Year 7 Mathematics teachers to engage in the ‘Enhancing the Teaching of Mathematics’ project established by CSO in partnership with University of Sydney.
•
Make available to teaching staff data such as Allwell, UNSW GAT, De Courcy, NAPLAN, SC and HSC, Effort and Behaviour reports and Academic reports so that they become proficient at using this to inform their classroom practice to cater for the diverse needs of their students.
•
Continue to provide mentor teacher/student interviews to facilitate learning conversations in order for students to be more accountable and responsible in leading their own learning.
•
Provide targeted professional development opportunities for all staff so that they continually strive for excellence in their teaching.
•
Continue to provide parents with feedback about their child’s learning in a timely and appropriate fashion.
•
Promote accountability amongst colleagues and the College as a whole in order to strengthen collegiality and collaboration within KLA and between KLA teams.
•
Form a Literacy Committee to investigate and plan interventions for students.
•
Continue to support the Technology, Teaching and Learning committee.
Key Domain 3: Enhancing positive relationships through Restorative Justice principles •
Implement recommendations for the ‘Establishment Phase of the Year’ made by the educational consultant who facilitated a staff professional learning day.
•
Continue to educate staff, students and parents about the tenets of Restorative Justice as part of the overall focus on the two College values, Justice and Community.
•
Implement a case management approach to support teachers in behaviour management.
•
Identify classes which are causing some teachers to feel disempowered and use a case management approach to support them.
•
Become and eSmart school and use the resources to educate the community on cybersafety as well as anti-bullying. Engage and promote the National Day Against Bullying as well as accessing the DPC website.
•
Promote student leadership through formal structures such as the College Prefects, House Captains and SRC as well as through mentor assemblies for other members of the student body.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 15
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
7.
Parent Participation
7.1 Introduction Parent participation at Mater Maria is structured through the Parents & Friends Association and also through the College Board. Parents are integral to the organisation of the Mater Maria Festival which is held in May each year as an event which is organised and administered through the Parents & Friends Association and the College. Parents are invited to participate in the liturgical life of the College and they respond consistently well to the Opening Year Mass, the Easter Liturgy, the Ash Wednesday service and to the Graduation Masses for Year 10 and Year 12. A significant number of families came along to the Family Mass celebration which was held in the Mater Maria Chapel in March. There were minor changes to the College uniform and the P&F was used as a consultative body in this process. The Diocesan Parent Council’s event was again hosted by the College and it was well received by the parent community. Parental involvement is seen through their service in the canteen and through the preparation of meals for those families experiencing hardship or illness. A number of parents also assisted with the coaching of sporting teams, assisted at the Mater Maria Festival and the College’s Open Day. Each year in November the College community celebrates the Eucharist together in the Mater Maria Chapel as a most fitting way to give thanks to the parent volunteers in our College community.
7.2 Parent Satisfaction The College Board and P&F provide avenues for parents and community members to raise positive issues or those of concern. Any issues which are raised are listened to, discussed and responded to appropriately. The parent body expresses satisfaction with the College through these bodies. Parents report a sense of welcome in the College and a feeling of inclusion in College life. The beautiful environment and warmth of welcome are regularly commented upon by visitors to the College community.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 16
Mater Maria Catholic College Warriewood – 2011 Annual Report
8.
Financial Report Consistent with Board of Studies requirements, financial income and expenditure for this school is shown in the graphs below. More detailed financial data is available on the “myschool” website at http://www.myschool.edu.au. Diocesan system financial reporting is found in the Diocese of Broken Bay Catholic Schools Office Annual Report at http://www.csodbb.catholic.edu.au/resources/annrep.html
Income 1% 5% 25%
Fees & Private Income State Government Grants Commonwealth Recurrent Grants Government Capital Grants Other Capital income
52%
17%
Expenditure 6%
26% Salaries & Related costs Non Salary expenditure Capital expenditure
68%
The contents of this annual report have been validated by the School’s consultant, Ray Werren.
Licensed for NEALS © Catholic Schools Office, Diocese of Broken Bay 2011
Page 17