newsmonth : may, 2011 (vol.31 / no.3)

Print Post: 225007/0002 – ISSN: 0728-4845

NEWSPAPER OF THE NSW/ACT INDEPENDENT EDUCATION UNION [ VOL 31 #3 ] May 2011

p7 p14

Stronger voice for nurses

Love, live (a passionate) life

p5

Rally for pollution tax

Campaign news page 12

Read more page 6

Teachers blue with State Government

Karen Audet (left) and Cathie Greenhalgh at Greta Community Preschool.

The air was turning blue in preschools and long day care centres as far and

wide as Parkes and Sydney’s Cabarita on 23 March.

The IEU held Blue Day to highlight the need for pay parity for early childhood teachers with their school counterparts.

Early childhood teachers in preschools and long day care centres often earn significantly less than teachers in primary schools.

Staff wore blue clothes, planned blue-themed activities for the children and encouraged parents and carers to show support for the day, which attracted significant media coverage in rural and regional areas.

Teachers have also been lobbying their local MPs.

The Gonski school funding review provides a “once in a lifetime

opportunity” to ensure appropriate funding for a quality education and appropriate industrial conditions for staff in non-government schools, the Union’s submission says.

The IEU’s detailed submission to the Federal Government-initiated review says both government and non-government schools should be “publicly accountable on the same basis and be funded by government on the basis of need, with reference to the national resources standard”.

“School funding should ensure that there is opportunity for all Australian families to access the high quality and diverse non-government system.”

The Union also believes the full costs of meeting the educational

needs of students with disabilities should be funded by federal and state governments “regardless of whether a student attends a government or non-government school”.

Currently there is a lack of transparency around aspects of school funding “in particular the manner in which non-government schools are funded by state/territory jurisdictions”, the Union says. The IEU supports a funding regime providing “transparency, accountability and certainty” and a revision of current SES modeling to create a more robust and transparent measure.

The Union does not support funding allocations for non-government schools being paid to state and territory government authorities for disbursement.

In terms of the impact of funding on enrolments, the Union says there is “no evidence” it is causing a shift to non-government schools. In fact a steady increase in the percentage of non-government school enrolments over the past 40 years has seen no decline in actual state school enrolments.

Many schools embraced the opportunity to have their say on the school funding review via the Union’s online survey. The funding of special needs students, changing demographics, and the plight of rural and remote schools were prominent concerns outlined in school submissions, which were forwarded by the IEU.

"School funding should ensure that there is opportunity for all Australian families to access the high quality and diverse non-government system.”

Funding review ‘once in a life-time opportunity’

Staff and children from Parkes Early Childhood Centre.

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Register for the 2011 Women's Conference

See inside

2 NEWSmonth – Vol 31#3 2011

stay in touch

www.ieu.asn.au

Gloria TaylorIEU DE p U t y SE c r E ta r y

John QuessyIEU aS S I S ta n t SE c r E ta r y

Carol MatthewsIEU aS S I S ta n t SE c r E ta r y

The IEU is dealing with two cases where members have

no insurance due to the behavior of their employers, with serious consequences.

Since July 2003 the law has required employers to pay superannuation contributions on behalf of employees quarterly, at least. The law actually states the dates by which those payments must be remitted.

Despite the law there are some employers who don’t pay on time or who simply don’t pay at all. Late or non-payment can have very serious consequences and most workers have absolutely no idea what an employer’s cavalier attitude to superannuation contributions can mean for them.

Contributions that don’t comply with the law don’t just slow down the rate of growth of retirement savings, they can leave you and your family destitute.

Late or non-payment of super contributions can leave employees without Income Protection, Death and Total Permanent Disability Insurance.

The IEU is currently dealing with two cases where members have no insurance due to the behavior of their employer. In one case, an early childhood teacher’s employer did not pay her superannuation because he had financial problems at another of his centres. A superannuation account was never established for her with her nominated fund. If it had she would have had by default life insurance of over $200,000 and income protection of at least $3,000 per month which would have been activated in October last year (60 days after her last day at work).

This member only in her early 30’s and diagnosed with a life threatening illness has been left devastated due to the greedy and arrogant attitude of her former employer.

The second case involves a teacher at a girls’ school of some prestige in the community which simply put off payment of superannuation contributions for 12 months and paid them as a lump sum. During this delay her income protection and death and total permanent disability insurance lapsed and was (after six months of no contributions) cancelled by her fund according to its rules.

Her employer did not tell her what they had done and she did not subsequently notice the absence of insurance coverage on her fund statements. Now, aged 50 and terminally ill, she will run out of sick leave this month and is without any form of salary continuance to see her through. Without also even the basic default life insurance cover from which her family might gain some financial comfort.

These workers find themselves in this predicament because their employers ignored the law. It can and it does happen and our advice is to check the status of your superannuation insurance coverage with every statement and check also that your employer is making regular (at least quarterly) contributions on your behalf. Most funds allow their members to check these details online.

Perhaps insurance is a boring topic but remember by the time it's needed it's probably too late to get it reinstated if its gone.

Are you protected?

The IEU is delighted to confirm NSW Australian of the Year

2010, Jon Dee as the keynote speaker at this year's Environment Conference. Jon is one of the most influential figures on the Australian environmental scene and is eager to share his insights with teachers and staff in the non-government education community.

Jon is a co-founder of Planet Ark with Pat Cash and has been a driving force behind a number of ground breaking environmental campaigns. These include the instigation of National Recycling Week, National Tree Day and the founding of World Environment News.

The Conference will be held in Sydney on Friday, 21 October and advertised soon to members in schools and early childhood centres. The theme of the 2011 Conference is ‘Growth in Education for Sustainability' with a focus on highlighting the excellent work of IEU members within our sector and providing practical ideas for the implementation of environmental education programs.

The Conference is the major activity of the IEU Environment Committee for this year, but workshops also will be advertised aimed at assisting members to apply for environmental grants. Members are reminded that IEU conferences and workshops are registered professional development for maintenance of accreditation at the NSW Institute of Teachers.

This year climate change is firmly back on the political agenda and the Union is supporting a number of environmental initiatives. Climate Connectors is the environmental network of the Australian union movement and a growing number of IEU members have joined and participated in climate action including lobbying of politicians.

For up-to-date information on events and environmental news join the IEU environment network on Facebook or visit the environment section of the IEU website. Contact Iva Coric at the IEU office [email protected] for updates on the conference and workshops and assistance with joining the IEU environmental network.

Prominent environmentalist to address IEU Conference

Some employers are struggling to get the message that all

workplaces, regardless of size, must pay correct entitlements to staff.

A magistrate has fined a 7-Eleven franchise in Victoria $150,000 for breaching award entitlements by failing to pay staff casual, shift, weekend and public holiday penalty rates.

Magistrate Hawkins said there was a “need to send a message to the community at large, and small

employers particularly, that the correct entitlements must be paid and that steps must be taken by employers (of all sizes) to ascertain and comply with minimum entitlements (as opposed to ignoring those obligations)”.

In addition to the fine, which was ordered to be paid by the employer and personally by the two individuals running the business, the employer was required to pay $90,000 in back pay.

Continued p11

Compliance not an option for small employers

www.ieu.asn.au

"Most workers have absolutely no idea

what an employer’s cavalier attitude

to superannuation contributions can mean

for them."

stay in touch

3NEWSmonth – Vol 31#3 2011

stay in touch

on the ground

Dick ShearmanIEU GE n E r a l SE c r E ta r y

The IEU has reached agreement with Catholic dioceses for

increases in rates of pay for support staff and outdoor and maintenance staff in Catholic diocesan schools from the first pay period on or after 1 July.

Staff will receive an interim 2.5% increase.

The current agreement expires on 30 June and the last pay rise received by staff was 4% in July 2010.

However the IEU and Catholic employers have agreed that it is in the best interest of all employees for the negotiations for teachers and other staff to occur at the same time.

The teachers agreements are not due for renegotiation until the end of the year so the increase is interim until negotiations occur at the end of the year for new agreements for teachers and support staff.

Increases in the new agreements that will apply from 2012 will take

into account any increases that have already occurred this year.

Catholic independent schoolsThe 2.5% increase will also apply

to maintenance and outdoor staff in NSW Catholic independent schools. Support staff in Catholic independent schools have already received pay increases this year under agreements which are in place until the end of this year and so will not receive the 2.5%.

Pay rises for support staff in NSW Catholic schools

"Staff will receive an interim 2.5% increase."

School Education Minister Peter Garrett took time out of a

busy day in parliament to address the IEU Officers Forum.

The Minister affirmed his Government’s commitment to the non –government sector, saying it made an important contribution to education in Australia.

Mr Garrett said any funding review would result in continued support for the sector.

The Minister indicated he was happy to take questions from the floor,

however bells and lights indicating a division in the house meant he had to leave promptly.

The conference also heard from chair of the funding review panel David Gonski (by video) and Independent Schools Council head Bill Daniels, who talked about anomalies in the current system.

The two-day March conference examined issues and strategies that the Union could adopt in the lead-up to the school funding review.

Bell tolls for Minister

The third installment in the IEU’s series of ‘Non-government

education reflecting diversity’ brochures is now available.

‘Working Together — Christian schools and the IEU’ highlights the role of Christian schools in contributing to Australia’s diverse mix of education choices.

“Christian schools aim to equip for life in a holistic way,” says Christian Schools Australia CEO Stephen O’Doherty in the brochure. “Challenging academic, cultural and sporting programs are integrated with their spiritual development. Students are encouraged to consider God’s call on their lives, establish positive values based on Biblical teaching and find fulfilling purpose in serving others — following the example of Jesus. The culture of the is critical to these outcomes.”

The brochure details industrial achievements, uses member voices to

share their experiences, and emphasises the importance of having union representation whatever school system one works in.

TAS Teacher and IEU Rep at Nowra Christian School Graham Wright says it’s important for all colleagues “to be able to work together and come together as a staff”.

“The Union enables this and ensures we are able to maintain a fair working environment — and to safeguard it into the future. Members very much appreciate having the Union around and bargaining on our behalf. They work hard for us.”

To order copies of ‘Working Together — Christian schools and the IEU’ or the previous brochures, ‘Non-government education reflecting diversity’ and ‘Union culture and Muslim schools’, please contact [email protected].

Christian schools diversity brochure now available

stay in touch

Dick Shearman (left) and Federal Secretary Chris Watt with Peter Garrett.


www.ieu.asn.au

Pathway to equity

Dear Minister Piccoli,

I write to commend your fulfillment of a pre-election promise to convene a meeting and consult on critical education issues with representatives of parents, unions, school authorities and school principals from government and non- government schools in NSW.

The following is provided as confirmation of the NSW Independent Education Union’s position on significant issues as expressed at the 14 April meeting at Macquarie Towers, Sydney.

League Tables

The IEU is implacably opposed to the publication of simplistic comparisons of data which unfairly compares and ranks students and schools, and which may damage and denigrate the work and efforts that students and their teachers make.

The IEU notes that the My School website explicitly states as a condition of entry that “..you must not, without our prior written permission create lists of comparative school performance from Content on this Site directly or indirectly for commercial purposes” (Terms of Use 12 v).

The Union expects ACARA to rigorously enforce this and other provisions set out in the Terms of Use on the My School website.

The Union requests that as NSW Education Minister, and a key decision

maker regarding ACARA work and policy, you will support a strict compliance with the Terms of Use copyright standards, and immediate action should a breach occur.

Australian Curriculum

The IEU supports the concept of a national curriculum that provides for equity and consistency in learning opportunities and learning outcomes for all students across the nation, and which may result in some economies of scale regarding curriculum resources.

The IEU knows that curriculum and syllabus documents are the day-to-day working manuals for teachers, and therefore they must present a sensible, coherent and practical framework for teachers to use as a basis for planning, preparation, assessment and reporting of their work.

The current State curriculum provides such a framework for NSW teaching and learning. It is a broad and well-balanced curriculum catering for all students, including those with special needs.

The ACARA Australian Curriculum for English, Maths, History and Science at its last publicly available iteration did

not ‘meet the grade’ on several fronts, and grave concerns have been expressed regarding second phase subjects, especially The Arts. The details of shortcomings are set out in Board of Studies Curriculum Committee reports and in a MCEECDYA memorandum from December 2010, of which you would be aware.

The IEU is opposed to any move to an inferior curriculum in NSW schools.

The Union welcomes and supports statements you have made recognising the quality of the NSW curriculum, and confirming that your government will not want to see that standard compromised.

NAPLAN

The IEU supports assessment that relates to curriculum, informs teachers, students and parents about individual learning progress, and guides further student and school improvement.

The IEU believes there has been an unhealthy focus on NAPLAN testing since the commencement of publication of school data on My School website. This has resulted in coaching and training of students for a basic skills test, to the detriment of student and staff well being, and of time for rich learning activities.

NAPLAN may provide data for long-term school planning and resourcing, but this would be equally achieved through sample testing (such as with PISA, ESSA) and at much lower cost and impact.

The IEU opposes any extension of NAPLAN testing to additional year cohorts.

My School

The IEU supports the principle that parents should have access to timely, meaningful information about their children’s progress and that they are entitled to clear, straightforward and comprehensive school reports.

In NSW, such school information is provided to parents and interested parties as a requirement of Commonwealth legislation and the registration and accreditation processes of the NSW Board of Studies. In the great majority of cases school reports are available through the school website.

Further provision through the My School website is unnecessary, and in fact, comparisons of so-called ‘like schools’ are confusing and misleading.

In conclusion, the Union is appreciative and supportive of inclusive decision making in government. We see the April meeting as a promising start in this direction.

Yours sincerely,Dick ShearmanGeneral Secretary

Staff at CatholicCare have welcomed their employer’s

announcement that they intend to commence bargaining with the IEU and the Australian Services Union.

The IEU has been in contact with CatholicCare since November 2010 in an attempt to negotiate a federal enterprise agreement that covers school counsellors employed by CatholicCare in the Wollongong Diocese.

After an initial meeting on 3 February 2011, negotiations were delayed by CatholicCare, claiming that no further discussions could take place until the Equal Pay Case, currently being run by the ASU, is finalised in June.

The counsellors met on 3 March and endorsed a motion requesting that CatholicCare come to the table with the IEU to negotiate fair wages and conditions.

Union chapters in the schools have also met and endorsed resolutions in support of their counsellor colleagues, as has the South Coast Branch, and these resolutions have been forwarded to CatholicCare and Wollongong CEO.

The counsellors have welcomed the announcement by CatholicCare on 12 April that they intend to commence bargaining with the IEU and the ASU for a federal enterprise agreement for all CatholicCare employees.

Counsellors in Wollongong CEO schools who work alongside teachers are currently paid at a much lower rate of pay than counsellors in dioceses such as Parramatta and Maitland-Newcastle, who are paid on the teachers’ scale. The rate is also below that paid to counsellors employed by CatholicCare in the Canberra Goulburn Archdiocese.

IEU South Coast Organiser Les Porter said that the strong IEU membership

and activism of CatholicCare counsellors has greatly assisted in bringing CatholicCare to the bargaining table.

Principals’ Organiser Pam Smith has also thanked principals for their support for just remuneration and working conditions for counsellors. Principals have told the Union that fairness and consistency are vital in attracting and retaining quality counsellors in schools.

At press time, the IEU was due to meet with counsellor members on 5 May and a bargaining meeting was scheduled with CatholicCare on 6 May.

CatholicCare Wollongong finally agree to bargain

Les PorterIEU OrGanISEr

The following letter was sent to new Education Minister Adrian

Piccoli by IEU General Secretary Dick Shearman

5NEWSmonth – Vol 31#3 2011 5

www.ieu.asn.au

A crowd of over 8000 people attended a pro-carbon tax rally

in Sydney in April, calling for the big polluters to pay the price for the damage they are doing to the planet.

A host of speakers called for ordinary Australians to support the Gillard Government in its attempts to place a price on carbon and pave the way for the implementation of an emissions trading scheme.

Many IEU members and officers attended the rally and reported on

the passion and commitment of those present to address climate change now and not leave a damaged planet for future generations. The IEU and its Environment Committee share the view that action is needed now and that the only way to force polluters to change their ways is to place a price on pollution.

“We need to act now!” was the consistent message from the crowd. Many felt that the ‘head in the sand’ approach adopted by the Leader of the Opposition was a position taken for short-term political gain with no regard to the future and future Australians.

For those who are fearful of the ‘shock jock’ claims that a green economy would lead to massive job loses, several of the speakers reminded the crowd

that the introduction of green initiatives and new technology will actually create jobs. This is particularly the case in the building industry where retro fitting of existing building and the application of new skills in construction will create jobs.

The rally was an initial step in what is shaping to be a robust public debate. It is imperative that we convince the skeptics that change is needed now and that the most efficient way to get major polluters to change their behavior is influence their ‘bottom lines’ by putting a price on carbon.

Rally for carbon tax or

Michael BrackenIEU OrGanISEr

pollution tax?Protestors at the rally agreed pollution tax was a better name than carbon tax. “It is about investing in a sustainable clean energy future for our children,” one of them explained.

IEU member Anne Bezzina, a counsellor from the Parramatta Diocese, who attended with her husband, shares the view. “I think we should sort this mess out now. Why should our children pay for it?

“It’s important we don’t dump all of this onto the next generation and the one after that. But we can’t possibly do that without some sort of payment.”

The message from Get Up was to spread the word to local communities.

For more information visit www.getup.org

I EU Principal members in the Wollongong Diocese gathered on

7 April to express appreciation to long serving principal member Chris Miller who represented the South Coast on the Union’s Principals’ Branch for many years.

As well as being active in the Wollongong Diocese principals’ chapter, Chris also served as chair of the Union’s NSW/ACT Principals’ Branch and as a delegate to IEU Council. He also contributed as a member of the Principals’ Branch consultative group in the negotiation of the last Principals’ Award.

At the function on 7 April, an IEU Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Chris by Principals’ Organiser Pam Smith and South Coast Organiser Les Porter in recognition of his efforts on behalf of principals at local, regional and state levels.

While Chris retired from principalship at St Therese’s at West Wollongong in 2010, he continues to undertake casual teaching and reliving principal roles and is continuing this year to attend IEU Council meetings.

IEU recognises principal’s contribution

CatholicCare Wollongong finally agree to bargain


www.ieu.asn.au

{Presenttense

Kendall WarrenIEU Or G a n I S E r

rep spotlight:

ELICOS NEWS

With the local ELICOS industry still in the doldrums, and with winter

approaching, teachers might like to consider following the sun and seeking employment in one of the many summer schools that operate in the northern hemisphere. The schools can be a great experience for either new teachers or for those of us who have been kicking around for longer.

The UK probably has the greatest range, with summer schools operating in most major centres, including London, Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton and York, among many other areas. These schools might be more along the lines of a holiday camp (with a bit of teaching thrown in) or they might be more academic in nature. More experienced teachers might like to try their luck at one of the

university summer schools. There are also opportunities to work in the US, Canada and mainland Europe.

These positions are usually advertised in the UK media. The Guardian has excellent jobs classifieds, and you can also find several other recruitment websites on the IEU ELICOS page of our website. Go to 'Your Sector' and click on 'useful links'.

n In late March, the Federal Parliament passed a number of changes to the ESOS Act, stemming from recommendation of last year’s Baird Review. According to the Federal Minister for Tertiary Education, Chris Evans, these new rules will require additional registration requirements by colleges, and provide a greater role for the Commonwealth Ombudsman in relation to student complaints. Further

changes affecting the international student market are expected later in 2011.

n n Elsewhere in the world of TESOL, the British Government has recently announced major cuts to their student visa program, as part of a push to reduce so-called 'illegal immigration'. UK universities are up in arms, claiming that the proposals could “cut fee income by about £1.6bn (and) would also reduce subsequent undergraduate numbers” (The Guardian). Meanwhile, in Canada, the Supreme Court has disallowed a law in the Francophone Quebec that stops children moving from private to public English language schools, calling the law “excessive” and unconstitutional. Quebec has one year to amend the law (EL Gazette). And in Japan, a new trade

agreement with India should make it easier for Indian English teachers (as well as chefs, yoga teachers and classical musicians) to work in Japan (The Guardian).

n n n Those of you who have any contact with Japan will of course be greatly distressed by the earthquake and tsunami in March and the subsequent devastation. The IEU donated $1000 towards the Japan and Pacific Disaster Appeal, at the Sydney Japanese School in Terrey Hills, and the Union would encourage any interested members to likewise donate to your favourite charity.

If you have any issues or concerns that you would like to see raised in this column, drop me a line at [email protected].

I EU Rep and Teacher at McCarthy Catholic College Emu Plains

Keith Heggart is making good use of his IT skills, starting with the hot button issue of school funding.

When the IEU sent out a call – and emailed a link – to schools, asking them to participate in an online survey accompanying the Union’s submission to the Gonski school funding review, Keith came to the party. And he invited all his colleagues.

Thinking outside the box, Keith recreated the survey as a Google Docs ‘edit and share’ form. He used his gmail account to email it to all staff, inviting them to directly enter their answers. With a response rate of around 50%, he was then able to compile the common themes for inclusion in the review.

Describing the process as “ridiculously easy”, Keith says “three flashpoint issues” stood out from the responses.

“Our school has been changing over the past few years, with the numbers of ethnic groups and students from non-English speaking backgrounds increasing. We wanted to ensure we

got the support we needed … and this kind of support costs money. Our staff members also raised concerns regarding our special needs students, and the increasing amount of admin teachers are expected to do.”

Keith says his colleagues shared a feeling that “the squeaky wheel gets the oil, and if we don’t say anything then nothing will change”.

It’s not entirely unexpected that Keith, who teaches business studies and ancient history, would dip into his formidable information and communication technology skills to find a solution. As one of about 50 Apple Distinguished Educators in Australia, Keith feels strongly about giving people a chance to speak out by whatever method works best.

“I like to see things done right and I don’t like to see people browbeaten. Everyone needs a voice, not just teachers but support staff and admin staff and students too.

“When the funding survey came up I wanted to communicate the importance of it. But I didn’t want to do it in a

meeting environment because if a few people dominated then not everyone would get to have a say. “

Keith says it might have been the first time he used this system “but it won’t be the last”.

“I want to set up an asynchronous forum so people can contribute when it suits them,” he says, suggesting that free phpBB bulletin board software might be the way to go.

In the meantime, colleagues are just appreciating having input into the review.

“I got good feedback. They were really pleased they got to have their say and many are interested in using that approach in the future.”

Resources:http://www.phpbb.comhttp://docs.google.comhttp://mail.google.com/mailhttp://www.apple.com/education/apple-distinguished-educator/

Look out for the next issue of IE magazine, which will feature more resources recommended by Keith.

"The squeaky wheel gets the oil, and if we don’t say anything then nothing will change."

More is more on school funding response


on the ground

7

Stronger voice for nurses

For the payment of one union fee school nurses can now

utilise the industrial strength of the IEU and the professional expertise of the NSW Nurses Association.

Last year’s settlement of industry-wide agreements with NSW Independent schools was the catalyst for the dual membership agreement.

Sue Peterie, President of the NSW School Nurses Association, was one of the first to take up the option.

She sees linking with teachers and support staff as the best way for nurses to have their skills and qualifications recognised while still valuing the specialist nursing advice available from the Association.

Sue had been nursing for nearly 30 years when she started at Tara Anglican School. She arrived with experience in public hospitals, the community, private practice and stints in palliative care and pediatrics.

She had nursed in NSW, the ACT and Tasmania.

“I enjoy this job and have a very

good relationship with the teaching staff,” she says. “But the fact is, as a nurse you are isolated and you work autonomously.

“School nurses run a full practice and, sometimes, that can be daunting. We rely very much on our basic nursing skills, particularly our assessment skills.

“Increasingly, we find ourselves dealing with mental health assessments and filling in as counsellors. Sometimes, we have to work out whether maths is the issue or a girl has a genuine medical condition that needs attention.”

People contact and variety are two of the things she enjoys about school nursing.

Tara educates girls, including boarders, from preschool to Year 12. It also has a few 19 and 20-year-olds, mainly from Asia, who are completing their higher school certificate before embarking on Australian university studies.

“They are young women with their own issues and, sometimes, their own traditional remedies,” Sue says. “It can be a challenge to advise on alternative medicines when you can’t even read the label on the bottle.”

This is exactly the sort of scenario that can mean a call to the Nurses Association to check out the medical, ethical and legal considerations.

Sue is the first port of call for sprains and breaks from the sports fields and

has dealt with hypoglycemic incidents as well as the the odd bout of chest pain among adult members of the school community.

She has already had discussions with IEU officials Dick Shearman and Anne Lajoie about what she and her colleagues regard as the under-valuing of nurses in the sector.

“School nurses are generally paid according to the 2010 Enterprise

Agreement but the majority feel the remuneration does not reflect our skills or experience.

“We are hoping the IEU can help us negotiate better wages and conditions in the next round of enterprise bargaining.”

There are more than 120 nurses across NSW independent schools and a smaller number in Catholic schools.

New members nurse high expectations

A healthy approach to work

“Sometimes, we have to work out whether maths is the issue or a girl has a genuine medical condition that needs attention.”

“As a lone practitioner looking after students, teachers and

other staff, the job of a school nurse can be so diverse,” says Janette Clay, Secretary of the School Nurses’ Assocation who is located at William Carey Christian School in Prestons.

The duties cover a wide gamut – including diagnostic, advisory, pastoral, educational and administrative, she explains.

“In looking after medical needs you are the one making decisions all day long about the required level of care which can vary from trying to work out whether the patient needs a heat pack or an

ambulance,” she says.

“And in some of the boarding schools these can be very well-equipped, almost like mini hospitals."

Not that Janette is complaining. Since taking up the position at William Carey almost 14 years ago, after a lengthy stint of child rearing and study, she has thrived on the diversity of the job and

full integration into school life. “I love it and feel really valued here,” she says.

“The expansion and diversification of the role has been really stimulating and I’ve really welcomed the opportunities and challenges for further training that it has offered. I believe the more we do, the more credible the role becomes.”

It's important for nurses to have contact with each other, as well support and access to continuing education, which their Association is constantly endeavouring to provide.

Janette says the agreement for school nurses to join the IEU is a further positive step. “They understand the complexities of schools so well that they will be able to relate to the uniqueness of our position.

“Our association with them thus far indicates a strong and positive attitude that suggests they will be very effective in looking after our interests," she adds.

“I am treated very well at William Carey but philosophically I believe that unions support people who can’t speak for themselves, so it is very important to belong. And in our profession, it’s wise to have good legal coverage,” she says.

“Although that’s true, my position as a Christian is that legal aspects are not foremost in my mind. It’s a Biblical principle to care for people as I would want to be cared for, not just because I am frightened I will end up in court.

“Often the world perceives protection (wanting to cover yourself ) as a fear-driven principle which is really sad. It takes the positive aspect of caring for one another out of it.

“In a Christian school such as ours, holistic care is the bedrock of the educational ethos - it’s about body, mind and soul. By providing a school nurse and clinic that care is shown in a tangible, practical way."

Jim MarrJO U r n a l I S t

Mary ColbertJO U r n a l I S t


www.ieu.asn.au

2010 2009

$

ACCUMULATED FUNDS

General Funds 11,620,750 10,616,931

Asset Revaluation Reserve 1,776,354 -

13,397,104 10,616,931

Represented by:

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash at bank 2,096,354 4,447,333

Cash on hand 1,700 1,700

Interest Bearing Deposit 3,408,313 1,391,667

Other 287,486 61,406

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 5,793,853 5,902,106

NON CURRENT ASSETS

Investments 17 17

Land & Buildings 9,405,749 6,539,205

Building improvements (at cost) 1,107,305 1,047,784

Less: Accumulated Depreciation (823,854) (747,763)

Motor Vehicles (at cost) 503,707 436,197


Office Furniture & Fittings (at cost) 419,143 411,261


Plant & Equipment (at cost) 689,946 763,889


Intangibles–Computer Softwares 191,064 -

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 10,266,400 7,122,865

TOTAL ASSETS 16,060,253 13,024,971

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Account Payables 329,975 354,960

Provisions 2,087,848 1,939,666

Advances 245,326 113,414

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 2,663,149 2,408,040

TOTAL LIABILITIES 2,663,149 2,408,040

NET ASSETS 13,397,104 10,616,931

NEW SOUTH WALES INDEPENDENT EDUCATION UNION

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

SUMMARY OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010

The financial statements of the NSW Independent Education Union have been audited in accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Relations Act 1996 and the following summary is provided for members in accordance with Section 263 (2) of the Act.

A copy of the Auditor’s Report, Accounts and Statements will be supplied free of charge to members who request same.

Certificates required to be given under the Act by the Accounting Officer and the Committee of Management have been completed in accordance with the provisions of the Act and contain no qualifications.

In accordance with the requirements of the Industrial Relations Act 1996, the attention of members is drawn to the provisions of sub-sections (1) and (2) of Section 282 (3) which read as follows:

(1) A member of an organisation, or a Registrar, may apply to the organisation for specified prescribed information in relation to the organisation.

(2) An organisation must, on application made under subsection (1) by a member of the Organisation or a Registrar, make the specified information available to the member or Registrar in such a manner, and within such time, as prescribed by the regulations.

IEU Financial statements for year end 31 December 2010


on the ground

NEW SOUTH WALES INDEPENDENT EDUCATION UNION

INCOME STATEMENT

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010

2010 2009

$ $

INCOME

Membership Contributions 10,623,895 10,139,017

Other Income 1,019,642 916,269

11,643,537 11,055,286

EXPENDITURE

Administration Expenses 3,900,808 3,746,415

Donation and Grants 8,369 3,961

Capitation and Affiliation Fees 541,906 499,299

Professional Fees & Services 218,904 186,903

Salaries & Allowances 5,324,545 4,979,209

Superannuation & Associated Cost 645,186 596,583

10,639,718 10,012,370

NET OPERATING SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) 1,003,819 1,042,916

CHANGE IN FAIR VALUE OF ASSET 1,776,354 -

SURPLUS FOR YEAR 2,780,173 1,042,916

ACCUMULATED FUNDS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 10,616,931 9,574,015

ACCUMULATED FUNDS AT END OF YEAR 13,397,104 10,616,931

NSW INDEPENDENT EDUCATION UNION

AUDITORS CERTIFICATEWe certify that the above summary is a fair and accurate summary of the financial statements of the NSW Independent Education Union for the year ended December 31 2010. Our Auditors’ Report dated 18 March 2011 on the financial statements did not contain particulars of any deficiency, failure or shortcomings as referred to in the Industrial Relations Act, 1996.

D W SUTHERLAND & PARTNERS

TIM HOPartnerRegistered Company Auditor

The IEU website (www.ieu.asn.au) carries regular updates of local and international news with a trade union flavour. IEU Assistant Secretary John QUESSY reproduces below some recent items.

LabourBites{

Land of the freeIn the USA the Republican party

has shifted its attack on unions and labour laws from Ohio and Wisconsin to Maine with the Grand Old Party Governor supporting legislation which would allow employers to pay as little as $5.25 per hour to anyone under 20 for the first 180 days on the job. The current minimum wage is $7.50 per hour in Maine.

The bill would also eliminate the maximum number of hours a minor of 16 or older could work on a school day and allow those under 16 to work up to four hours on any school day. In addition, the state Senate is considering laws to allow 16 year old students to work until 11pm on school nights.

Maine currently has an unemployment rate of more than 7% leading local Democrats to wonder why Republicans are pushing to create a pool of cheap labor when so many people are begging for jobs. (Source: Huffington Post)

School assaultsMore than 2000 incidents of physical,

verbal or sexual assaults by students on teachers were recorded in Tasmanian schools in the past 14 months but the figure may be much higher. “The Department only records incidents which results in the suspension of a student,” says the Minister.

However only 61 teachers recorded the assaults as workplace injuries with 23 requiring first aid and eight needing treatment by a doctor. While schools have become better at dealing with violent behavior, some commentators are questioning why OHS reporting is so low. (Source: The Mercury)

Ikea embraces US anti-union culture

Swedish firm Ikea prides itself on being a responsible corporate citizen and a good employer but since it opened a massive factory in Virginia it has been the target of racial discrimination complaints, a heated

union organising battle and turnover from disgruntled employees. Workers have complained of eliminated pay rises, a frenzied pace and short notice compulsory overtime.

Many of the plant’s 335 workers want to form a union but have been frustrated by the company’s lawyers, a firm which built its reputation by keeping unions out of workplaces.

This attitude is front page news in Sweden and has caused alarm for the Swedish union, with a spokesperson noting that Ikea’s Code of Conduct guarantees workers the right to organise and stipulates that all overtime be voluntary. On top of this the wages and conditions in the US are almost third world standard compared to their European cousins.

Workers in the Swedish factories are paid a minimum of $19 per hour with a mandated five weeks paid vacation while those in Virginia get as little as $8 per hour and 12 vacation days, eight of which are on dates determined by the company. (Source: LA Times)

Delivering the messageWorkers at Rio Tinto’s Bell Bay

aluminium smelter have been watching a union produced DVD in their meal rooms despite the mining giant taking legal action to stop union officials talking to workers in the crib rooms.

The AWU has been denied access to meal rooms to talk about health and safety or other union issues, says national secretary Paul Howes.

The DVD, which features workers from other aluminium plants urging Bell Bay workers to “stick together”, has been handed out at the smelter gates and has been well received by members who have played it repeatedly.

The message from one delegate featured on the program is “I know the company will throw a lot at you, try to intimidate you. Stick together, hand in hand with the Union. It gives you a voice”. (Source: The Australian)


www.ieu.asn.au

I n inner suburban Melbourne, a battle has played out involving

that unholy trinity of faiths, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, but with some surprising twists.

The Alma Road Community House, in East St Kilda, is a bog-standard neighbourhood centre that houses community groups, study courses and play groups. Its ilk can be found in most Australian suburbs, affording that little bit of social glue by providing a home for group activity. That is unless, of course, that activity is Islamic and then that community activity becomes, in the eyes of some, something more sinister.

For one hour a week, a Muslim group uses the Community House for a prayer meeting on Fridays. When this became widely known, it was on. In short an Islamic prayer group using a local community hall in a traditional Jewish area encountered antagonism not from the Jewish locals, in fact many prominent Jewish groups came out in support of the ‘‘right to prayer’’, but from a group talking the secular talk. However, the promoters of secular society had documented links to Fred Nile’s Christian Democratic Party.

The main protagonists were a group known as the Q Society. This Society is an anti-Islamic group. There are lots of pictures on its website of the Aussie

flag and much disturbing rhetoric about some ill-defined threat posed by Islam to Australian society.

The society is so named because it was formed in the eastern Melbourne suburb of Kew. But this movement is not just based in Kew. Its postal address is in Altona, 10 kilometres from East St Kilda and it lists a Sydney telephone number.

In justifying their objections, a spokeswoman for the Q Society, Vickie Janson said in an interview, that a Muslim friend of hers became more hardline after the animosity she encountered after 9/11. For some reason, Janson doesn’t seem to understand that her actions in founding the Q Society will make Australian Muslims more hardline and determined to assert their cultural identity.

The struggle in East St Kilda escalated and soon the battle was being played out in the planning committee of the local council, the City of Port Phillip, where once I served. I know, to my cost, that Port Phillip loves a good planning stoush. It is almost unique in attracting more than 10,000 objections to certain proposals. The Islamic group found itself at the centre of a planning dispute.

In short, objections were lodged against an application from the City of Port Phillip to itself, to change the conditions of the Alma Rd centre to a

‘‘place of assembly’’, which would allow for meetings of up to 100 people, from a previous limit of 10 people. About 50 were regularly attending the Friday night Islamic prayer group.

On the planning question, however, there was no sustainable objection. Alma Road Community House is on a busy arterial road. The increase in parking demand is trivial in the scheme of things. There are 15 churches and synagogues within a stone’s throw. This poor little community group affects no one. But the letter of the law gave the objectors an in.

So in an irony that would not believed if it was in a fiction, all the parties battled it out on Harmony Day — March 21 — a day to celebrate out cultural diversity. The Port Phillip Council planning meeting on that day approved the application, so the prayer sessions can continue without any further problem.

It was a typically passionate stoush with hundreds attending and civil libertarian groups strutting their stuff. This was an issue where the ostensible arguments hid the real agenda. So the agenda of the Jewish groups was ostensibly inclusive but was saying ‘‘Don’t kick marginal religious groups like us.’’ The Christian-linked group was peddling its disturbing message under a veneer of secularism. The neighbours

were hopping on the hate train under the guise of planning issues. The councillors were obliged to have open minds, but came to the meeting wearing orange ribbons (the symbol of Harmony Day). So many hidden agendas were buried beneath piles of passionate bulldust. Ultimately, the right decision was made and amen to that.

This story from East St Kilda is one of only many happening across Australia. In Newcastle, NSW, for example, similar issues are being played out in relation to the proposed Elermore Vale mosque.

What are the lessons for the godless? First bigots will steal our secular clothes to bash religious minorities they oppose. Such bigots will tarnish our brands.

Secondly, ostensible motives hide an array of hidden motives. Finally, the biggest weapon we have in our armoury is love and tolerance. Let’s deploy it more frequently. So I say long live community prayer sessions, Islamic or otherwise.

What is your view?

When should planning rules interfere in religious practice?

Why are Islamic institutions more prone to planning objection? Is it bigotry or do Muslims take up more parking spaces than non-Muslims?

Send your views to [email protected]

By Dick Gross

This article originally appeared in Fairfax's National Times section in The Age on 4 April 2011 and is reprinted with kind permission.

The little group that could

L ate last year the Conference of Catholic Diocesan Directors

of Education in the NSW and ACT produced a revised Religious Education Accreditation Framework for Teachers and Leaders in Catholic Schools.

This framework was written in the context of a pastoral letter about Catholic schooling from NSW/ACT bishops and amends a long-established set of minimum requirements for staff employed in Catholic schools.

With the announcement of the new provisions in the Archdiocese of Sydney

the IEU initiated discussions with the Catholic Education Office. There were some assurances given regarding the provision of professional development provisions during school time, but the Union will continue discussions with the Archdiocese prior to implementation. A significant change to the revised framework is the inclusion of support staff and other non-teacher employees in the requirements.

The following motion was passed by the April meeting of the IEU Executive:

That this meeting of the IEU Executive notes the publication of the document An Accreditation Document for Catholic Schools in NSW (November 2010) from the Conference of Diocesan Directors of Education which proposes

a revised set of minimum requirements for all staff employed in NSW Catholic Diocesan schools for progressive implementation from 2012.

“The Union has had initial discussions with the Sydney CEO on this issue and has been assured teachers and Coordinators should continue to meet accreditation requirements within the existing school professional development provisions, and school-based or parish activities. The new requirement for support staff likewise will be met within school professional development provisions. Further clarification will be sought regarding the requirements of Senior Leadership.

“The Union seeks further discussion with Catholic employers prior to the

implementation of the document to ensure there is no significant impact on the workloads or time demands on IEU members who are already dealing with increasing complexity in their work. In particular, the Union will monitor Diocesan intentions regarding the ‘maintenance of accreditation’ proposal to protect members from cumbersome or onerous processes.”

As adoption of the various categories within the proposed Framework are “at the discretion of each Diocesan CSO/CEO", the Union will be vigilant in monitoring the approach of the various dioceses prior to implementation.

Contact your IEU organiser if any concerns arise with local Diocesan proposals.

RE Accreditation in Catholic Schools

Gloria TaylorIEU DE p U t y SE c r E ta r y


on the ground

I EU Member and Teacher/Director at The Point Preschool Catherine

Lee has taken out the inaugural People’s Choice Earth Hour Award, and she insists it is a joint effort, writes Journalist Mary Colbert.

Catherine says she and her young charges are “very excited and proud that the children’s efforts have been recognised in this way”.

During her 11 years at The Point, in the Sutherland Shire, Catherine has been an inspirational motivator, encouraging her youngsters to whole-heartedly embrace environmental sustainability practice, cultural exchange with the local Indigenous people and numerous

other projects. “We often have a number of activities going on at the one time.

“We enter a lot of competitions as we feel that what the children are doing is amazing. They’re nurturing each other and our environment in such a caring way,” says Catherine, who consults her young charges about their activities.

“When I saw the award I asked them whether they wanted to enter and they fully supported it. They always feel that other people need to know what we are doing here. And, unless people come to visit us, they won’t know what great ideas three-and-four-year-olds have and how competent they are in doing things to make a difference. Often they are the ones who drive family

interest in sustainable living, which bodes well for the future.”

In a busy schedule, the children collect rainwater and food scraps for compost, feed worms, plant seeds, harvest vegetables and herbs, recycle materials for their art and take time to observe nature.

“While caring and nurturing their garden and the creatures that visit, the children are caring for and nurturing each other. Our children are empowered and make decisions that affect their world now and in the future. They delight in nature and make amazing discoveries every day.

“They are cautious with their water use, turn off the computer and lights every day and take the Earth Hour message home to their families. In fact, a lot of them are proactive in initiating sustainability practice at home. At preschool on Earth Hour day computers and lights are switched off all day – not just for the hour,” says Catherine.

This award is the latest in a series of acknowledgements for The Point Preschool. In 2007 their playground certified by the Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service as a wildlife haven for native animals.

In 2008 they were the runners-up in the ABC Gardening Australia Gardener of the Year and in 2009 were highly commended by the Australian Conservation Foundation’s Peter Rawlinson Award. They have also been filmed by Playschool.

The NSW Early Childhood Environmental Education Network awarded The Point Preschool its Sprouts Award for Sustainable Projects and Outstanding Practice in 2006 and in 2009 for spreading the word about sustainable practices to the community.

Other initiatives and activities involve strong cultural links with the local Indigenous Dharawal people of the Sutherland Shire. “We’ve done a lot of joint projects and try to embed their culture into everything we do here.”

The children’s passion for sustainability is matched by their strong interest in reconciliation.

There is regular interaction between the children and local Indigenous artists and storytellers. During a recent cultural visit a community elder began a huge mosaic based on a child’s drawing. Now it’s a prominent symbolic feature at the entry to the Preschool, which this year won the National Playground award in Innovative Design.

Catherine’s imprint on her charges is profound but she points out that much of the credit lies with the Preschool’s strongly supportive community.

“The sense of connection to the community and feeling of belonging is very strong here, re-enforcing to the children the value of their ideas and activities.”

IEU member wins People’s Choice Earth Hour award

“We enter a lot of competitions as we feel that what the children are doing is amazing. They’re nurturing each other and our environment in such a caring way.”

The Union is concerned that some early childhood employers still don’t seem to have got the message that all employers must comply.

The IEU has taken court action on behalf of three early childhood teachers in recent weeks. DayCare (NSW) which operates a centre in southern Sydney, has been ordered to pay $18,000 to one member and subsequently agreed to pay $3,000 to another member, having already paid an interim payment after the IEU commenced action. Early childhood teachers employed by DayCare who were not IEU members would still be waiting for their money.

The other matter relating to a different centre is still before the Court.

Modern award rates (and the much higher transitional rates which apply alongside the rates contained in the award) are complex but some employers fail to get expert advice. NSW rates that applied under the frozen state awards are preserved in the modern awards for teachers in early childhood services and child care workers until 2014. These rates were standard across the industry and still apply, but some employers try to pay rates tens of thousands of dollars lower, using the modern award as the justification. FWA increases apply on

top of the frozen rates and there is no phasedown of the rates before 2014.

If you are in fact paid a rate below the legal minimum rate (which you can check on the IEU website www.ieu.asn.au), the IEU can take legal action to recover the outstanding monies for up to six years. However, the sooner action is taken the better as recollections and pay records tend to disappear over time.

Members should also read their superannuation statements to ensure that super contributions shown on your pay slip as paid have in fact been forwarded to your fund. Most funds

will also allow this information to be checked online.

Agreement the best solutionA large number of early childhood

employers have agreed to enterprise agreements with the Union.

Almost all schools now have agreements for teachers but some small independent schools may not have agreements for support staff. If you are not covered by an agreement ring your Organiser at the Union on 9779 3200 or toll free 1800 467 943 for advice on the best way forward.

Compliance not an option for small employersFrom p2

RE Accreditation in Catholic Schools


www.ieu.asn.au

The reason Kindergarten Union (KU) is supporting the

Teachers are Teachers campaign for pay equity for early childhood teachers is very simple said Sheridan Dudley (pictured), when she was Chief Executive Officer of one of Australia’s oldest and largest employers in early childhood.

“The first and foremost reason we’re endorsing this campaign is because equity is a good and righteous outcome in its own right,” says Ms Dudley.

“Early childhood teachers teach just like any other teacher. They undertake teacher training at university, they teach, they have a curriculum and a pedagogical framework. But, they’re paid less.”

Although KU has an extremely high job retention rate employers complain of the difficulty of keeping teachers

and of a lack of new graduates entering the sector. Currently those choosing early childhood teaching are paid up to 20% less ($14 000 per year) and are qualified to teach in both early childhood and primary settings.

“My strong belief is that there is a drift out of the sector. Particularly in long day care where the days are long, the conditions are onerous, the working year is lengthy and there is often shift work. If you were an early childhood teacher in long day care the temptation would be to move to a school-based sector where you work school hours, get school holidays and get paid more,” says Ms Dudley.

NOTE: Sheridan Dudley has moved to take up the role of Chief of Staff to The Hon. Adrian Piccoli, NSW Minister for Education. Chris Legg is currently CEO of KU Children's Services.

KU supports campaign

Students take up the cause

Aimee Fitzgerald is one of a group of Newcastle University

Bachelor of Teaching (Primary and Early Childhood) activists on a mission.

On Blue Day Aimee and fellow activists organised 270 signatures in support of pay parity for early childhood teachers by approaching people on campus.

“We had a good turn-out. We spoke to so many people – and signed up many student members,” says Aimee.

“A lot of these were originally reluctant to sign because they felt it did

not impact them. But we pointed out that if conditions don’t improve and all of us go into primary teaching we’d take their jobs. Somehow that was quite persuasive,” says Aimee.

The issue impacts on Aimee in a direct way – she has a difficult choice to make.

“I see so much value in early childhood and that’s where my heart wants to go but I have to be realistic. With the increased cost of living it would be silly of me to choose an option if I‘m going to be losing out on money and hours,” said Aimee.

While the campaign has not yet delivered pay equity

there has been a significant increase in community awareness of the role of early childhood teachers and the poor pay they receive.

The visits to politicians and the media coverage associated with Blue Day have laid strong foundations to build on.

“This campaign will only be successful with the continuing

commitment of early childhood teachers to their profession and to their own value. Thank you to all who put so much in to the early stage,” says Verena Heron, IEU Industrial Officer.

“It’s now, as the campaign moves into the next stage, that we need to build pressure on the government and to keep our focus strong. Watch out for the upcoming email alerts with news of upcoming actions.”

What’s next for the Teachers are Teachers campaign?

For campaign updates and more info visit

www.teachersareteachers.org.auAimee Fitzgerald (left)

Stories by Suzanne Kowlaski-Roth

IEU JO U r n a l I S t

All staff at Gunnedah preschool wore tshirts to show their support for Blue Day.

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feature

Anne Dougherty from St Joseph’s Merewether rallied colleagues in a show of support for their early childhood teachers on Blue Day.

Maria Whitcher, Matt Brown (former member for Kiama), and Cheryl Collinson-Smith show their support for the Teachers Are Teachers campaign.

E arly Childhood teachers Maria Whitcher and Cheryl Collinson-

Smith remember having chocolate flavoured milk together over 45 years ago. They spent their early years at the same kindergarten and were in the same class all the way through to Year 6. They developed a pact in those early years that they would both work as preschool teachers.

They have since stayed in early childhood due to their love of children and their recognition of the importance of the early years, even though the pay is much higher in primary schools.

Cheryl says both Maria and her are hoping, along with all their Early Childhood colleagues that this campaign will help them gain “The Real Thing —EQUALITY IN PAY".

Veteran Director of Cabarita Mortlake Kindergarten, Venie Parsons (right) with Trish Dolan. Venie says she’s having problems recruiting university trained early childhood teachers.

“ It’s a real worry finding good teachers. A lot of teachers of

my generation are retiring and I’m concerned about what the future holds for preschools and long day care centres,” says Director Venie Parsons, who’s been at Cabarita Mortlake Kindergarten for 35 years.

“Younger teachers are just not coming into early childhood. I’ve had fantastic student teachers who I’d love to employ but they say, ‘Sorry I want

to stay but I just can’t afford to’, ” she says.

Early childhood teacher at the preschool Trish Dolan says that it’s time early childhood was funded properly.

“It’s about commitment to quality education. Research has proven again and again how the early years are the most important and yet as teachers our work is being undervalued when you look at the pay inequity,” she says.

Veterans worry about future

Early bond stays strong

Local media coverageNewcastle HeraldTeachers don’t typically want their pupils to turn blue, but that’s exactly what happened yesterday at preschools and childcare centres around the region. Centres were turned into a sea of blue for the Independent Education Union’s ‘‘Blue Day’’. It was a literal demonstration of the teachers’ ‘‘blue’’ with the state government about pay parity for early childhood teachers.

The Port Stephens ExaminerTeachers and students wore blue and hung blue banners outside community preschools at Raymond Terrace, Medowie and Birubi Point on March 23… Once seen as glorified babysitters, Ms Mossman said her profession now had a recognised role in student development.

The Area NewsGriffith East Preschool director Suzy Tucker said that while early childhood teachers loved their job, greater equality was needed. “The statewide campaign day was held on Wednesday, but we have kept the blue theme going all week and most of our families have been really supportive,” she said.

Namoi Valley Independent “The most important reason is that you can’t attract quality staff if you can’t pay them the equivalent pay. “We don’t want to lose those who are so passionate and want to be here,” she [Ms Leys] said.

Cowra GuardianToday, Early Childhood Services around the state, including services in Cowra; ABC Children’s Centre, Carinya Early Childhood Centre, Cowra Early Childhood Mobile Service, Cowra Family Day Care and Cowra Early Childhood Services Out Of School Hours Care will display posters, wear campaign t-shirts and other blue clothing and accessories, do blue based activities and hang blue banners out the front of their services to raise awareness of the fact that early childhood teachers can receive up to 20% less than other teachers despite the same training.

Lots more photos and news stories are on the campaign website

www.teachersareteachers.org.au


www.ieu.asn.au

I EU Member, English teacher, author and published playwright

Liz Hill is proving that pursuing passions outside of work can have a positive impact in the classroom. And the benefits are working both ways.

Liz has always loved to write, and it was this desire that lead her in the first place, as a mature aged student, to study teaching.

“I did a short story writing course. I liked it so much it inspired me to become an English teacher,” says the former hairdresser who now teaches English at St Joseph’s Catholic College in East Gosford.

The course also left Liz with a small network of fellow writers who continue to provide each other with mentoring, guidance and support.

“It’s lovely having the trust of people because with writing you need it so you

are not defensive but can be open to their positive critiques. This enables you to take suggestions on board, while not necessarily following them.

“This also applies when speaking with the girls in Year 11 Advanced English. I say ‘this is my suggestion but it’s up to you — in the end it’s your writing’. A teacher can have such a strong impact but it’s about them doing what they think is best.”

Throughout her time working as a teacher, Liz has continued to stay open to writing opportunities. One such chance presented itself in the form of the Central Coast Short and Sweet Competition — part of an international 10-minute play contest — which she read about it in the Express Advocate.

“I’d never written a play before and was teaching Year 11 girls full-time. I’d been reflecting on where I’d come from as a mature age student who had already gone through marriage and divorce, while they were just getting their first boyfriends.

“I was thinking about what women go through and wrote the play ‘Love, Live Life’ about the three stages of womanhood.”

Aside from the satisfaction of seeing her play performed as part of the Short and Sweet Festival, ‘Love, Live Life’ has also left Liz with an excellent classroom resource.

“I showed the DVD of my play when Year 10 did a unit on script writing. It was a great teaching tool as we were able to discuss, for example, why certain colours were used and why someone was standing a particular way. It demonstrated what we were talking about in a practical sense.”

Other projects currently inspiring Liz include a book she is writing about a young girl growing up in the 1970s, which she says is influenced by being around young people today.

She’d started writing it while commuting to a course in Sydney but put it away temporarily.

“I got it out at Christmas and thought ‘actually, this is quite good!’ Like

the play, it came about because I am teaching teenagers. It was subconscious — I didn’t mean to write young adult fiction.”

Liz continues to draw inspiration from her career but, most of all, she continues to write.

“All of this comes back to my philosophy of being a teacher: if you want something bad enough you will do it. You will go out and make it happen and you won’t be stopped – for no other reason than the personal satisfaction of achieving a goal you want to reach. It’s also about doing the best you can.

“I’d like to think my students would get this from me. Even if you don’t do well you cannot feel a failure because you’re not striving against anyone else – you’re just there to do your best and explore different possibilities.”

Love, live (a passionate) life

“If you want something bad enough you will do it. You will

go out and make it happen and you won’t

be stopped.”

Tara de BoehmlerIEU JO U r n a l I S t


feature

When IEU Member Gaye Menzies began her

principalship at Auburn Adventist School, she was already no stranger to change. Now the school is undergoing one of its biggest transformations yet.

Before starting at the school, Gaye’s career had seen her teach in a variety of settings, from a low socio-economic state school in New Zealand to an Adventist hospital in Hong Kong teaching nine Australian-expat Chinese children of various grades.

But it was during a year teaching Year’s 3 and 4 at Auburn Adventist School, that Gaye started thinking about how she would change things if she had a chance.

“I knew the principal here was retiring and I’d really thought about things I’d like to put into place here.”

But when the position became open, Gaye was teaching at another school.

“I know it sounds ridiculous. I didn’t apply. I wanted the job so badly.”

Gaye was just about to start the new school year when she received a call and was offered the Auburn Adventist School’s Principal’s post.

“I wanted to make sure it was God’s plan, not my plan.”

For six years Gaye was principal at the Auburn Adventist School, until a board of directors initiated a merger three years ago with Sydney Adventist College in Strathfield. This created a massive shift in the way the schools were

restructured, and in Gaye’s own role. She is now Head of the Auburn Campus and there is another principal who oversees both schools. The name of the school changed from Auburn Adventist School to Sydney Adventist College, Auburn Campus.

“A wider board of directors decided they wanted all Adventist schools to be Prep to Year 12 but we’ve got a smash repairs shop on one side, and Centrelink on the other and apartments behind us – we just didn’t have room to grow to become a high school.

“So it was decided first to combine the school boards and then Year’s 5 and 6 were moved to the Strathfield Campus, where a middle school was created.”

Gaye says this was a difficult time for staff, with events moving quickly, and they were keen not to inconvenience parents. But despite the challenges, Gaye is embracing a new chapter for her school.

“Because we are small, this is an ideal place for a junior school. I’ve always wanted to nurture the community atmosphere and have parents feel welcome to come in here. Because we are a very multicultural school with many non-English speaking parents, some of them were a bit scared before.”

A playgroup held once a week for children not old enough to attend school is contributing to a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and this term a ‘Stop, Chat and Run’ will encourage parents to have a cuppa and mingle before playgroup on Wednesday morning.

The diversity of Sydney Adventist College is something of which Gaye is understandably proud.

“Our students include Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians. The majority of our students are non-Christian and we like to show respect and tolerance for their religions. We’re happy to have these families – we even have children fasting for Ramadan – as long as the respect and tolerance are reciprocated.

“We don’t do exclusions from Bible classes but we never say ‘you must become a Christian or a Seventh Day Adventist’ and we’re not ramming a doctrine down their throats. We’re just exposing them to another viewpoint.”

The school is part of the National Partnerships Program for low-SES schools and this year extra funding will see a focus on literacy.

“We’ve been trialing multi-age classes, according to ability, and so far we have had good feedback.”

An experienced teacher has been coming weekly to mentor staff and a new BER-funded hall is giving the kids somewhere to play on a rainy day plus an appropriate space for gatherings and performances.

For a person who is no stranger to change, despite the challenges, Gaye is finding much to celebrate.

“It is such a blessing to have this assistance. We have a wide range of abilities and backgrounds here and we are committed to catering for all of them.”

“I’ve always wanted to nurture the community atmosphere and have parents feel welcome to come in here.”

Sydney Adventist agents of change


Twenty eight years is a long time to be in education but

Carol Bartkiewicz, PDHPE Advisor at Parramatta Catholic Education Office, still can’t get enough of it.

She thrives on a role that is constantly evolving and enables her to interact with teachers, government department stakeholders, parents and student groups.

“What makes my job so stimulating is that I’m constantly on the go travelling between schools, and that the role is constantly evolving,” she says.

When she was invited to return to the CEO from a 15-year-break raising a family, the former English/History teacher hardly imagined that the Catholic Education Office would offer her so many options.

They enabled Carol to accommodate family interests in a three — later expanded to four — day position. The CEO also supported her in completing a degree and postgraduate studies (Masters in Adult Education) which enabled her to work as a teacher-educator and, into the bargain, offered her a position with constantly broadening horizons.

“I was a two-year trained teacher when I came back in 1984 to the CEO. They

utilised my training in natural family planning — acquired during time out from education — by offering me work as a personal development teacher on non-mandatory programs in sex education for the upper primary school.

When PDHPE was introduced as a new curriculum area, her role expanded to regional advisor. “It was kind of evolutionary. I suppose I was at the right place at the right time,” Carol says.

With further broadening in the syllabus, her specific responsibilities expanded to cover drug education, protective behaviours and the grief and loss program, Seasons for Growth, that she oversees in the diocese.

“I train adults — teachers or qualified parents — to deliver the eight-week sessions which aim to provide positive strategies to small groups of students in dealing with grief and loss resulting from death or divorce of parents.

Protective behaviours includes in-service programs designed to empower and encourage students to speak out about, seek help and deal with any kind of abuse in their lives, whether it be physical, sexual, mental or emotional.

Carol says the most successful are individual school-instigated programs with attempts to cater to parental information sessions the most challenging.

“Parent education is needed but unfortunately it can’t be made

compulsory, so at many of these we tend to preach to the converted.

“We really need to engage parents, some of whom are opting out, to start taking back some of the responsibility for preparing their children to live in the world," she says.

“There is a tendency to put too much pressure on schools. There is a limit to what they can tackle well in an already crowded syllabus, ruled by the tyranny of the curriculum.”

The teacher-educator views her role as a conduit — responsible for

disseminating, informing and updating schools about resources, conferences, seminars and in-service programs on relevant or pressing topic areas.

For instance, a recent revised release of the 2011 National Safe Schools Framework addresses guidelines on the prevention of aggressive or invasive behaviours such as bullying or cyber bullying.

“We always have to modify education to keep up with trends and address key issues in a constantly changing society."

Amission to improve workplace safety is far from accomplished,

says a Chilean mining organiser on an Australian visit.

Recently Cristian Cuevas, the President of the Confederation of Chilean Copper Miners, spoke about working conditions in his country.

In the immediate wake of an ABC Four Corners’ program days earlier depicting the impact of their celebrity status on the 33 survivors of the San Jose mine collapse (spanning cult status to post-traumatic stress, psychological and relationship problems), Cuevas revealed less publicised aspects of the industrial and political climate.

At the time of the October 2010 rescue, workers held up a sign declaring Mission Accomplished (Mision

Cumplida). But according to Cuevas, in a country where union membership is discouraged, the realty of conditions for miners remains hazardous.

Prior to the rescue Chilean President, Sebastian Pinera, visited London (meeting PM David Cameron and the Queen), making assurances on newscasts and BBC program, Hard Talk, that immediate action to safeguard miners would be implemented.

Six months later, figures reveal that 14 miners have died in safety related accidents and the government still has not ratified the relevant ILO Convention 176.

In a country where mining accidents are common, says Cuevas, and unions can be suppressed, only one of the 33 rescued workers belonged to the union - and possibly his membership had lapsed.

Cuevas, who has several teacher siblings, spoke about the government push for structural changes to education. These include casualising of the work-force to the point where many teachers are compelled to re-apply for their jobs from year to year, resulting in

limitation of opportunities, reduced income and job security.

The IEU appreciates the opportunity to exchange stories, ideas and opinions with international colleagues.

Mission unaccomplished

Always on the move

www.ieu.asn.au

Mary ColbertJO U r n a l I S t

IEU Deputy Secretary Gloria Taylor with Cristian Cuevas.


overview

Tobogganing, ice fishing, skiing or ice-skating? These

are some of the typical activities teachers on exchange are now enjoying.

Michelle Nightingale, a teacher from St Thomas Aquinas School, Springwood in the Blue Mountains, and her husband Ken are now enjoying life in southern Ontario.

They’ve been to Niagara Falls twice, and black bear country at Haliburton. Michelle says teaching expectations in Canada are different, and she has had her ups and downs, but overall the experience has been “wonderful”.

Ken Pratt is on exchange from St Andrew’s Cathedral School in the heart of Sydney.

He’s also in Canada and has played in an ice hockey match with other

exchange teachers, and he’s getting used to getting around on snowshoes.

Applications are now open for 2012, with positions available mostly in Canada, but there are a few in Colorado and the UK too.

Brenda is from Calgary, Alberta and teaches grade 6. Her three-bedroom house is adjacent to a lake. She would like to exchange with a Sydney Catholic schoolteacher.

Colin teaches PE at Comax, in Canada. His school is surrounded by forest and has glacier views.

Colin would like to exchange with a teacher who lives on Sydney’s northern beaches.

To see more possible exchanges and for further information, visit the Union’s website www.ieu.asn.au.

Michelle Nightingale and her family (left) and Ken Pratt experience exchange life to the full.

What are you doing this weekend?exchange news:

This is a week when we can all do something about poverty

ANTI-POVERTY WEEK16-22 October 2011

Poverty and severe hardship affect more than a million Australians. Around the world more than a billion people are desperately poor.

The main aims of Anti-Poverty Week are to:

• strengthen public understanding of the causes and consequences of poverty and hardship around the world and within Australia;

• encourage research, discussion and action to address these problems, including action by individuals, communities, organisations and governments.

Last year, at least 600 organisations around Australia participated in more than 450 activities during the Week, with a total participation of more than 10,000 people.

> Why not organise a display, stall or award?> Maybe a workshop, lecture or forum?> How about a fundraiser, fact sheet or petition?

For information and ideas, visit the website, oremail [email protected] or call 1300 797 290

www.antipovertyweek.org.au


19 August, 2011

Mercure Hotel

818-820 George St

SYDNEY

8.45am - 3.30pm

$40 for members

$80 for non members

For further information contact Pam Smith or Betty Tan on 9779 3200 or toll free 1800 467 943 or [email protected] or [email protected]

The IEU is an endorsed provider of NSW Institute of Teachers’ registered professional development for the maintenance of accreditation at Professional Competence.

Scope of Endorsement – Elements 2,3,4,5,6 and 7 of the Professional Teaching Standards.

2011 IEU Women’s

Conference

Women and equity - achievement & action in the iWd centenary year

WomensConf_11_fly.indd 1 29/04/11 1:41 PM

KEYNOTE SPEAKERGed Kearney – President

Australian Council of Trade Unions

WORKSHOPS1. Support for early career teachers and their mentors (Elizabeth Finlay – IEU)

2. On Your Mark: Get Set – New 2012 health and safety framework (Esther Walsh – IEU)

3. Protecting and enhancing equity in the workplace – the role of diocesan Equal Opportunity committees (EO Committe members)

4. Building confidence at work

(Natasha Flores and Michael Bracken – IEU)

5. Equity in the Classroom for Students with Special Needs - practical strategies

(Patricia Murnane – IEU Executive member)

6. Cyber Safety in Schools

(Kellie Britnell – Australian Communications and Media Authority)

For further information or a registration form, please contact Pam Smith or Bety Tan

on 9779 3200 or 1800 467 943 or email [email protected]

Shorts{n The Sydney Writer’s Festival is on again from 16-22 May 2011 with lots of things for schools in the School Days program. For those that can’t make it, visit the Writers Talk Website (click on the link on the Sydney Writer’s Festival homepage) for some wonderful interviews with award-winning writers from Australia and overseas discussing their books and craft. See http://www.swf.org.au.

n n Birds Australia is the nation’s oldest bird conservation organisation dedicated to the ‘study, conservation and enjoyment of native birds and their habitats’. Not only does Birds Australia have regional birding groups and run the Birds in Backyards program, it also operates the Birds Australia Discovery Centre at Sydney Olympic Park, open on weekdays by appointment. There’s lots of information sheets about birds on the website too. More at www.birdsaustralia.com.au.

n n n Calling all lovers of Australian children’s literature. Among the pine trees on Shipley Plateau in the Blue Mountains you can find the new home for Australian children’s picture books – Pinerolo — the children’s book cottage.

Pinerolo also offers exhibitions, a research library, school visits, workshops and accommodation for writers and artists. More details at www.pinerolo.com.au.

n n n n If you want to grow food but have no land, or perhaps you have land and want to share it and feel good, then check out this social networking service that introduces both parties to each other: http://www.landshareaustralia.com.au.

n n n n n Regular exercise, particularly for children, has been proven to feed the brain "helping to aid learning and improve thinking", says landmark research presented at the International Conference of the Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation. Read more at http://www.achper.org.au.

n n n n n n Women only account for 27% of elected local government councillors but the Local Government Association wants to change that. Download a free copy full of profiles and case studies of women at all levels of government at http://www.alga.asn.au/publications/ALGA_WomenInPolitics.pdf.

www.ieu.asn.au

Seeking volunteer tutors to help provide support to disadvantaged high school students in Sydney. Flexible times and locations in inner city/inner west and eastern suburbs. Training sessions in first week in June.

Contact WEAVE on 9557 2848 for application form or email: [email protected]

volunteer tutors volunteer tutors

19 August, 2011

Mercure Hotel

818-820 George St

SYDNEY

8.45am - 3.30pm

$40 for members

$80 for non members


overview

A special event has acknowledged women making a significant

contribution to Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Sydney.

Sydney CEO and the Diocese’s Equal Opportunity Committee celebrated the centenary of International Women’s Day on 7 March with the presentation of awards and a garden cocktail party at CEO Leichhardt. The Archdiocese awarded 20 certificates

of commendation and sixteen awards for significant contribution to Catholic education. These fell into four categories: contribution to school leadership; contribution to support to schools; contribution to educational and community partnerships; and pioneers in education.

The IEU is represented on the Sydney CEO Equal Opportunity for Women Committee by Organisers Pam Smith and

Ann-Maree McEwan along with member teachers, principals, support staff and CEO staff.

The Union is proud of its part in bringing the idea of an awards event to life through the work of the Sydney Archdiocese EO Committee. Congratulations to Dr Dan White, the Executive Director of the CEO and the Director of Human Resources, Jane Comensoli for embracing the idea and

to Nancy Albatti the convenor of the Equal Opportunity Committee for doing a fantastic job in organising the event.

Recipients of awards who attended with their principals, friends and families seemed thrilled, appreciative and surprised to be honoured. They included many IEU members working in schools and CEO offices as well as retired members and friends of the IEU.

Women’s contributions acknowledged

HIGHLY COMMENDED Pamela Barrington-SmithAmanda BrasierFrancene BryceHelen BurnsLisa BuxtonPamela ChristieMaureen ClearyMichelle CutrupiSharyn Dickerson Lindsay Donnan

Jennifer DoveCarmel FarrugiaChristine HarriganMarion HenrySue MoffatMarie NilonPatricia ThomasSue ThomsonSr Virginia WilkinsonBernadette Yeo Marian ShoebridgeMary Cloran

The IEU congratulates all award recipients:

Words and photos by IEU Organiser Ann-Maree McEwan

Caroline Benedet

Sr Patricia Nagle

Marian Shoebridge Elizabeth Blain Sr Virginia Wilkinson Simone Babic (L) Damian Carlton (R) Sharyn Dickerson

Jane Donovan Mary Cloran Lindsay Donnan Maureen Cleary Pamela Barrington-Smith

Janice Haydon (L ) Natalie Mcnamara (R) Jane Bridges and guest Anna Dickinson (L) Lisa Buxton (R)

FOR SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO CATHOLIC EDUCATION BY WOMENContribution to School LeadershipJanice HaydonAnna DickinsonAllana VedderJane Donovan

Contribution to support to schoolsGeni HuntCaroline Benedet

Contribution to Educational and Community PartnershipsElizabeth BlainSimone BabicJane BridgesDr Nance MillerPioneers in EducationSr Patricia NagleSr Patricia KennedyNatalie McNamaraAnne Garvan


www.ieu.asn.au

[ report from ] PresidentChris Wilkinson

[ report from ] Independent SchoolsMichelle Omeros Vice President, Non Systemic Schools

[ report from ] Principals BranchDoug Garnett Principal's Branch President

Support staff classifications

Protect and enhance

Training opportunities not be missed

Recent IEU principals’ gatherings in Yamba, Mudgee, Armidale and

Wollongong have provided valuable opportunities for the Union to meet with Catholic sector principals and discuss the 2011 professional and industrial agenda.

The Union also met with Aspect principals in Parramatta on 17 March as part of the campaign to achieve an agenda to protect and enhance their remuneration and working conditions. Aspect has denied its principals a pay rise since 2009.

At Mudgee on 31 March, the IEU had pleasure in hosting drinks at an inter-diocesan conference involving principals from the Maitland-Newcastle, Wilcannia-Forbes and Bathurst dioceses. Issues from this and other recent principals’ meetings will be pursued with employers as appropriate.

Wollongong Diocese principals gathered on 7 April to honour the contribution of Chris Miller to the IEU on behalf of principals at diocesan, IEU Branch and NSW/ACT Council levels.

Forthcoming IEU principals’ events include the annual seminar for early career principals at Parramatta on 19 May and meetings with Broken Bay principals on 23 June, Maitland-Newcastle principals on 29 July, and with Bathurst principals on 11 August.

Within the context of negotiating new Catholic sector agreements, including for principals, Principals’ Branch has established a reference group to work with the Union in developing the principals’ claim for the next agreement.

The Term 2 Principals’ Branch meeting will be held at the IEU’s Parramatta office on 14 May.

It is important that support staff in independent schools know their

rights in relation to their classification and wages, otherwise they may not be aware that they are being classified and paid incorrectly. This could lead to embarrassment on the part of the employee, who feels they need to plead for their entitlements. Such a scenario should not occur. It is the responsibility of the employer to be equipped with the knowledge and skill to pay their staff appropriately.

Support staff are appointed to an appropriate level as determined by their skills and the duties they are required to perform in their position.

Generally, Level 1 School Assistants require no previous experience, Level 2 should have the experience and skills required to perform basic duties, Level 3 should possess technical competencies required for the position, while Level 4 should have detailed knowledge of complex procedures. Refer to your agreement for further information and ensure that you have been classified accordingly.

Clerical and administrative support staff duties range from basic clerical

tasks, to a range of clerical duties and high levels of financial responsibility to financial advice to the Principal. Clerical and administrative staff generally have progression to a higher step within each level after a year’s full time service.

It is also important to be aware that for most classifications, if you have been called upon to temporarily perform duties of a higher grade for more than five days you should be paid at the higher grade rate for the whole period during which you performed those duties.

Also, check your agreement to see what entitlements you have in relation to meals, first aid and medication allowance and travelling expenses.

"It is the responsibility of the employer to be equipped with

the knowledge and skill to pay their staff

appropriately."

Welcome back to Term 2. I do hope everyone had a relaxing holiday.

Term 2 is always a busy one as we gear up for NAPLAN in May, half yearly exams and report writing.

Professional development for all members is high on the agenda and the IEU’s program has been planned to cater for members in all sectors.

Quite a number of PIP (Pedagogy in the Pub) sessions with the theme, Be Wary Be Wise, will be held in regional centres.

These meetings offer a great opportunity to learn about your rights and responsibilities in relation to child protection, and network with colleagues.

Two hours of PD can also be registered with the Institute.

An Early Career Principals Seminar will be held at the IEU’s Parramatta office on 19 May at 4.30pm.

I attended a similar successful meeting held last year where participants were given the opportunity to gain some valuable information from experienced principals.

Term 2 Branch Meetings are fast approaching. It’s your chance to have a say. These meetings are open to all members, not just chapter reps, so contact your organiser or rep, place it in your diary, and turn up. You will be warmly welcomed.

June council will be held on Saturday, 18 June.

Enjoy the term, look after yourself, keep warm and stay well.

Lismore Diocese IEU Principals' Breakfast at Yamba.


[ report from ] Central CoastCarlo Rendina IEU Organiser

overview

[ report from ] Penrith-Blue MountainsPatricia Murnane Branch President

Is your school clear on OHS?

Relief at last

Worthwhile excursion to the Woodport

OHS rights and obligations were at the centre of Penrith-Blue Mountains Branch discussion at its meeting on 16 February.

The issue of ‘Agile Learning Spaces’ in the Parramatta CEO Diocese engendered much discussion, with ergonomic concerns as well as problems associated with noise such as voice strain, headaches and stress being identified. Members’ reports in a recent IEU survey led the Union to raise concerns with the Parramatta CEO seeking to determine whether the OHS issues were being genuinely addressed in the context of schools’ OHS systems.

An IEU Organiser can advise members how to proceed with OHS concerns. Each school’s OHS consultative mechanism, be it a committee, reps or other arrangement should now be posted around your school. The name(s) of your contact person should be clearly stated. Please see your OHS representative with concerns that apply to either yourself or a colleague.

It is timely to remind primary teacher colleagues in Parramatta CEO schools that ‘release from face to face’ is now two hours per week. The first hour must be taken weekly in one 60 minute block. Teachers should be consulted on the method to ‘spend’ the other 60 minutes, such as banking it to take as full days of

release from class per term, or perhaps 30 minutes spent as release per term with the remaining 30 minutes being converted to teacher assistant time, or other agreed combination that suits the needs for the year.

At all times the decision about what professional activity is undertaken during RFF time is at the discretion of the teacher. It is not to be organised for them. Teachers can always dissent if someone else has an idea for the use of the RFF time.

The Penrith-Blue Mountains Branch office bearers for 2011 are: President, Patricia Murnane; Vice-President, Brian Edwards; Secretary, Deb Jorgensen. Committee Members are: Peter Hume, Tony Weber and Regina Bryan. The next meeting is Wednesday 11 May at Penrith Panthers Club.

“The issue of ‘Agile Learning Spaces’ in the

Parramatta CEO Diocese engendered much

discussion.”

The Central Coast Pedagogy in the Pub session on 17 March was well

attended at the Woodport Inn, East Gosford. The course dealt with the dos and don’ts of organising, running and participating in camps and excursions.

Participants not only found the content valuable but also enjoyed the networking, support and suggestions of other new scheme teachers.

The IEU is conducting seminars around the state for new scheme teacher members who must complete Institute-approved professional development. But it was also good to see a couple of experienced teachers in attendance. Keen to brush up on their own knowledge they were able to give sage words of

wisdom and encouragement to their less experienced colleagues.

Thanks to IEU Organiser Sandra White — the IEU’s representative on the Quality Teaching Council and Chair of the Union’s Educational Issues Committee — for preparing and presenting the seminar.

Sandra will be in attendance at the next branch meeting to discuss the role and future of professional teacher institutions in education and the Union’s response to these organisations.

The Central Coast Branch Executive and organisers (pictured) would like to extend an invitation to all members for the next branch meeting at 4.30pm on 26 May at the Gosford Golf Club.

[ report from ] Systemic SchoolsBernadette Baker Vice President

Already this year we can celebrate, as a Union, several achievements

that have come to fruition. The most significant for primary teachers in Catholic schools is the two hours of RFF — finally!

Following on from the work practices agreement signed in April 2009, the gradual implementation of RFF has been happening. However 2011 sees the full two-hour implementation of RFF for all primary teachers including part-time teachers as a pro rata allocation. As more experienced teachers will recall, RFF – relief from face to face teaching – was a dream on the horizon that we never really thought would eventuate. Slowly,

informally in many cases, RFF was made available to teachers, not becoming formal for a long time. It is really satisfying that finally after so many years of consistent campaigns this milestone has been reached. This is a significant improvement in the working conditions of primary teachers and should be celebrated. It is certainly a historic year.

Another significant achievement is the access to leave. This is now easier to access for teachers, for their families, the care of children, end of career changes and elder care.

More and more teachers are finding themselves in the situation where the

care of parents/elders is an important part of their lives. This is another reason to celebrate our achievements as a Union, continually improving our working conditions. “We are part of the first generation in human history that could spend time caring for our elderly parents that we did caring for our children.” (Summer, K. 2010: Caring for your elderly parent, p. xii)

22

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Newsmonth_May.indd 1 27/04/2011 11:36:37 AM

Keynote speakers:

Professor John Hattie, University of Auckland

Ms Carmel Crevola International Literacy Consultant (France)

Dr Annie Henry Resiliency Group(USA/NZ) & Professor Mike Milstein, University of New Mexico

Email: [email protected] Ph (03) 9534-2934

NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERIES 2010

Full program details and bookings online: https://www.radii.org/bookings

Learning to Strive & Survive in Challenging

Circumstances

Developing Resilient Students & Communities

Professor Mike Milstein, University of New Mexico

SYDNEY : Thur 9 June CONFERENCE

Learning to Strive & Survive in Challenging Circumstances

SYDNEY:Wed 8 June –Master ClassPowerful Strategies for Teaching Oral Language Skills

Ms Carmel Crevola, International Literacy Consultant (France)

SYDNEY:Wed 8 June – Workshop

Dr Annie Henry, The Resiliency Group (NZ),


Newsmonth is published eight times a year (two issues per term) by the NSW/ACT Independent Education Union.Editor: Dick Shearman (General Secretary) for and on behalf of the IEU Executive and members.Journalists: Suzanne Kowalski-Roth, Tara de Boehmler, Sue Osborne and Mary Colbert. Produced by: Wendy Rapee, Tara de Boehmler, Sue Osborne.

NEWSmonth

Contributions and letters from members are welcome. These do not reflect endorsement if printed, and may be edited for size and style at the Editor's discretion. They should be forwarded to: Newsmonth GPO Box 116 SYDNEY NSW 2001 The IEU office is located at: 176-182 Day Street, SydneyTelephone: (02) 9779 3200 Toll free: 1800 467 943 Facsimile: (02) 9261 8850 email: [email protected] On the net: www.ieu.asn.au

Advertising inquiries to Kayla Skorupan on 9779 3200. Such advertising is carried out to offset production costs to mem-bers and at commercial rates. It does not in any way reflect endorsement by the NSW/ACT IEU.

Absolutely Super: Bernard O’Connor

NGS Super

Do you have any lost super?

NSW/ACT IEU EXECUTIVEDick Shearman General Secretary

Gloria Taylor Deputy General Secretary

Carol Matthews Assistant Secretary

John Quessy Assistant Secretary

Chris Wilkinson President St Joseph’s Catholic College, East Gosford

Michelle Omeros Vice President Non-Systemic St Euphemia College, Bankstown

Bernadette Baker Vice President Systemic St Columbkille's Primary School,Corrimal

Carolyn Collins Vice President Support Staff St Michael's Primary School, Nowra

Gabrielle Connell Vice President ECS Albury Preschool Kindergarten

Francis Mahanay Vice President, ACT Holy Family School, Gowrie, ACT

Peter Moore Financial Officer De La Salle College, Cronulla

Marie MacTavish Financial Officer St Joseph’s Primary School, East Maitland

General Executive Members

John O’Neill Carroll College, Broulee

Ann Rogers ASPECT South Coast School, Corrimal

Pat Devery St Mary’s Cathedral College, Sydney

Marty Fitzpatrick St Francis Xavier’s Primary School, Ballina

Ralph Hunt The Armidale School, Armidale

Denise McHugh McCarthy Catholic College, Tamworth

Peter Mullins St Francis Xavier College, Florey

Patricia Murnane Emmaus Catholic College, Kemps Creek

Kevin Phillips Primary School St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton

Michael Hagan Mater Maria College, Warriewood

The Australian superannuation system is definitely a world leader

and the envy of many nations which are unable to put aside adequate retirement savings for their workforce. The fact that Australia has the fourth largest pool of retirement savings in the world for a relatively small population is a testimony to the nation’s pragmatic and egalitarian ethos.

However, areas of necessary reform remain and, thanks to the Cooper Review, the government is seeking to address several areas which are crying out for reform. A key area which is being considered is the problem of lost super. There are currently over six million lost or inactive superannuation accounts which account for in excess of $5 billion in lost savings.

It is quite easy to understand how these 'dead' accounts come into being. Job changes, part time work, casual employment and even change of name all contribute to the problem. It is standard practice among super funds to stop posting member information to addresses when two or more mail outs are returned to the fund. So the situation arises that the fund no longer knows where the member is and if the member changes jobs, he or she may forget about the account altogether. At present automatic consolidation of accounts does not take place.

The Cooper Review recommends automatic consolidation based on TFNs, date of birth and residential address. If this legislation is passed, accounts will automatically be consolidated and millions of ‘lost' accounts will be closed. This will most likely be done under the control of the Australian Tax Office.

In the interim, however, there are measures which can be taken to reunite you with your lost super. There is no need to pay a private service provider because the ATO offers this service with no charge. It is called “Super Seeker” and can trace your lost super in a matter of minutes. All you need to have available is your tax file number, family and given names and date of birth. Once you complete this information, Super Seeker will search for a match on the Lost Members Register, and if one is found, you are free to contact your

current super fund to consolidate the lost account. A direct phone contact can also be made on 13 28 65 for assistance in tracking lost super.

Other inactive accounts have been moved to ‘eligible rollover funds” (ERFs). A large ERF which is used by NGS Super and other superannuation providers is AUSfund which will help members find their accounts if requested. Your money may end up in AUSfund if your superannuation fund performs a 'sweep' or 'ERF' to remove small or inactive accounts from their books.

Once lost super is located, it can be consolidated into your fund of choice. A 'Transfer Authority Form' should be used to roll-over superannuation accounts. The form will ask for the details of the account such as the provider, account number and the approximate amount of the account along with a signature. Once this 'authority' is received, the fund will chase up the money and will advise the member when it is added to the account. To download a 'Transfer Authority Form' from NGS Super, go to the website (www.ngssuper.com.au) under the 'Super Members' section, then go to 'Forms and Publications' and download 'Rollover/Transfer Authority Form'.

It’s your money, so keep track of it!

Bernard O’Connor (NGS Super)

(Correction: the last “Absolutely Super” article indicated that a special offer for Income Protection and Death/TPD insurance increases would be provided to all members in April. In fact only Income Protection will be offered to members at this time. The special offer for increased Death/TPD insurance cover will be offered in the second half of 2011. My apologies for this timing error.)

(Important information: The information in this article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a financial decision, please assess the appropriateness of the information to your individual circumstances, read the Product Disclosure Statement for any product you may be thinking of acquiring and consider seeking independent advice from a licensed or appropriately qualified financial adviser.)


To enter one of these giveaways put your name, membership number and address on the back of a stamped envelope addressed to Newsmonth Giveaway 1, 2 or 3 – NSW/ACT IEU, GPO Box 116, Sydney 2001 by Friday 20 May. Envelopes should be clearly marked with the relevant giveaway.

GiveAways{

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Consolidate your other super into your NGS Super account, with the transfer making it into your NGS Super account before 31 July 2011, and you could win a holiday cruise for two to New Zealand to the value of $4,000, plus $500 spending money! There are also 10 $50 David Jones vouchers to be won!

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NGS13388_April_Newsmonth_0311.indd 1 30/03/11 9:17 AM

Giveaway 3The LifeMalcolm KnoxAllen & UnwinISBN: 9781742372990Three copies to giveawayThis novel follows the story of former world champion Australian surfer Dennis Keith “now bloated and paranoid and holed up in his mother’s retirement village and shuffling to the shop for a Pine-Lime splice daily….Years before he’d been robbed of the world title that had his name on it - and then drugs, his brother, and the disappearance and murder of his girlfriend had done the rest”. It’s billed as daring, ambitious and dazzling – a new work of fiction by an award winning journalist and keen surfer.

Giveaway 1Waltzing with Jack Dancer: A slow dance with CancerPoems by Geoff Goodfellow, story by Grace Goodfellow, images by Randy LarcombeWakefield press ISBN: 978 1 862549 593Five copies to giveawayPoet Geoff Goodfellow is well known to many teachers via his school seminars and for taking poetry into ‘hard territory’. He has been writer-in-residence at places including St Ignatius’ College at Lane Cove and ‘B’ Division at Yatala Gaol. Together with his moving and powerful teenage daughter Grace Goodfellow’s prose piece, ‘The C Word’, this collection of poems confront his journey as a cancer survivor. They are perfectly complemented by the photos, with humour and faith aplenty.

Giveaway 2Veg In: simple vegetarian dishes from around the worldFlip SheltonWakefield PressISBN: 978 1 86254 912 8Three copies to giveawayMaking quick, easy vegetarian dishes from around the world at home can be a challenge but this handy cookbook from Flip Shelton aims to help you save money and calories with recipes from India, China, Mexico, Japan, Greece, Malaysia and the Middle East. Recipes include fried bananas, magic mushrooms and carrot and daikon salad.

newsmonth : may, 2011 (vol.31 / no.3)

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