Last week, Notre Dame College participated in a comprehensive School Improvement Review conducted by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) using the School Improvement Tool.
Four reviewers spent the week onsite, engaging with approximately 80% of staff, meeting with students and parents, visiting classrooms and examining a broad range of College documentation and evidence.
The review identified significant growth since our previous review four years ago and provided strong affirmation of the work taking place across our community. In particular, reviewers described our community partnerships as outstanding, acknowledging the positive impact they have on student learning, wellbeing, engagement and post-school pathways.
Among the many commendations received were the strong collegiality and support amongst staff, our commitment to student wellbeing and pastoral care, positive relationships between students and staff, the breadth of curriculum and pathway opportunities, and the successful implementation of Classroom Mastery through Magnify Sandhurst.
Reviewers also highlighted the quality of our facilities, extensive co-curricular offerings, support for students with additional needs, and the ongoing formation of staff in Catholic identity and mission.
The commendations, affirmations and recommendations arising from the review will play a key role in shaping the development of our next Strategic Plan and guiding our future direction as a College. At the same time, we are undertaking planning and budgeting for 2027 alongside Catholic schools across Victoria.
Recent media coverage has highlighted the financial challenges facing the sector, including the impact of the upcoming Enterprise Bargaining Agreement, which will provide well-deserved salary increases for teachers and support staff. While we strongly support these improvements, Catholic schools must largely fund these costs through their own budgets, requiring careful long-term planning.
Our priorities remain clear: maintaining the quality of learning and wellbeing opportunities for every student while being mindful of the pressures facing families. This planning will continue throughout the coming months to ensure Notre Dame College remains strong, sustainable and well-positioned for the future.
Enjoy the week ahead,
Emma Reynoldson – Acting Principal.
