QCPCA

The recent announcement of the Year 7 move to high school marks an important change for Queensland schools. The release of the Flying Start green paper in February 2010 saw the launch of statewide consultation on various the proposals aimed at improving our schools.

We have seen some concerns from our members but generally the proposal has been well received. The government's approach is to trial the introduction with the switch being planned for 2015. A series of funding and support mechanisms will also ensure that extra support is given to parents in rural and remote areas.

QCPCA and P&C input during this consultation has been essential in reaching a measured outcome and we look forward to working with P&Cs, the government and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.

The Queensland government's budget announcements are good news for our schools. Many of the issues QCPCA has advocated for on behalf of P&Cs have been accounted. At the core of the state budget is the implementation of Flying Start initiatives. A record operational budget of almost $7.4 billion in 2011-12 sees funds made available to commence the transition of Year 7 to high school in 2015, along with a boost to maintenance funding, set at $134.8 million.

The QCPCA State Conference/AGM is also fast approaching. This year's event, to be held at Royal on the Park in Brisbane, will feature the key speech, Local Funds of Knowledge from Dr Marie Brennan, Professor of Education at the University of South Australia, and also includes a Civic Reception, hosted by the Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

After preliminary investigations and feedback from Regional Councils and P&Cs, QCPCA will be holding a Special Meeting on Friday 9 September (9.00 am to 12 noon), before the opening of conference. The meeting will determine the future organisational structure of QCPCA. State Life Members and affiliated P&Cs are entitled to one vote at this meeting. Every member will have received a copy of the proposed constitution and further explanation. For more information and registration forms please visit the QCPCA website.

Following the establishment of a Work Interchange Agreement in 2010 with the Department of Education, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Robyn Kelso as the new P&C Services Manager at QCPCA. The agreement has been vitally important in furthering our relationship with the Department and in providing essential support to P&Cs. Robyn will continue the great work carried out by Terri Hinkley over the last year which has seen the development and maintenance of training materials for P&Cs and the provision of advice on their implementation. I would like to thank Terri for her hard work over the last year and welcome Robyn to the team.

It is also timely for me to recognise and thank all P&C members, QCPCA Regional representatives, our State Executive and State Office staff for their hard work over the last year. As a result of your efforts we have seen many positive developments including the release of a new P&C Constitution, the redrafted Accounting Manual and the inaugural Queensland P&C Day, to name a few.

Kind regards,

Margaret Leary

QCPCA State President

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