Volume 49 No. 3

Vol 49 I No.3

Official publication of the Australian Education Union (SA Branch)

May 2017

AEUJOURNAL SA

MAY DAY 2017!

Members march for SECURE JOBS INSIDE: u GONSKI:

Turbull’s plan leaves schools billions short.

AEU Women’s Conference 2017 poster inside! u Preschools:

AEU campaign success!

FPRESIDENT’S E ATU R E S VIEW

AEU UNION JOURNAL TRAINING

MAY DAY 2017!

GONSKI pages 6 – 7 Turnbull’s plan abandons needsbased funding, leaving schools billions short.

Turbull’s plan leaves schools billions short.

AEU Journal is published seven times annually by the South Australian Branch of the Australian Education Union.

Deadline Dates

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June 28

#5 July 28

August 16

#6 September 1

September 20

Print Post approved PP 531629/0025

AEU Women’s Conference 2017 poster inside!

u GONSKI:

Australian Education Union | SA Branch 163 Greenhill Road, Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 8272 1399 Facsimile: 8373 1254 Email: journal@aeusa.asn.au Editor: Craig Greer

#7 October 20 November 8 Subscriptions: Free for AEU members. Nonmembers may subscribe for $33 per year.

Members march for SECURE JOBS INSIDE:

#2

ISSN 1440-2971 Cover Photos: Craig Greer & Kate Abrams Printing: Lane Print

u Preschools:

AEU campaign success!

May Day 2017!

Preschools

pages 10 – 11 AEU members and staff take the SECURE OUR JOBS campaign to the streets.

pages 8 – 9 AEU win on Universal Access funding.

Advertise in the AEU Journal. Reach over 13,500 members across South Australia.

8272 1399 journal@aeusa.asn.au

S SO FOCU S Jan Murphy

Katrina Hanlin

Debbie Shields

PART 2

AEU Vice President Jan Murphy and SSO Consultative Committee members set the record straight on SSO conditions.

Myth: SSOs are not eligible for the Week 10 Professional Development strategy.

Mythbuster: DEBBIE SHIELDS SSO, Banksia Park International High School “I’ve heard it said that SSOs aren’t eligible but in fact we are. Some SSOs

also say that there isn’t much PD that applies to them. However, I went via LearnLink to PLINK, which is the Department’s professional development portal, to see what training is available for SSOs and I found 34 courses to choose from. I was going to do a Certificate IV in Business Administration but instead decided that a Diploma of Leadership

and Management would be a better option. There are some cut-off dates depending on the course you want to do. I’m still doing that course, which takes a full year. Much of the training takes place in school holidays in your own time. Some of it is via Moodle and via webinar. All this training goes continued over page 3 3

MYTHBUSTERS CONT. toward the hours required to be eligible.

I made sure I had a certificate of attendance, filled in a form and my line manager signed it off. I had enough hours to give me leave in Week 10, Term 4.”

The Strategy allows for eligible SSOs to offset training and professional development activities undertaken outside of normal work hours against attendance in Week 10 of Term 4. SSOs, like teachers, are required to provide a declaration stating that they’ve undertaken the PD. Approval by your site leader or line manager of the PD that you intend to undertake outside of normal work hours is not required for a claim to be made as part of the strategy. Members can contact the AEU and ask for a copy of our Information Sheet with more details.

Myth: SSOs are not entitled to Special Leave.

Mythbuster: KATRINA HANLIN SSO, Port Augusta West PS “Our site encourages staff to care for both their own and their family’s wellbeing. The Special Leave entitlement has been a hard-fought for win by the Union, and is now more equitably distributed to part-time SSOs as a pro-rata entitlement rather than just three days per year.

I ensure that SSOs at my workplace are made aware that Special Leave exists and that they can utilise it. When having the conversation about completing leave forms, particularly where staff have family responsibilities and it is their children/partner who is sick, I

encourage them to access Special Leave first, rather than using up their own Sick Leave entitlement. The biggest problem is now that the entitlement is calculated pro-rata, I cannot answer the question ‘How much am I entitled to?’ I wish DECD would add this info to staff pay slips.”

All SSOs with the exception of casual SSOs (i.e. those in receipt of a 25 percent loading) are entitled to a maximum of the equivalent of 15 days Special Leave with pay each year (pro-rata for part-time employees).

NOTE: casual SSOs are only eligible for Special Leave in extraordinary circumstances at the discretion of the Chief Executive of DECD. n

SUB-BRANCH ACTION

Active members + active sub-branch = success!

AEU Organiser Lisa Sigalla reports on a successful AEU sub-branch action at Mitcham Girls High School.

7 from left: members of the sub-branch Matt Peters, Anne Carpenter and John Ziesing.

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or the past six months, three members from Mitcham Girls High School have been on an emotional rollercoaster. The school had identified their faculty for Required Placement, meaning someone had to be displaced. A complicating factor was that the school did not 4

have an up-to-date Human Resource Profile and the staff and union sub-branch had not been consulted on what the HR Profile should look like.

Two of the members were very happy to put their hand up and volunteer to be displaced and one wanted to stay.

The problem was that DECD HR told the school that nobody could volunteer and that all three must go into the PTR and wait to hear who would be displaced.

The recruitment & selection policy and procedures state that in order to minimise disruption to teachers, a required placement will only occur after due consideration of other options. It was the strong view of the AEU sub-branch that providing a volunteer who was happy to relocate was a legitimate “other option” that needed to be considered. DECD did not support their proposition. The custom and practice of DECD over many years shows that it has enabled teach-

“To be supported by your Union when feeling threatened is so reassuring.

I encourage all teachers to seek that support.”

Anne Carpenter, Teacher Mitcham Girls HS ers to volunteer and in this case there was more than one teacher willing to put their hand up.

Members at the school became active around what was seen as unjust, illogical and unreasonable, and attended the largest sub-branch meeting held in many years. A motion was passed supporting the individual members to volunteer for displacement and supporting the AEU in exhausting all available industrial avenues to resolve this required placement grievance.

A 3.1 grievance was lodged with DECD and they failed to meet their industrial obligation to respond within 48 hours.

The sub-branch was very disappointed with DECD’s response, once received; they felt that it was completely unsatisfactory and did not resolve the issue.

On the direction of the members to pursue further industrial options, the AEU lodged a grievance with the Industrial Relations Commission of South Aus-

continued over page 3

PRESIDENT’S VIEW

SA schools will be hard hit by Gonski cuts AEU President Howard Spreadbury writes … ted there is nothing that guarantees the states will make up the shortfall. Any move to adjust the Schooling Resource Standard after 2021 could also see further reductions in funding increases.

Walking away from needs-based funding There’s been plenty in the media recently regarding Malcolm Turnbull’s plan to deliver a new funding model for Australian schools. He now clearly understands that schools funding is a vital issue and has been awakened to the community expectation that funding is increased.

Unfortunately, an analysis of the detail shows that his plan fails to deliver schools the resources they need. It’s a case of policy on the run and a poor substitute for the current Gonski agreements which are already supporting students who need additional assistance and providing a path to lift all schools to a minimum resource standard.

Coming up short The extra money that’s being promised falls far short of the amount that would be delivered under the current agreements. In the case of South Australia, the amount of $335 million that forms the 2018/2019 allocation is reduced to approximately $70 million over the next four years. These figures include all schooling sectors, and public schools were due to receive approximately twothirds of these amounts. Under the current Gonski agreements 80% of extra funding is to go to public schools, which have the highest needs. Under Malcolm Turnbull’s new model, they would receive less than half of the extra funding.

The Federal Government’s plan will see many schools fall short of the minimum resource standard, which means they won’t be able to provide their students with all the support they need; the Federal Government will only provide 20% of the Schooling Resource Standard for public schools and 80% for private schools. The rest is left up to the states and territories to fund and Education Minister Simon Birmingham has admit-

Despite his spin, Malcolm Turnbull is effectively abandoning the most disadvantaged schools and their students. He is also moving away from the key principle of Gonski – that state and federal governments work together to make sure no child misses out at school.

Gonski funding is delivering results in our schools. We don’t need a new funding model or attempts by the Federal Government to walk away from needsbased funding. In order to ensure the current funding arrangements continue to be delivered, we need a strong position from our Senators, particularly the Greens and the Nick Xenophon Team, in opposing any legislation which enables the new model to supersede the current provision. Our students deserve better.

Preschool campaign success One piece of recent good news from the Federal Government is the announcement of a continuation of funding for preschools to provide 15 hours of Universal Access to a high quality early childhood program for all four year-old children in their year before school. The disappointing part of this announcement is that the funding only extends for a further year until the end of 2018. This means that the long-term uncertainty remains for preschool members and families and that the AEU campaign for ongoing funding must continue.

AEU win on school utilities funding Another piece of good news for public education is the announcement by State Education Minister Susan Close that school and preschool utilities costs will now be fully met by the State Government. Not only will this alleviate the need for sites to make up the shortfall between DECD allocations and the actual costs of water, gas and electricity, it means that bill payments will be managed centrally, elimi-

nating the administration of utilities at site level.

The AEU conducted a survey of members and parents as part of a campaign to lobby the Minister to return the payment of utilities to DECD. The information provided was compelling in that it demonstrated to the government that sites are spending many thousands of dollars annually which had to be found from within local budgets. This decision means that those resources can be returned to their best use – supporting teaching and learning programs.

Members and parents who participated in this campaign are to be congratulated for their efforts which will see increased resources for our students.

This is another example of how we can win when Union members and preschool and school communities take action to achieve the best outcomes for public n education in this state!

In unity, Howard Spreadbury

SUB-BRANCH ACTION CONT. tralia (SAIRC).

The three teachers from the technology faculty attended a voluntary conference in the SAIRC with officers from the AEU to put their case. They did a fantastic job explaining their individual perspectives to the Commissioner. Their contributions enabled the Commissioner to see the logic behind the sub-branch’s position.

After two hours of argument and counter argument, the outcome was in favour of the AEU and the three members. Volunteers will now be considered in their required placement process and the member who wishes to stay at the school will not be considered for displacement in this instance. The school will also develop an HR profile in consultation with the staff.

This is another great example of what can be achieved when AEU members feel injustices are occurring and their voice is not being heard. Members backed members, the sub-branch activated and the outcome they sought was achieved. Congratulations to all involved! n

SUB-BRANCH ACTION • If you have not seen the school HR profile, email the PAC to request a copy be provided to all staff at your workplace. n

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GON S K I

Turnbull’s funding plan leaves schools billions short AEU Federal President Correna Haythorpe says the Federal Government’s schools funding plan is far from needs-based.

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“It will hurt some of the most vulnerable students in Australia.”

Under his new funding model there is no guarantee that will happen, and that’s why it doesn’t represent true needs-based funding.

The six year Gonski agreements with the states, signed by the Federal Government and due to run from 2014 to 2019, put all schools on a path to reaching the SRS by the end of 2019 – the first step to ensuring all students had access to a properly-resourced school.

midst the hype about Malcolm Turnbull’s attempt to deliver a new schools funding model there’s one question he can’t answer. Will every child in Australia be able to attend a school that has enough resources to meet their needs?

Not only will he give our schools $22 billion less over 10 years than the signed Gonski agreements, he won’t ensure they are funded on the basis of need. Surely he can do this, if he believes that we can afford a $48 billion company tax cut.

The key to the Gonski Review was its recommendation that every school have enough resources to meet a minimum Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), based on the needs of its students.

Schools with high levels of disadvantage would have a higher SRS per stu6

dent to reflect their needs.

The simplest way for Malcolm Turnbull to ensure all students have the resources they need at school is to honour the Gonski agreements in full. But the Turnbull plan walks away from this, and from the key principle of the Gonski Review that schools funding should be a joint responsibility of states and federal governments.

Instead we get a system where the Federal Government will provide 20% of

the SRS to public schools and 80% to private schools. That is effectively enshrining the historic anomaly which sees the bulk of federal funding go to private schools, regardless of their need.

It will hurt some of the most vulnerable students in Australia.

For example, public schools in the NT will only get a 1.6% annual increase in federal funding, despite having some of the highest levels of need and worst results in Australia. Tasmania sees its public schools get lower increases than private schools, again despite higher need.

Minister Birmingham has said that he will make states and territories accountable for maintaining their own spending on schools. That’s great in theory but we have no idea how it will work in practice. The previous NT government cut its own funding to schools from 2014, with no action taken by the Federal Government. continued over page 3

B RA NCH S ECR E TA RY ’S R E PO RT

“The second Gonski Review won’t look at how much funding schools need.”

Buried in the fine print is a plan to adjust the SRS after 2021, something which could see a further reduction in funding increases. There has been a lot of attention on the plan to reduce funding for schools above the SRS. But given the tiny number of schools this affects, the money saved will not deliver anywhere near enough to match the full six years of Gonski.

The second Gonski Review won’t look at how much funding schools need, it will just examine the best way to invest in schools funding.

Reviewing what is being done in schools and finding out what works is a good idea. But I can guarantee it will find there is little that can be done without some kind of commitment of resources – whether it is to better professional development for teachers, more one-to-one support for students, extra programs for kids who are struggling with literacy and numeracy, or timely speech pathology for children who arrive at school with speech difficulties.

The AEU’s State of our Schools survey found a majority of principals considered their school under-resourced, and 84% believed it was the students who struggled the most that would miss out if Gonski funding wasn’t continued. Lifting results in schools, particularly those with high levels of disadvantage, is labour-intensive. It takes time, patience and resources.

David Gonski said recently that he knew of many schools that were achieving great things with their increased funding. I can vouch for that, having visited many schools where teachers can finally have their passion and commitment backed with the funds they need.

It is a positive sign that Malcolm Turnbull has recognised that the public wants him to invest in our schools. It’s a shame he has come up with a policy which does not deliver needs-based funding and leaves schools short of vital resources. He could easily have delivered the full six years of Gonski funding which is already lifting results in thousands of schools. n

Recognising and reinvesting in TAFE We celebrate the quality and excellence of our public TAFE system. AEU Branch Secretary Leah York writes.

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his year’s annual NATIONAL TAFE DAY is on 13 JUNE – see Ad on pg.

21. We celebrate the quality and excellence of our public TAFE system.

TAFE Divisional Council’s Campaign Committee is planning a number of activities to celebrate, including dynamic speakers, highlighting achievements, recording our success stories and applauding our members’ work. This year’s events will be held centrally in the vicinity of TAFE SA’s Adelaide City Campus, as well as in regions at local campuses and in communities. Like at last year’s successful event, students will speak about the positive change that TAFE has made in their lives, and politicians will recognise the contribution of TAFE to the community and the economy.

Sadly, we must also fight against the destruction of TAFE. Successive governments, both Federal and State, Coalition and Labor, are responsible for vocational education funding models and policies that have undermined the very essence and survival of our world class TAFE system. AEU Federal TAFE Secretary Pat Forward states, “For years our TAFE system has been attacked, with millions ripped out of Australia’s most trusted public training provider and siphoned into private colleges, many of which leave students without the skills they need to get work.”

In South Australia, the State Labor Government has effectively cut funding to TAFE, particularly over the last five years, and closed campuses, which has had significant impact on regional and

country areas.

So, as well as celebrating TAFE’s excellence, National TAFE Day will also mark the commencement of our campaign in the lead up to the March 2018 state election. We will be lobbying state government politicians and candidates in order to secure a commitment to the AEU’s 2017 Priorities, which include campaigning for security of TAFE funding in the immediate and long term to ensure the delivery of the majority of vocational educational and training through sustainable quality programs.

This quota must be a guaranteed percentage of government funding for VET at a level at least equivalent to all indexed pre-Skills for All amounts.

Federally, Malcolm Turnbull’s plan for the public TAFE system includes a $177 million cut to TAFE funding, which adds up to a 15 percent decline in funding over the last ten years. The AEU’s Stop TAFE Cuts campaign has been effective as evidenced in the Federal Opposition’s budget reply in which Labor has committed to ensuring at least two-thirds of the public money allocated to vocational education and training is guaranteed for funding public TAFEs. Labor will also reverse Malcolm Turnbull’s $600 million cuts to skills and training and invest in TAFE and apprenticeships by spending an additional $637.6 million on TAFE and vocational education. They will also invest in a new $100 million Building TAFE for the Future Fund, to re-establish TAFE facilities in regional communities, meet local industry needs and support teaching for the digital economy.

Our State Government must also make this commitment. South Australia needs a strong public TAFE system that delivers real and sustained benefits to students, industry and the broader community. We look forward to taking this message to our politicians and communities. n 7

PR E SCHOOL FU N DI NG

1 The delegation of AEU members from SA and Victoria with the 14,000+ postcards.

1 Delivery for Minister Birmingham.

AEU wins on preschool funding Early Childhood Organiser Emma Lowe says another year of Universal Access funding is great, but it needs to be permanent.

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he story is so familiar. It has been on repeat for the last few years, and here we are again. We are approaching the middle of the year and funding arrangements for 2018 have only just been confirmed, but for next year only. Beyond that we’ll once again re-enter the realm of uncertainty and political games. This ongoing uncertainty causes stress for parents and caregivers, creates administrative nightmares for sites, and for educators working in preschools it generates the anxiety associated with tenuous employment.

Since 2008, the Federal Government has provided funding for preschools across Australia to ensure every four year-old has access to 15 hours per week of preschool education, delivered by qualified educators. We know the importance of investing in early years education; it provides a head start on schooling – children start with a broader vocabulary, better learning habits,

“Access to education is a universal human right and should not be at the whim of political cycles and budgets.” greater independence, and are prepared for learning. In contrast, those children who miss out on preschool commence school significantly behind their peers. The evidence on this is clear. Ask any educator.

The South Australian State Government already funds 12 hours of preschool education per week, with the Federal Government funding the additional three hours. The split between state and federal government varies between each respective jurisdiction, for example, in Victoria the State Government funds 10 hours per week and the Federal Government funds the remaining five hours, or a third of the

Call Minister Birmingham’s office on 8354 1644 or : Minister@education.gov.au email:

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funding for preschool education.

If the Federal Government fails to deliver funding to preschools, children in South Australia will have reduced access to preschool education. Furthermore, we will also see job losses of approximately 20 percent across the sector. This is a sector that is primarily composed of female employees, many of whom are employed in a part-time capacity. These educators are passionate and committed to the provision of quality early childhood education. They deserve security of employment and at the moment this is purely aspirational.

Every year is spent waiting and wondering – will I have a job next year and if so, for how many hours? There is little chance of permanency when funding is delivered in these 12 month cycles.

This is an unreasonable and unfair method of employment which disadvantages not only individual staff, but also worksites trying to plan for the longterm and invest in professional development. continued over page 3

VICE PR E S I DE NT ’S R E PO RT Access to education is a universal human right and should not be at the whim of political cycles and budgets.

Every child deserves the best start possible and the Turnbull government’s refusal to commit to long-term funding for Universal Access to 15 hours preschool is unacceptable.

DECD data reveals more permanent jobs are possible AEU Vice President Jan Murphy reports.

Taking Action Last week the AEU took a delegation of members from South Australia and Victoria to Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham’s electorate office to deliver over 14,000 postcards, signed by families and educators. In addition, a petition with over 5,500 signatures from members of the community pleading with Minister Birmingham to end this perpetual uncertainty was also presented.

Our campaign success A few days after our action at Minister Birmingham’s office, he announced that UA will continue in 2018. The Federal Government clearly felt the pressure of our campaign. While the extension of the UA funding is for only 12 months, this pre-budget announcement has come much earlier in the year than in the past. Our postcards, petition, and phone calls are working.

Where to from here?

AEU members and supporters of early childhood education must continue to build the campaign and continue the fight – next year will be the 10 year anniversary of Universal Access funding. It’s time to lock it in.

What else can you do?

To keep the pressure on the Minister we suggest members find a few minutes to call or email Minister Birmingham and ask: 1. Does your government value preschool education?

2. Is early childhood an investment in Australia’s future?

3. Will your government commit to Universal Access to 15 hours of preschool funding on a permanent basis?

This is a crucial matter for our members working in preschools. If we win secure and ongoing funding, our children will get the start to education they need and many educators will finally be able to access permanent employment.

It’s a win/win! n

Again this year the AEU sought data from DECD around teacher recruitment and selection for positions in schools for 2017. This information informs policy review and the work of AEU consultative committees.

Sometimes the data confirms what we think is happening, at other times it dispels common myths and misunderstandings.

There were 865 ongoing teaching positions declared. Some were filled by placements such as PATs or teachers coming out of leadership, transfers or conversions to permanency, and 474 were advertised. Of the advertised positions, 50 were won by graduates and 295 by teachers already working in the school where the job was advertised.

374 employable teachers, those doing TRT or contract work, became permanent by winning an advertised position.

The average number of applications per ongoing position was 18 in the country and 73 in the metro area. And for advertised contract positions the averages were 11 in the country and 19 in the metro. Of the 3,500 contract vacancies declared by sites, 114 were filled through advertisement. 50 contract teachers were converted to permanency.

Ninety-seven Band A positions were advertised, 118 Deputy positions and 982 other Band B positions. There was little change in the average number of applications for these positions, which remain concerningly low.

There are legitimate reasons why some teacher vacancies are not permanent, but alarmingly, the data clearly shows that in a very large number of instances the vacancy reasons given when declaring contracts for teaching positions did not meet the definition of temporary vacancies in the policy. Over 1100 contract positions were declared due to resignation, retirement, end of

tenure or transfer. A further 1982 were described as defined curriculum change or enrolment variation. The AEU believes that many of these positions do not meet the definition of temporary, and potentially, hundreds more positions should have been declared as permanent jobs.

When there is an oversupply of teachers, and we believe that’s currently the case, there will be competition for jobs. For any one ongoing vacancy there could be a PAT, a teacher with a guarantee of placement from the country or coming out of leadership, someone granted a compassionate transfer (special placement), a required placement or someone returning from Work Cover, a teacher wanting to transfer for any one of many important personal or professional reasons, a contract teacher, a TRT, and a graduate who will all want that one position. Only one will be happy with the outcome and of course this situation creates great stress and conflicting views.

Good policy and fair and effective selection processes are really important, but what we really need are strong and effective sub-branches to ensure policy is followed, processes are fair and there are more permanent jobs declared.

Likewise, if you’re on the PAC, make sure you know about the vacancies at your site. They can only be temporary where permanent employment is unable to be offered. Sub-branches can recommend conversion to permanency for members on contract. Check out the information in the March AEU Journal on the AEU ‘SECURE OUR JOBS’ campaign and get permanency on your subn branch meeting agenda.

SECURE OUR JOBS 9

M AY DAY 2017

CAMPAIGNING FOR PERMANENCY!

SECURE OUR JOBS

in Preschools, Schools and TAFE

Photo: Craig Greer

One struggle, one fight, workers of the world unite!

AEU members and officers brought our SECURE OUR JOBS campaign to the attention of the public at this year’s May Day march writes AEU Organiser Matt Coffey.

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n Saturday May 6, AEU members were out in force for May Day to support our campaign to SECURE OUR JOBS and stand together to fight for permanency in public education. The vibe was electric as chants like ‘What’s disgusting? Union busting!’ and ‘What’s outrageous? Unfair wages!’ were heard across town. The AEU joined at least a thousand other union members in a movement-wide campaign about the simple concept of fairness.

In the nineteenth century, working conditions were pretty dire by today’s standards. It was not uncommon for

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“Casualisation and secure employment is an issue as significant to public education workers as it is in various other sectors across the community.” workers to have to endure 10–16 hour days in generally unsafe working conditions. Coupled with working six days a week with no sick or annual leave, this tragically meant that death and injury in

the workplace was almost routine.

This birthed the campaign to shorten the workday to 8 hours. It was a long and hard-fought struggle that spanned continents and decades. The efforts of working people were rewarded in Victoria on 1 May 1856 when stonemasons won the 8 hour workday with no reduction to their pay. This paved the way for workers in many other industries and countries to follow suit and was a key moment in the history behind the annual May Day celebration.

The union movement has come a continued over page 3

To find out how your sub-branch can support contract staff in being converted to permanent, go to

‘S ECU R E OU R JOBS’ long way since then. Every May Day rally, which for South Australians falls on the first Saturday in May, hundreds of union members stand together to celebrate the wins of the past whilst continuing to campaign for a better deal for working people. This year union members were standing up to fight against cuts to penalty rates, rampant wage-theft by many employers, and the increasing threat to job security.

Casualisation and secure employment is an issue as significant to public education workers as it is in various other sectors across the community.

As many members would be aware, in June 2011, in the Teacher Recruitment and Selection Policy (DECS), the Department put forward the clear goal that, within two years, the target of 85% permanency in public schools would be reached. Having failed to reach that outcome, the aim was then reestablished to achieve 87% permanency in schools by the end of 2014 (DECD Policy for the Recruitment and Selection of Teaching Staff in Schools 2013). Today, one quarter of the way through 2017, that figure shamefully sits at around 75%.

So, on the back of this, AEU members took the opportunity to stand up and say that 75% is simply not good enough – it is time to SECURE OUR JOBS and increase permanency in our public schools, preschools and TAFEs. We all know the benefits associated with permanency and its importance in regards to: • those workers who can now get a home loan or start a family • the students and staff members who have consistency in staffing and in relationships built within the classroom and school • those communities and families who rely so heavily on staff to ensure the best possible learning experiences for their kids.

May Day marked the first public action for AEU members in the SECURE OUR JOBS campaign for 2017, but it will not be the last. Permanency is vital and that is why we all need to stand up for it.

Will you join us next time as we continue to fight to increase permanency in n public education?

Sub-branch action leads to permanency conversion The AEU Journal speaks with Adrian Fitch from Seaford Rise Primary School about his recent conversion to permanency.

JOURNAL: Adrian, how long have you been on contract and where have you worked during that time?

ADRIAN: I’ve been on contracts for the last nine years. I started off as TRT and did that for about a year and a half before I landed my first contract for a term in a Reception class. I then had two years at Christies Beach Primary teaching my own class, but following the appointment of a new Principal, I wasn’t offered a contract the following year. Luckily, I was able to get a contract at Seaford Rise Primary where I remained on contracts for seven years, before been converted to permanency.

JOURNAL: What are the main challenges you faced while working successive contracts?

ADRIAN: Professionally the main challenge was continually being anxious about the future. The contract game can make teachers quite competitive. Often you feel if you don’t say “yes” to everything then perhaps you won’t be given a contract the following year, or if you are to question or challenge something you may also be at risk.

On a personal level, I faced lots of challenges, such as struggling to secure a home loan, and the ongoing stress of never knowing if I was going to have regular employment. Sometimes I only found out I had a contract one week prior to the commencement of the school year. This was a horrible feeling that I wouldn’t wish on anybody. Aged in my mid-thirties with my own family to support, I was constantly anxious about the future. There are so many contract teachers out there in the same boat.

JOURNAL: How did your conversion to permanency come about?

ADRIAN: I heard through a colleague about a teacher at another site who had been converted after long-term contract work and I called the AEU and asked for advice. I read through the policy regarding

conversions and felt that I met the criteria for conversion. I then approached the AEU Sub-branch Secretary at my site and together we drafted a letter to the PAC to consider my conversion. The PAC then contacted HR at DECD but was told that the policy only applied to Category 1 and 2 schools. I was upset with the response and pursued it further by contacting the AEU again, this time arranging a meeting with an Organiser who provided great advice on a couple of different paths we could go down. I then had someone take on my case and they asked the tenure review panel to meet and discuss my situation. Eventually DECD decided, based on my length of time at my current site, that I would be converted to permanent and that my position should have previously been described as ongoing.

JOURNAL: That’s a great result, how does it feel to now be permanent?

ADRIAN: It feels amazing. I have a completely new zest for life now and can finally start to plan a better, brighter future for myself and family. I feel calmer in the workplace and have few anxieties. I’m really happy. I feel I’m going to be a better, more passionate teacher and make much more of a difference in young people’s lives. It is much different than before, I feel stronger now and I’m not shy to voice my opinions when collaborative decisions are made in the workplace.

Adrian is just one of many contract teachers who could be converted to permanent with the support of their AEU subbranch and the PAC. Secure employment is a basic human right and as trade unionists it is up to all of us to show solidarity with those whose employment is precarious despite the clear possibility of a permanent job.

The AEU’s SECURE OUR JOBS campaign is working toward increasing the number of permanent positions in DECD and we’re doing this through sub-branch action at the local level. n

8: www.aeusa.asn.au >Issues>Secure Our Jobs

SECURE OUR JOBS 11

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7.00pm – 10.00pm

FRIDAY NIGHT, 23 JUNE

BE BOLD BE BRAVE

Film viewing + supper : EMBRACE One woman’s journey to inspire everyBODY.

SATURDAY, 24 JUNE 8.45am – 3.00pm

AEU WOMEN’S CONFERENCE 2017

Authorised by Leah York, AEU Branch Secretary, Australian Education Union | SA Branch, 163 Greenhill Road, Parkside SA 5063 © 2017

Carol Fine-Clementi

“We need to accept our ‘natural’ selves and be as strong as we are being us.”

... make it happen!

or email Tish Champion on: tchampion@aeusa.asn.au

Australian Education Union | SA Branch For further info or to register8: www.aeusa.asn.au>events&courses

13

N EW AE UEDUCATION LE G A L OF F WEEK ICE R PUBLIC

ECRU ITM E NT UPDATE: ENTERPRISE BARGAININGR2008

There’s a new face at the AEU! The AEU Journal speaks with Lauren Power about her new role as AEU Legal Officer.

JOURNAL: Lauren you’ve come to the AEU with previous experience in the union movement, can you tell readers a little about your background?

LAUREN: I joined a union whilst working in casual employment during my high school and university years. The crucial role of unions and their history in regard to the current workplace environment was demonstrated. My interest in and commitment to the principles of unionism developed from a practical perspective as a volunteer in the final year of my law studies at the “Young Workers’ Legal Service” (YWLS), established by SA Unions. This is a terrific service which has significantly developed over the years for the betterment of both the volunteers and the youthclients who use the service. I then spent some time working in criminal law before I commenced employment in 2009 with the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Federation (SA Branch) as a Legal Industrial Officer and stayed in that role until the end of 2016. In my role at the ANMF I gained invaluable experience in representing the legal and industrial interests of members within the union context.

JOURNAL: Why did you apply for the Legal Officer position at the AEU and what do you think you can bring to the role?

LAUREN: I applied for the Legal Officer position at the AEU as it was an amazing opportunity for me to apply my prior legal, industrial and union experience in an exciting and valuable role to protect and advocate for the fundamental legal interests of AEU members.

JOURNAL: You’ve had some time to settle into the role now, are there similarities with your previous job at the ANMF? LAUREN: There are certainly similarities 14

regarding the management and conduct in Departmental investigations into misconduct. SA Health followed a similar process of investigation in these types of matters for Nursing employees in the public sector. Likewise, both Teachers and Nurses/Midwives are professionally accountable and responsible, both in regard to their professional responsibilities arising from their registrations and also as employees of the SA public sector via the Code of Ethics, which is relied upon in investigation matters.

The responsibilities for both professions in the current era continue to increase in response to issues that arise within the wider community context.

JOURNAL: Teachers and people working with children can sometimes find themselves needing legal support, what tips on protecting oneself can you provide our members, especially those who are new to the profession?

LAUREN: Staff working in the education profession must understand their professional/registration requirements and understand the importance of the Code of Ethics for SA public sector employees. Awareness of their professional/ legal responsibilities in working with children will assist them in making informed decisions and practising in a sound and professional manner. Additionally, in following procedure and processes this will assist our members if a complaint and/or issue arises to better protect them in demonstrating that they acted as required in the circumstances.

JOURNAL: What should members do if they find themselves subject to an allegation or disciplinary proceedings as a result of a potentially unlawful incident?

LAUREN: Members should not attend any meetings or provide any responses to allegations without AEU support in the first instance. It is always important to remember that to ensure fair process for members they have the right to AEU legal advice in regard to the matter at hand. n

Aim for high membership density AEU Organiser Daniel Pereira says members are in the best position to recruit new members to the Union.

AEU

officers have organised and carried out several very successful recruitment drives over the last few years, each time adding many new members to our ranks. However, it is important to note that recruitment is the business of everyone in our union.

AEU sub-branch secretaries and branch members are in a prime position when it comes to recruiting new members in worksites. The established relationships you have at your worksite make the recruitment conversation comfortable and it is widely acknowledged that the personal approach works best. You know the layout of your workplace, and can encourage other active members across the site to have recruitment conversations with potential members.

Discussions about the AEU, who we are and what we do, are vital to maximising recruiting opportunities in worksites. If a potential member is aware there is an active sub-branch that will provide relevant up-to-date information about current issues, it may encourage them to join the union.

Recruitment is the first step to knowledge, empowerment and the opportunity to be part of a union that promotes a strong, vibrant and equitable public education system. An important fact to emphasise is that the more members we have, the stronger we are, and with increased power we can campaign fiercely for improved wages and conditions for all public education continued over page 3

VICE PR E S I DE NT ’S R E PO RT workers.

The following are some recruitment tips for sub-branch secretaries and workplace organising teams: • Take a look at your membership list.

How many members do you have in your sub-branch? Have you advised AEU membership of any changes?

• Analyse the data to identify whether there are people at your preschool, school or TAFE who you can have a conversation with about joining the AEU • When a new person arrives at your site, introduce yourself and welcome them to the sub-branch if already a member or invite then to come along to a meeting to see what the AEU is all about • Make sure you have the current 2017 membership packs and information about the AEU for potential members • Have an active and visible presence in your worksite. Is your AEU noticeboard up-to-date and in a prominent location?

• Pin up a copy of the 2016 Enterprise Agreement and PAC Handbook on the AEU noticeboard and make sure members know how to access the Information Unit: 8272 1399 if they have a query • When a new member joins, welcome them to the sub-branch and make sure they are on your distribution lists and invited to attend meetings • If you have student teachers on placement provide them with information about student membership • Make sure you have the 2017 AEU SA Planner on your noticeboard and draw people’s attention to the training opportunities on offer. There are courses and events throughout the entire year!

• Let staff know about the AEU website at www.aeusa.asn.au and suggest they ‘Like’ us on FACEBOOK: facebook.com/aeusa and ‘Follow’ us on TWITTER: @aeusa.

In 2017, make recruitment a top priority! For support and assistance invite an AEU officer out to discuss recruitment and current campaigns.

Let’s get organised and ensure that we are strong and ready for action for the Enterprise Bargaining process in 2018. n

Respect our profession, respect us AEU Vice President Dash Taylor Johnson writes ...

“I work in the teaching profession.” But what does this mean?

As a preschool, early years, primary, secondary or TAFE educator, just how professional are you? The almighty internet identifies many sites all who regurgitate similar understandings of what it means to be a professional, and MindTools.com is a typical example. Apparently, six core components reflect your level of professionalism: specialised knowledge, competence, honesty and integrity, accountability, self-regulation and ‘looking the part’. This seems pretty straightforward, so why is it okay to challenge our professional status?

Challenge itself isn’t the issue and in fact, with the appropriate levels of respect and support, challenge is a critical component of growth, personally and professionally. Let’s face it, public educators are challenged as a matter of course when it comes to societal perception. For quite a while now educators and their practice have been the focus of much media commentary; now is the time to refocus this lens on the professionals we are.

And that’s where respect comes in, respect for who we are, what we do, the sacrifices we make and the outcomes we achieve regardless of the many encumbrances we carry with us. At April Branch Council a question regarding assessment plans submitted to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) Board was asked: What if it changes? Who is accountable? With the modernisation of SACE upon us, this professional respect extends further and the SACE Board’s answer is clear: “The primary responsibility for school assessment and its integrity resides with schools. As professionals, teachers are best placed to record final results and select the student work for moderation.” Professionals, for all students!

As professionals you also have a voice that can be heard; as your representative this is my core business. The AEU-SACE Board Collaborative Working

Group meets once a term to discuss educational practices from an industrial viewpoint. Neil McGoran, Chief Executive of the SACE Board of SA, joins AEU Organiser Ann Clarke, Aberfoyle Park High School’s sub-branch member Oksana Kaczmarsky, and myself in a range of professional conversations.

These might involve discussions around changes to course expectations, access for students with particular learning needs or logistical challenges that come with the shift to more online assessments. 2019 will see the first exam conducted in this manner. It is no coincidence that Professional Learning and Networks Manager, Hassan Mekawy, and Jan Raymond, Executive Manager Curriculum and Assessment, are key inclusions at the table.

Professional trust underpins the changes coming our way. In 2017 we have 11 subjects submitting school or external assessment items only online.

For moderation of school assessment, senior secondary teachers will be given the professional respect to submit all A+s plus one from each grade band regardless of number of enrolments.

A ‘C’ is a ‘C’ is a ‘C’, and with online benchmarking and online clarifying through PLATO, the Professional Learning and Teaching Online forum, why shouldn’t they be? The public sector code of ethics makes expectations of professional conduct very clear.

The Macquarie Dictionary defines a professional as someone belonging to one of the learned or skilled professions, professions being vocations requiring knowledge of some department of learning or science; we have it in spades.

A simple Google search of the teaching profession reveals over 85 million results with our own Australian Institute of Teachers and School Leaders (AITSL) site number three in the list. This is a human profession, striving for the best tomorrow there can be – a profession full of individuals who together are setting high standards. Education is a valued profession, enjoy being part of it!

TOGETHER WE ARE STRONG. n 15

OB ITUA RY

S UPE R SA

Vale Marion Betty McCarthy OAM

The Federal Budget and your super

South Australia has lost a tireless volunteer in the Public Education sphere. It is with sadness that we note Marion McCarthy (nee Sizer), who provided many years of voluntary service to public education and the community, passed away earlier this year in Adelaide, succumbing to breast cancer.

Born in 1933 in the mid-north town of Wirrabara, Marion was a quiet achiever, who had a deep desire to make a difference to her community and the public education sphere.

Her considerable contribution over many years as a volunteer providing services to education was acknowledged when she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 1997. In 2016, she received a certificate of recognition from the Premier in appreciation of her efforts.

In recent years, Marion was delighted to contribute to the Schools Merit List committee for the Order of Australia.

Prior to that she volunteered her time and energies towards State Government Education Department activities that required input from a parent’s perspective.

As parents’ representative, she was involved in the School Principals Selection Committee, the Senior Secondary Assessment Board of SA, the Health Curriculum Development Committee and the SA Association of School Parent Clubs (SAASPC), where she was Editor of the Parents Say magazine for 40 years.

As a statewide organisation representing parents on various groups, SAASPC continues to seek volunteers who wish to provide a parent perspective on many topics, by talking with parents, visiting schools, and providing information sessions. continued on page 18 3 16

Super SA provides AEU members with information about changes that will potentially impact Super SA’s schemes and products.

Please note that the announcements in the Federal Budget are proposals only and will not be final until legislation is passed.

First Home Super Saver Scheme Super SA schemes/products affected: Super SA Select and SA Ambulance Super Scheme.

In a move aimed at helping first home buyers build a housing deposit, the Federal Government proposes to allow voluntary contributions to super funds to be withdrawn for the purposes of buying a first home. Contributions into a super fund will be allowed by salary sacrifice up to a maximum of $15,000 per year, or a maximum of $30,000 in total. Where there is a couple involved, both individuals will be able to utilise their caps.

Withdrawals will be allowed from 1 July 2018 onwards, with a concessional tax applying to withdrawals (along with a deemed earning rate that the Australian Tax Office applies). This concessional tax will be at a rate of marginal tax rates less a 30 per cent offset, effectively making withdrawals tax-free for anyone earning up to $87,000. According to Federal Government estimates, the scheme will see a couple accumulating an extra $12,484 on combined savings of $60,000 over three years than if they had saved in a standard bank deposit account.

Effective: 1 JULY 2017 A fact sheet on this budget measure is available on the Super SA website.

Contributing the proceeds of downsizing into superannuation Super SA schemes/products affected: Super SA Flexible Rollover Product Retirees aged 65 and over who downsize their homes will be able to contribute up to $300,000 of the pro-

ceeds into superannuation as a nonconcessional (post-tax) contribution.

This will be allowed in addition to existing super rules and caps including the total super balance cap of $1.6 million.

The measure is exempt from the work test, however, it will not be exempt from the $1.6 million transfer balance cap (which limits the amount of money you can put into a pension phase account where the earnings are tax free).

Effective: 1 JULY 2018 See Fact Sheet 1.5 at www.budget.gov. au/2017-18/content/glossies/factsheets.htm

Reinstatement of pensioner concession card Earlier this year, some pensioners affected by the changes to the age pension assets test taper rate lost their Pensioner Concession Cards. Changes announced in this budget reinstate pension cards for those affected.

Effective: IMMEDIATELY

New Financial Complaints Authority for consumers The Government is proposing onestop External Dispute Resolution (EDR) scheme to replace the Financial Services Ombudsman, the Credit and Investments Ombudsman and the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal. Importantly, the Government has stated that the existing statutory protections applying to superannuation disputes will still continue.

Effective: 1 JULY 2017 These recent Federal Budget announcements are in addition to the Budget changes legislated previously for introduction as at 1 July 2017. n *This article was prepared for the use of member funds of Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees.

RU NMNEIN’S WO NG HFOCU E AD S

8: tchampion@aeusa.asn.au

Domestic Violence – a clear message from Queensland AEU Women’s Officer Tish Champion says standing up to domestic violence is everyone’s responsibility.

N

ovember 25 each year is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, also known as White Ribbon Day. On this day men are encouraged to take the oath that they will actively contribute to the elimination of violence against women.

“I will stand up, speak out and act to prevent men’s violence against women.

This is my Oath.”

Queensland seems to be leading the way when it comes to DV prevention. In Queensland, the month of May heralds ‘Domestic Violence Prevention Month’, where events are held to raise community awareness of the devastation caused by domestic and family violence. Unacceptable levels of domestic and family violence are having a dramatic impact on so many facets of our community and the lives of too many individuals. Big tick to the Queensland

“…in Australia at least one woman a week is killed by a partner or former partner.” government and community for publicly standing up against this totally unacceptable social issue, but where is the rest of Australia? Why isn’t this a national event?

Let’s face it, for many of us May is a perfect month to go hiking, entertain with backyard barbecues and soak up the last sunshine before the cold winter months set in. But for some, it is just another bad month in a bad year. It might be the month that they finally build up the courage to leave. It might be the month that they end up in hospital. It might be the month that they die.

According to the Australian Institute of Criminology (2015), on average, in Australia at least one woman a week is killed by a partner or former partner.

While not solely a women’s problem, in 2013 the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirmed in a personal safety report

that women are at least three times more likely than men to experience violence from an intimate partner.

Domestic and family violence has driven many Australian women into homelessness and is often recorded as a contributing factor in child protection notifications received by authorities. Police data gathered from all states and territories shows that domestic and family violence results in a police call-out on average once every two minutes across the country.

Australia is clearly paying a very high price for unacceptable and unprecedented levels of family and domestic violence.

In 2015, Price Waterhouse Coopers produced a report titled, A high price to pay: the economic case for preventing violence against women, in which they outlined the combined health, administration and social welfare cost of violence against women as being approximately $21.7 billion a year.

Based on statistics, at some point in our lives we will work with or know someone within the education community who has or is experiencing violence in their home – a colleague, a parent, a student. This is every Australian’s problem.

We all need to: • Raise community awareness of domestic and family violence and its impacts on individuals and communities • Promote a clear message of no tolerance of domestic and family violence in our communities • Ensure those who are experiencing domestic and family violence know how to access help and support • Encourage those who abuse and/or use violence against a partner to take responsibility for their abusive behaviour and seek support to change.

What to do If you or someone you work with is experiencing domestic or family violence, DECD has committed to supporting you with specific arrangements and entitlements through Clause 4.9 Domestic/Relationship Violence in the 2016 Enterprise Agreement. DECD has also nominated a designated officer, continued over page 3 17

WOMEN’S FOCUS CONT. Nicole Cummins, as the contact person for any employee experiencing domestic or relationship violence. She can be contacted on 8226 0594. There is also a “Supporting staff experiencing domestic violence” page on the DECD intranet with further information and links.

Federal Budget on DV In the Federal Budget, the Turnbull government committed to a comprehensive review of the family law system, and announced some key measures to

Stop Press Federal Budget 2017

W

hile I don’t usually get too excited about budget announcements (because there is usually so very little to get excited about) I happened to be in Canberra on budget day and there was something I was very keen to see.

Proposed changes to the Paid Parental Leave Scheme (PPL) introduced by Labor in 2011 have been abandoned and the scheme will remain unchanged under the new budget. The Coalition wanted to change the scheme so that

...continued from page 16 3

Vale Marion Betty McCarthy OAM In her early years, Marion attended Wirrabara Primary School and Gladstone High School, where she won a scholarship to complete Leaving Honours at Adelaide High School. On graduating, she attended the University of Adelaide, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree. It was at Adelaide University that she met another Science graduate, her future husband, Ian McCarthy, whom she married in 1954, a marriage that was to last over 62 years.

For the first few years of married life, Marion fulfilled her desire to work as a teacher, initially as Science Teacher at 18

address safety issues. Including: • a commitment to legislation that will prevent victims from being directly cross-examined by their abusers in the family court • specialist units in the family court to make earlier intervention possible in cases that involve family violence • better resources for some community legal services to increase support for groups most at risk of experiencing DV. n government employees would be ineligible to receive the 18 weeks of PPL at the basic minimum wage. You may remember this as the “Stop rorting and double dipping” announcement.

This means, a woman working for DECD will continue to be eligible for both the employer-funded paid maternity leave scheme of either 16 or 20 weeks (depending on length of service) and the federal PPL scheme of 18 weeks at the basic minimum wage.

This is a huge win for the union movement who have been campaigning against these changes for the past 12 to 18 months.

Next battle – improvements to the PPL, in particular, the inclusion of superannuation contributions. n

the Presbyterian Ladies College (now Seymour College), and later at St Peters Girls College. Although her teaching career had ended once family life had begun, Marion continued her involvement within the education sphere.

Right from the start of her children’s schooling, she became actively involved, serving on school councils and welfare clubs. Her daughters recall that, at her first kindergarten parent meeting, she took on the role of President, a position she held until all four daughters graduated through their schooling at the then-called Mitcham Infant School, Mitcham Primary, and Unley High schools. As an office bearer for the schools’ parents’ committees, she was granted life membership for her unwavering commitment and service.

Marion’s commitment and countless hours of efforts towards improving public schools was much appreciated and she was warmly regarded by those

*Pull out the poster in the middle of this Journal and display at your worksite.

AEU Women’s Conference 2017 is now open!

Places do fill fast so don’t delay – register today!

T

his year’s conference is about being bold and brave to achieve goals and make things happen.

Standing up against adversity, challenges and barriers and pushing through to make things happen or change.

Cost: Cost for the conference is $25 which includes the conference t-shirt.

For further information: • visit the AEU website:

8: www.aeusa.asn.au >events & courses or

• Contact the AEU Women’s Officer, Tish Champion on: 8272 1399

who had the opportunity to work alongside her.

SAASPC President Jernice Zerna said, “Marion will be remembered for being a quiet, gracious person who could be relied upon to do whatever was needed to ensure that the state parent association volunteer tasks were completed.

Her unassuming and thoughtful input into discussions was highly valued by those who were privileged to meet her and work with her as a fellow volunteer team member.”

Marion had a presence for many years at the AEU building on Greenhill Road where the SAASPC office is based and AEU staff were saddened to hear of her passing. Marion’s contribution to public education was significant and will always be remembered.

She is survived by husband, Ian, four daughters, six grandchildren and one great grandson. n

U N ION TRAI N I NG A N D PROF E S S ION A L DEVE LOPM E NT PRO G RA M 2017

Classroom Management for New Educators

Union Training

[PORT AUGUSTA]

FOR MEMBERS ONLY

FOR SUB-BRANCH SECRETARIES AND UNION REPRESENTATIVES Country Workplace Reps Course DAY 1: Thurs 1 June 9:15am – 3:30pm DAY 2: Fri 2 June

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Term 2 Week 5] [Term 2 Week 5]

A two day course on building the sub-branch and resolving workplace issues. Working to develop a positive workplace culture.

Participants are expected to attend both days. Highly recommend two members attend per site (who have not previously attended this training) with questions from the sub-branch.

OPEN TO: All AEU school reps who have not attended AEU 2-day union education courses. Strongly recommended for newly elected workplace reps/SBS.

DAY 1: Mon 10 July

9:30am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

DAY 2: Tues 3 Oct

9:30am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

DAY 1: Tues 11 July

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

DAY 2: Tues 3 Oct

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

[CITY]

Highly recommended by new teachers, this 2-day practical course builds on the workshop run at the AEU New Educators’ Conference. Participants must attend for the two days. The course is facilitated by experienced teachers, and is recommended as an extremely practical way to develop new teachers’ skills in the classroom.

OPEN TO: AEU full financial members who are in their first 3 years of teaching.

SUPPORT: Relief, travel & accommodation.

Student Engagement Workshop

FOR ALL WOMEN MEMBERS

DAY 1: Wed 12 July

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

DAY 2: Wed 4 Oct

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

AEU Women’s Conference “Be Bold Be Brave” Fri 23 June 7:00pm – 10:00pm

[Term 2 Week 8]

Pull out poster from the centre and display in your worksite.

FOR SSOs AND NON-TEACHING STAFF AEU SSO Conference “Our Time” Fri 21 July

9:15am – 3:30pm

[Holidays]

A one-day conference with dinner the night before for nonteaching staff. This day will include topics as selected by the SSO Consultative Committee, including an update on reclassification information.

OPEN TO: AEU financial members in non-teaching positions.

SUPPORT: Travel & accommodation.

OPEN TO: AEU full financial members.

Safe Schools Workshop Mon 17 July

9:30am – 2:30pm

[BAROSSA]

Wed 19 July

5:00pm – 7:00pm

[Term 2 Week 9]

This forum provides graduating teachers the chance to meet and chat with principals about job opportunities, what to expect in early childhood, primary and secondary schools and where job vacancies may be. Drinks and nibbles will be provided.

[for student members]

Wed 5 July

11:00am - 1:00pm

[Term 2 Week 10]

Wed 5 July

4:30pm - 6:30pm

[Term 2 Week 10]

Thurs 20 July

10:00am - 12:00pm

Application Writing for Teaching Positions

[Holidays]

A 2-hour practical workshop to assist in applying for DECD teaching positions. This workshop will provide information regarding the writing of your personal statement for teacher positions.

OPEN TO: AEU full financial members.

10:00am – 4:00pm

[Holidays]

What environmental action do we use, want and need?

EDCamp is an unconference! Edcamp uses the knowledge and passion of participants to call the shots about what you want on the day. The program is developed using the passion and knowledge of participants. There are no long PowerPoints, no lectures – just conversations and shared passion. You don’t even need to stay in the session if it turns out it wasn’t what you expected! You just need yourself and you thirst for knowledge about environmental action. If you are participating in environmental action in your community, with your students or you have some ideas (or want some ideas) this is for you!

OPEN TO: AEU full financial members.

Application Writing for SSOs Thurs 20 July

1:00pm - 3:30pm

[Holidays]

A half day practical workshop to assist SSOs applying for DECD positions. This session will include types of applications, writing to criteria, interview ideas and using examples, plus referee info.

OPEN TO: AEU financial members in non-teaching positions.

8

For further info on any events and courses, email Saniya Sidhwani on : training@aeusa.asn.au To register go to : www.aeusa.asn.au>events & courses

8

[Holidays]

This practical workshop is organised by the AEU SA and members of the AEUSA Branch Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) Consultative Committee to support schools as safe places free from homophobic bullying and harassment.

Environment Action EdCamp! [BRIDGEWATER]

Meet the Principals forum [for student members]

Application Writing

More students! More engagement! More of the time! Participants must attend for the two days. This course is facilitated by experienced teachers who will develop teachers’ skills in creating ‘rigorous learning conditions’ (TfEL) which support active participation and increase student engagement and accountability for their own learning using strategies including cooperative learning.

OPEN TO: AEU full financial members.

Professional Development Wed 28 June

[CITY]

19

R ECL A S S I F IC AT ION FO R S SOs

SACE

AEU achieving SSO reclass success

Quality assessment practices linked to student outcomes

Due in part to a change which puts timelines around the reclassification process, the AEU has had success in achieving reclassification for a number of SSOs in recent weeks.

Julie Modra, Business Manager at Murray Bridge South Primary speaks about how the AEU assisted her in finally having her reclass approved.

“After 18 months of applications and appeals and rejections, I was extremely happy to receive the good news that my reclassification from SSO2 to SSO3 had been approved.

I have been Finance Officer at Murray Bridge South Primary School for 16 years and have had ever-increasing responsibilities over the years, but was always disillusioned by the fact that I, along with many others, was not recognised for the level of responsibility I had in the school.

My first application was in October 2015 and after appealing the decision on advice from the AEU, it was still rejected. As I had to wait another 12 months to re-apply, I once again applied in October 2016. With a change in leadership in January 2016, I was given many extra responsibilities, including Facilities Manager and some line management, in effect doing the job of a Business Manager. Despite this, my second application was still rejected. I felt strongly enough to fight for what I thought was fair, so I appealed this decision.

I feel that follow-up from the AEU in March helped accelerate the internal review, as I had not received a decision by mid-March 2017. I am very thankful for the input from the AEU staff and my Principal, which contributed to this good result.”

Get reclass support!

Are you an SSO who has applied for a reclassification and been unsuccessful?

Or maybe you think your role should be reclassified but you’re not sure how to go about it. In either case, if you would like advice and/or support around reclassification, please call the AEU Information Unit on 8272 1399. n 20

Chief Executive of the SACE Board Dr Neil McGoran, writes …

A

s teachers, students, and parents try to make sense of what “career readiness” means in the 21st century, there is one thing for certain: the role of assessment in education is now more important than ever.

Teachers and school leaders have a greater range of formats for effective assessment of skills and knowledge. Digital learning tools and assessment activities enable teachers to provide rapid and informative feedback that encourages students to self-regulate and monitor the progress of their learning.

Researchers have not only identified a strong connection between quality assessment practices and student outcomes, they argue that the more familiar measures of career (or tertiary study) readiness, such as grades and test scores, do little to predict how an individual will fare in their lives after secondary school.

While a command of mathematics and literacy skills certainly matters, so too does the ability to analyse, problem solve, collaborate, and persevere in the face of challenges. As a result, across the country, efforts are underway to create fit-for-purpose assessments that better prepare the modern learner for jobs of the future.

Established in 2015, the Institute of Educational Assessors (IEA) aims to translate these national and international research findings into professional learning that is practical and accessible to a broad range of educators.

Whether a school wants to pursue a whole-school commitment to evaluating and improving existing assessment practices (through the Assessment for Educators) or they wish to strengthen their individual expertise in assessment knowledge and practice (through the Certified Educational Assessors) the IEA courses can assist schools in navigating new directions

in educational assessment.

Even more importantly, the syllabus is adaptable and collaboratively created by teachers as their needs emerge, with workshops incorporating customised, practical examples of learning and assessment.

The IEA accredited courses are recognised towards post-graduate studies and the Australian Professional Standards for teachers, while also meeting the requirements of the teachers’ registrations boards for professional learning hours.

On 9 June 2017, the IEA will hold its annual conference at Education Development Centre (EDC) in Hindmarsh. The conference provides a valuable opportunity for educators of all experience levels and from across all sectors to come together to strengthen their expertise in assessment.

This year’s conference will feature Emeritus Professor Gordon Stobart, University College London. Professor Stobart, a founding member of the Assessment Reform Group and leading researcher in the field of educational assessment will provide his insights into the disruption of 21st Century learning and the influence that general capabilities are having on global education systems.

The conference will also offer a range of sessions highlighting assessment practices, and sharing case studies of graduates of the Certified Educational Assessors course.

The IEA will also host an Assessment Masterclass with Professor Stobart on the evening of 7 June 2017. This event will provide principals and school leaders with a broad history of global assessment reform, as well as local and international policy rhetoric, which calls for a new kind of learning to face the challenges of the 21st century. n

To register for the Conference, or for tickets please visit:

8: www.sace.sa.edu.au/web/iea/events

AEU ELECTION NOTICE

Australian Education Union | SA Branch

ELECTION NOTICE

Nominations are called to fill the following positions on AEU Committees.

Legal Defence Appeals Committee The Legal Defence Appeals Committee determines appeals arising from the Union’s Legal Defence Rules.

Three vacancies for a term of office ending March 2018. Nominees must be 2017 Branch Council Delegates who are not members of Branch Executive.

Administrative Officer Review Committees Administrative Officer Review Committees consider applications for Administrative Officer vacancies and recommend preferred candidates for appointment.

Vacancies remain for one female and one male for a term of office ending March 2018.

Nominees must be 2017 Branch Council Delegates.

STANDING COMMITTEES: Finance: The Committee is chaired by the Treasurer and prepares the AEU budget and reviews expenditure on a quarterly basis.

Two female positions for one year ending December 2017.

One female and one male position for two years ending December 2018.

CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEES: Consultative Committees provide advice to Branch Executive on matters affecting their membership sector. All positions are for a one year term of office ending December 2017.

Contract and TRT – Five vacancies.

Unemployed, Contract and TRT members.

NOT ICE BOA R D

Rest Reflect Restore Retreat Are you living life on the run?

Do you often crave for some time to yourself, free from the stress of being responsible for everyone and everything?

Is it time to put on your own oxygen mask, or to fill up your own cup?

Treat yourself to a day of Self-Care, an opportunity to be restored and rejuvenated.

The day aims to nourish your Body Mind and Spirit and is based on the 5 ancient Healing Salves: Silence, Nature, Movement, Music and Storytelling.

30th July and 15th October Sophie Centre, Cumberland Park $100 investment $85 concession includes nourishing food Early Bird Special $90 investment $75 concession

by Friday 7th July

Mandy Price has been a teacher in the Health and Personal Development area for 33 years. She is passionate about reminding women of the need to prioritise one’s health, in order to cope with the stresses of today’s lifestyle and to enhance one’s enjoyment of life. The day allows you to slow down, experience calmness and learn strategies for self-care. I encourage you to treat yourself to being nurtured and nourished.

E: mandyjprice02@gmail.com P: 0415 253 169

Early Childhood – Seven vacancies (a majority of whom shall be Children’s Services Act employees). Members working in Early Childhood Education.

Leaders – One vacancy. Leader members in preschools and schools.

Closing Date: Nominations for these Committee vacancies must reach the Returning Officer, 163 Greenhill Road, Parkside 5063, no later than 12.00 noon on Thursday, 1 June 2017. A nomination form is available at: www.aeusa.asn.au/ nomination.pdf and from the AEU. Nominations may be accompanied by a supporting statement of not more than 200 words.

Election Procedure: Ballots for contested positions will be conducted at Branch Council on Saturday 3 June 2017.

David Smith, Returning Officer

Seeking promotion?

Aspiring Principals, DPs, Senior Leaders, Coordinators

$135 ONLINE PACKAGE FOR APPLICATION WRITING AND INTERVIEW for all promotion positions in SA government schools FULL SCHOOL SITE LICENCE $399 Tailored to DECD’s MERIT SELECTION processes, this detailed 65 page booklet and PowerPoint shows you how to develop a dynamic résumé and cover letter, as well as many valuable ideas and hints to help you prepare for a powerful interview performance!

Available for immediate download at:

www.teachers–resumes.com.au WE ALSO PROVIDE INDIVIDUAL ASSISTANCE

Teachers’ Professional Résumés T: 0411 245 415 E: teachers-resumes@bigpond.com Serving Australia’s teachers since 1990.

ABN: 40 833 718 673

21

COU NCI L DAT E S FO R 2017

NOT ICE BOA R D

Branch Council Meetings

Governor’s Multicultural Award

Saturday, June 3 Saturday, August 26 Saturday, November 11

TAFE Divisional Council Meetings Friday, June 2 Friday, August 25 Friday, November 10

Join Union Aid Abroad APHEDA With over 40 training projects, working through 30 separate project partners in 15 countries, APHEDA assists dozens of communities in Southeast Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East, Southern Africa and the Caribbean. You can support their work by joining up at:

W: apheda.org.au

F

or nearly three decades the Graham F. Smith Peace Foundation’s support for social justice and social change through the arts has seen it foster projects across the artistic spectrum, spotlighting topics as diverse as reconciliation and the legacy of the atomic age. In doing so, it has driven cross-cultural cohesion here and beyond Australia’s borders, including through the Tree of Life sculpture, a peace gift to the people of Nagasaki, Japan.

she was thrilled to receive the Award which was recognition of a nearly three decades of community activism in various areas.

In March, Léonie Ebert received a Governor’s Multicultural Award (2016) on behalf of the Graham F. Smith Peace Foundation. The Award recognises those who promote multiculturalism and increase the community’s awareness and understanding of the benefits of cultural diversity.

If you would like to support the work of the Peace Foundation, you can do so by making a tax-deductible donation at the Australian Cultural Fund website below and clicking on ‘Donate’. n

Léonie Ebert told the AEU Journal

Lip reading & hearing loss management tutors required Are there any teachers/readers interested in training to become a lip reading and hearing loss management tutor?

This is an interesting volunteer role for retired teachers. You will use your teaching skills and learn a variety of new skills working with adults who are hearing impaired. The course takes about a year over two hours a week but time taken depends on the individual and circumstances. (No Auslan involved)

To find out more contact:

BETTER HEARING AUSTRALIA ADELAIDE INC. Coordinator: Dr. Mary Allen email: admin@betterhearing adelaide.com.au or Tutor: Shona Fennell Phone: 08 8268 4189

email: msfennell@bigpond.com 22

TAFE SA MEMBERS Subscription rates for AEU members employed by TAFE SA will be adjusted from 1 January 2017 to reflect salary increases in the TAFE SA Educational Staff Enterprise Agreement 2016.

Please advise AEU Membership staff of any change to your classification, fraction of time, workplace or home address by:

email: updates@aeusa.asn.au phone: 8272 1399 fax: 8373 1254

“We were really honoured to received the Award which acknowledges the hard work done by volunteers over many years, since 1989, in the area of human rights, environmental sustainability and social justice,” she said.

8: www.australianculturalfund .org.au

AEU Journal ONLINE If you currently receive a hard copy of the Journal and would prefer to read the Journal online, please let us know by emailing:

journal@aeusa.asn.au The AEU Journal is online at:

www.aeusa.asn.au/ journals.html

Are you up-to-date ONLINE? We need your preferred

email address

8: membership@aeusa.asn.au or call Membership on: 8272 1399

Email to

NOTICE BOARD

Members’ Market In order to cater for extra editorial space, the AEU Members’ Market now has a reduced space allocation in the Journal.

Advertisements will be printed at the discretion of the Editor and may not run in more than three issues in succession.

KINGSTON NEAR ROBE:

GOOLWA HOLIDAY HOUSE

2-storey on 22 kms of stunning beach stretching down to wineries.

Sleeps 8, 2 bathrooms. Or Balcony Suite, 5 RMs. Special from $70/ double, mid-week, off peak, min.

4-nights. T: 0402 922 445 (Judy)

15-mins from beach, shops and river. Sleeps 9, in-ground pool, decking with BBQ, fully equipped, A/C, etc. $120 for up to 4 people, $30 per head after that. Up to 9 guests. T: 0403 841 031 E: leonday@adam.com.au

SEAGRASS VILLAS AT NORMANVILLE:

VICTOR HARBOR GETAWAYS:

Situated on Jetty Rd, two new 1 BR spacious villas for holiday rental. Luxury accomm. a short stroll to cafes, shops, pub and to the Normanville Beach. Spa in courtyard garden for the perfect getaway, come and treat yourself.

Villa 1 is dog friendly – allowed inside. 5% discount for AEU members.

T: 0409 400 265 (Lynn) E: lynn.wilson22@bigpond.com

2 fully self-contained homes.

Sleeps up to 8. One with private beach/lake! 10% discount to AEU members. T: 0419 868 143 E: foumakis@hotmail.com W: www.victorharborgetaways. com.au

ANCHORAGE BEACH HOUSE NORMANVILLE: Renovated 4 BR, 2 bath holiday home off Jetty Rd. Sleeps 10-12. 5% discount for AEU members. ID; s59 (Marjory St). T: 8558 2900

SAIT Conveyancers

We offer AEU members: Free advice on real estate queries.

Expert advice and professional experience with: • Mortgages, • Private Contract Transfers, • Strata Plan and Plan of Division Lodgments, • Caveats, Discharges of Mortgages, • All facets of conveyancing work.

If you are buying or selling or are involved in any real estate matter, either through a land agent or privately, consult us.

Contact us on:

Anne Walker

(: (08) 8410 6788

Simon Willcox

8410 6799 Email: anne@saitconveyancers.com.au SAIT Conveyancers

Fax: (08)

located at Credit Union SA

Level 3, 400 King William Street, Adelaide, SA 5000

VICTOR HARBOR HOLIDAY HSE: beginning teachers. Books, New, 4 BR, 2 bath, (2 x Qu, 2 x singles, 1 dble bunk), sleeps 8, 3 living areas, 2 balconies, views of hills & Granite Island, A/C, D/W, BBQ, C’pt, 2-storey, quiet location.

T: 0400 303 300 (Ian) E: ir211057@internode.on.net

literacy, maths games and music materials all in good condition.

Contact Betty on: P: 7329 4272 M: 0413 125 399

SECOND VALLEY HOLIDAY HSE:

Contact me to arrange no obligation strategy session for clarity and support with career and lifestyle transitions.

Maureen Cochram - Professional Coach, Lifestyle Strategist Accredited Retirement Coach M: 0401 123 095 E: mcochram@bigpond.com

4 BR brand new 2-story house – sleeps 9 plus 2 fold out couches.

5-min. walk to the jetty. Relax for wkend or longer. T: 0407 654 464 E: arthur1966.dellas@gmail.com

ROBE HOLIDAY HOUSE: Easy walk to main street with shops, cafes and 2 minute stroll to Mahalia Coffee and secure playground. Sleeps up to 8 with 2 bath. Lovely open plan living with all mod cons, A/C. 10% discount to AEU members. Starting rate: $140 p/night. T: 0429 358 797

TEACHING RESOURCES: Retired teacher giving away Literacy & Maths stencil books. Suit Years 3–4 Ring Pauline T: 0400 083 069 E: pnicholson52@hotmail.com

TEACHING RESOURCES: Retired teacher wishes to sell early childhood materials to

TRANSITION COACHING:

Overwhelmed? Frustrated?

Ready for change?

TEACHING RESOURCES: To give away: Folders hard/soft covered...upper to middle primary ...many topics covered...from retired teacher. Donation to the Smith Family. Interested?

T: 0418 834 174 (Jane)

Advertise in Members’ Market for FREE! Rent, sell, buy or offer goods and services. Send ads to:

journal@aeusa.asn.au

AN INVITATION TO RETIRED OR RETIRING TEACHERS & SSOs Have you retired or are about to retire? Are you seeking opportunities to maintain or increase your level of fitness and want to learn more about your city and surrounding hills and bushland? Are you seeking companionship with other retired teachers and their partners as well as other walkers from a range of backgrounds (not just teaching!)?

Walks are organised at several levels. Rovers walk from 14–18 kms, Walkers from 8–10 kms, Ramblers from 6–7 kms and Amblers up to 5 kms. The R.T.A. Walking Group is a sub-group of the Retired Teachers Association and is affiliated with Walking SA – the peak walking body in SA. We walk in conservation parks, national parks and forestry reserves within the Mt Lofty Ranges and Fleurieu Peninsula, suburban beaches and along the six creeks of the Adelaide Plains, the River Torrens Linear Park and other suburban trails. It’s a great way to get to know your city and surroundings! A camp is also organised each year in country areas within SA or Victoria.

If you are interested in finding out more about our walking group, you are invited to contact: our President, Kym Wenham Tel: (08) 8386 1110 email: wenhams@adam.com.au or John Eaton Tel: 0419 176 713 email: joneaton@bigpond.net.au We hope you will join us for the 2017 walking season!

23

Introducing our new credit card, exclusively for the education community

$0 annual fee 0% pa introductory rate^ for 6 months 9.99% pa ongoing interest rate Apply online at creditunionsa.com.au, call 8202 7777,

talk to a mobile manager or visit a branch. ^Rate reverts to 9.99% pa variable rate after 6 months on cash advances, purchases and balances transferred. Interest rates are current as at 1 February 2017 and are subject to change at any time. Education Community Banking Benefits are available to any employee of the Australian education community and their partner.

Lending criteria, fees, conditions apply and are available upon request. Before acquiring any financial product you should consider whether or not it is suitable for you.

Credit Union SA Ltd, ABN 36 087 651 232, AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 241066. Credit Union SA Centre, 400 King William Street, Adelaide SA 5000. 170201