By Kyra Gillespie
Pakenham Hills Primary School has been nominated for the Victorian Education Excellence Awards 2017.
The prestigious awards recognise inspirational teachers, principals, business managers and support staff who improve young lives and give Victorian children the skills, courage and curiosity they need to be their best.
The school is one of 28 individuals and teams from government schools across Victoria to have been shortlisted for the 2017 awards which will be presented on Friday 27 October in Melbourne.
The school is in the running for the Outstanding School Advancement Award.
Members of the School Improvement Team at the school refuse to accept that generational disadvantage determines a student’s future.
“We are really proud of our hard work,” Acting Assistant Principal Gail Butterworth said.
“We as a team have put in a huge amount over the past 12 months so it’s great to get some acknowledgement for it.”
Over the past year the team members have set about creating a school model and culture of collective responsibility for student engagement, wellbeing and achievement.
They led an intensive analysis of existing teaching models, student performance data, school priorities and community engagement.
Through a process of self-reflection and goal setting, they developed an ambitious program to significantly improve professional practice, community collaboration and student outcomes.
“It’s been an intense process, but very rewarding,” Acting Assistant Principal Rachael Kimber said.
“We’re really trying to tighten up the school system to make it better for both the kids and their parents.
“We have been working to shed a positive light on the school and the community more broadly. We are one of the most socially disadvantaged schools in the area so this nomination has been a massive achievement for us.”
This year, the school’s Strategic Plan and Annual Implementation Plan were aligned with FISO (Framework for Improving Student Outcomes) and Education State targets, and a newly formed Professional Learning Community established new standards and a whole-school approach to staff professional development.
A renewed commitment to community connectedness has resulted in plans to build a parent hub on school grounds, and a Prep transition program is forging strong ties with local families to give their children the best possible start at school.
In partnership with the Cardinia Shire Council and Anglicare, ParentZone will be an on-site hub at the school where community and school needs can be connected with the appropriate service systems.
“The parent hub will create a strong collaborative school environment.
“Our main goal is to build routine, consistency and safety for our kids.”
Already, staff are noticing big improvements across the board.
“Achievement data is improving and a positive culture is evolving, which is really exciting to see.
“Now we just have to wait and see if we win the award.”
