All government schools in Victoria have a School Council. They are legally formed bodies that are given the authority to set the key directions of a school within centrally provided guidelines. In doing this, a School Council is able to directly influence the quality of education that the school provides for its students.
Who is on the Council? The term of office for members is two years. There are three categories of membership:
Parent category
More than one third of the total members must be from this category. The Parent category of the school includes each parent of a student of the school, except those who are DET employees engaged in work at, and for, the school. A parent of a student at the school, who is a DET employee but does not work at or for the school is included in the Parent electorate. These parents are classified on council as ‘DET parents’. ‘Parent’ includes a guardian or person who is liable to maintain or has the actual custody of a student of the school. If a DET employee is elected to the Parent category (DET parent) of the school where their child is enrolled but where they do not work, they are counted in the DET employee category for school council meeting quorum requirements.
DET employee category
Members of this category may make up no more than one third of the total membership of the School Council. The Principal of the School is one of these members, along with the Assistant Principal and one other staff member.
Community member category
Persons are co-opted by a decision of the Council because of their special skills, interests or experiences. DET employees are not eligible to be community members.
When does School Council Meet? The School Council meets twice a term at 3pm in the staffroom. Future meeting dates are determined by the School Council before the current meeting is adjourned.
Why is parent membership so important? Parents elected to the Broadmeadows Primary School Council provide important viewpoints and may have valuable skills that can help shape the direction of the School.
If you are interested in joining our School Council, please contact us.
