ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2019

21 February 2020

TEACHERS’ GUILD OF NEW SOUTH WALES ANNUAL REPORT, 2019

Dr Frederick Osman
President, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

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PERSONAL STATEMENT

It is my pleasure to present my report as President of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.  2019 was a very highly successful year, due largely to the continued support from our strong and outstanding Council.

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is a professional organization one joins not for what one can get out of it, but for what one can put into the profession through it. Our Guild is about Voice, giving an opportunity for the voice of the profession as a whole to be heard. We are about Networking; meetings, conferences, workshops and seminars are primarily ways of engaging in our core business as educators – learning. We learn best from each other. Our third function is Recognition. One’s involvement in the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is not to gain recognition, but for the valuable opportunity the structure of the Guild provides for the profession to recognise its stars.

I am willing to continue and be elected again to be President in the new Council and assume the leadership of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales. I have been actively involved with the Teachers’ Guild of NSW since 2006 in a variety of capacities and firmly believe the Guild has a crucial role to play in the current and future context of education.

I would like to acknowledge in this report the work of colleagues on the Council who are also friends, and who give much of themselves for no greater reward than their own professional satisfaction. Such has always been the nature of the Teachers’ Guild. With such a fine Council, and with the foundations so well laid for the Guild’s renewed involvement in the professional development of all teachers, the future is bright. I take this opportunity to thank each and every member of Council – both those still serving, and those who have recently stepped down – for their loyalty, vision, enthusiasm and hard work.

I wish the new Council every success in its Care of Education.

ANNUAL REPORT

The Teachers’ Guild of NSW in 2019 celebrated a long, impressive and honourable history of service, support and training for the vocation of teaching; always maintaining its foundational aim “to promote in all possible ways, the care of education,” strengthening collegiality and standing detached from industrial issues.

Constantly changing, constantly adapting, and constantly seeking to meet the evolving needs of the teaching profession – the continuing life of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales bears witness to the vitality of this small but precious organisation. Today, the Guild continues to promote a long-established theme of deep interest in the professional development and encouragement of colleague educators, providing opportunities for members of the profession to network, refine skills, and receive recognition.

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COUNCIL

The Guild is led by its Council.  In 2019, the Council comprised:

1.      Ms Lauren Barlow, Northholm Grammar School

2.      Ms Noelene Callaghan, Glenwood High School

3.      Mrs Frances Fleeton, Retired (Past President)

4.      Ms Kathryn Fraser, Kings School               

5.      Mrs Diane Gourlas, TAFENSW (Vice-President)

6.      Mr Peter Green, Retired (Treasurer)

7.      Ms Alexi Kayes, Lorretto Normanhurst (Proceedings Editor)

8.      Ms Lauren Knussen, University of Technology Sydney

9.      Mr Tom Mae, Trinity Grammar School

10.    Mr Patrick Nam, Brigidine College Randwick (Secretary)

11.    Dr Frederick Osman, Boston University (President)

12.    Ms Sharrda Shah, Transform Education

13.    Mr Alex Wharton, Carinya Christian School Gunnedah

NEW VENTURES

THE ASSOCIATION SPECIALISTS (TAS)

On the 1st July 2019, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales signed a contract with The Association Specialists (TAS) for the provision of Association Management Services and to consolidate their services and administrative processes in one central hub. This has included services in office management and infrastructure; communication; membership management; marketing; website & publication support and event management. The Contract Period is for 1 year which commenced on the 1/07/2019 and is to be rolled-over for further periods of twelve (12) months at a time (pending annual review) from the completion of the Agreement, until such a time as a new Agreement is signed between the parties or a termination has been exercised.

We look forward in working closely with TAS in helping to raise our professional status and systems, through their professional expertise, to optimise the successful running of administration / secretariat duties. We believe that TAS is perfectly positioned to deliver an exceptional service and add measurable value to the Guild.

I would like to thank Jack Slater, Business Development Manager and Neil Harrison, Executive Director from The Association Specialists (TAS) for this opportunity. I also would like to particularly thank Megan Ogier, Director of Member Services for all her help with the smooth transition of the onboarding process for The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.

In 2020, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales will consist of a new election of Council in terms of reference, as part of The Guld’s new proposed constitution, due to the changes implemented with TAS for our services and administrative processes. The Association Specialists Pty Ltd (TAS) will undertake the Secretariat for the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Council for the duration of the Agreement period. The Program of Work encompasses all of the services outlined in Schedule B Services provided in the new Constitution.

The new Council at the 2020 Annual General Meeting, will consist of the President, three Vice Presidents (one of whom is the immediate past-President), the Treasurer and Councillors that are Members of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.

In 2019, the Council updated its Constitution and I would like to thank the work of Frances Fleeton in leading the review of the proposed new Constituion for the Teacher’s Guild of New South Wales.

In 2019, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales was delighted to partner with a number of Corporate Sponsors in supporting our Awards and Events in 2019. I would like to thank the Teachers Mutual Bank – We put you first and would particularly thank Conor Kiernan and David Herring in partnering with the Guild Research Award.

I would like to thank CEO Daniel Mundy and Mr Simon Withers from anzuk.education in continuing their corporate sponsorships of the Awards for Teachers in their Early Years of Teaching until the end of 2022. The Guild appreciates the support of our corporate sponsors for our awards in ensuring their brand is recognised and valued with our events in terms of service and delivery. I would like to thank CEO Dr David Williams from MWLP Linking Youth in supporting and sponsoring the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Annual Dinner and Presentation of Awards for 2019

To enable printing and mail out costs to be budgeted and to guarantee good quality publications, the Guild engaged the services of SNAP Printing at Burwood. This has enabled our printing and mail out of various materials to have a professional look at a reasonable cost. I can also confirm an exciting opportunity was arranged with SNAP Printing to provide a further 25% discount off all printing for the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales as a corporate sponsor until the end of 2022.

In 2019, the Council endorsed an exciting new opportunity for the Guild to play a pivotal role in income growth to support the Guild’s endeavours in 2020. This will be an important strategic direction to enhance the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales income generation, reputation and image within the education and business community by developing and implementing strategies to build on existing relationships, and develop new relationships, with corporate contacts for the Guild brand, with high profile education and business communities.

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales supports families and educators of gifted children and has engaged to work closely with Gifted Families Support Group Incorporated (GFSG) in raising awareness, support and professional learning needs of teachers of gifted children within our state community. We look forward to a future of continued collaboration through our Memorandum of Understanding between the GUILD / GFSG Inc.

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FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS

Our Treasurer, Mr Peter Green, has undertaken the management of the Guild’s accounts in 2019. The accounts have continued to show assets that we can draw upon to enable the Guild to deliver our various programs. This year, the Guild explored financial opportunities with The Association Specialists (TAS) to help with our online membership renewals and other payment services for the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales. Our Treasurer has managed the accounts well this past year. The Guild appreciates all the work that Peter has displayed in organising the accounts and liaising with the Guild’s accountant to ensure that the accounts are fully audited and are available in good time for the Annual General Meeting.

The Council would like to thank Mr Peter Green for his outstanding work with the Treasury role for the Guild.

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MEMBERSHIP

Following on from previous years, I invited Kathryn Fraser and Sharrda Shah to join the council in 2019. We value the continued support of our members and their ability to inform others about the Guild’s offerings each year and as a result this has seen a steady increase in our membership.

I would like to thank the Council for its continued success in resolving to explore ways to expand our membership base with Honorary Fellowships and Corporate and Student membership levels, in addition to regular membership. It would appear that these changes have had an impact on the overall membership numbers. There is no doubt that the Guild is currently “on a roll”. Membership is growing; our work with teachers is developing a positive reputation and earning respect; our Council is strong. It gives me immense pleasure to report this to our members; and more so to report that Council has already taken the next step to expand our activities to a wider range of members. Those who coined the happy epithet, “The Care of Education” so long ago in our history would be well pleased with the Guild today.

Early in 2019, Patrick Nam was invited to take on an important role for the Guild as our Membership Officer. He has continued to work tirelessly to steadily review and coordinate our renewals and membership database throughout the year and prepared the transition for TAS to take on this responsibility. I would like to thank Patrick Nam for his leadership and work in re-organising our membership structures.

The membership fee for all levels of membership has increased to support additional meetings and projected costs for the provision of Association Management Services.

For our functions, incentives were offered for early-bird registrations and group registration in an effort to entice more corporate groups to attend.  The Guild continued to communicate more by email to our members to reduce costs and facilitate more effective communication, especially with our younger members. This proved effective and beneficial in bringing the Guild’s offerings to more individuals in the educational community.

THE PROCEEDINGS AND AUSTRALIAN TEACHER NEWSLETTER OF THE TEACHERS’ GUILD OF NEW SOUTH WALES

My special thanks are extended to Mrs Hayley Tuft, without whom this Proceedings publication would not be possible. Mrs Tuft had been the sole driving force behind its development during 2017-18. I would also like to extend my thanks to Ms Alexi Kayes who has worked diligently to modify and prepare material for The Australian Teacher – The Newsletter of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales. Both publications provided outstanding articles and insights in bringing topical education issues to our members, while endeavoring to cater for younger members, by providing opportunities for them to accrue hours of professional development that are meaningful and practical in nature.

I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Mrs Frances Fleeton who has spent time proof reading the documents for the Proceedings and Newsletter issues.

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PROGRAM FOR THE YEAR

The challenge each year for the Council is to plan a varied program that provides professionals in Schools with a choice of events that reflect current educational issues. Each year the Guild evaluates what changes should be made to our current programs to further meet the needs of our audience.

In 2019, the Guild proudly celebrated its 127th year and continued to make a significant contribution to the professional development of teachers within the education sector.

On Saturday 23rd March, The Teachers’ Guild of NSW and Gifted Families Support Group Inc., joined in partnership with the vision to: provide a unique platform for all educators to network as they engage in best practice application for gifted learners within their chosen field. A Conference Organising Committee was convened and comprised of Melinda Gindy, Dr Frederick Osman, Penina Barry, Vic Branson, Katrina Calverley, Kathryn Fraser, Peta Jauncey, Nicole Sabbadin and Dr Anne-Marie Singh.

The Gifted Awareness Forum for Educators (GAFE) was then established and incorporated the National Gifted Awareness Week 2019 theme “Belonging”. The program was designed to emphasise both networking (within both focus areas and stages) and practical application, delivered on a professional platform. The Forum was held in the beautiful grounds of Newington College in Stanmore, Sydney, New South Wales and catering was supplied by The Grounds of Alexandria.

The Organising Committee was thrilled to receive extensive support for GAFE throughout multiple school sectors and regions across New South Wales. The GAFE program was thoroughly embraced by the 100+ attendees and received some very positive feedback. International Keynote, Associate Professor Lannie Kanevsky opened our forum with her presentation: ‘Brilliance Belongs in School – Let’s Find It’. Lannie emphasised the Brilliant Behaviours that distinguish high ability learners from their peers as “symptoms” of learners, underlying potential, resulting from the combined influences from Quantitative and Qualitative differences.

The Organising Committee would like to thank our sponsors Newington College, VS Oceania, Bookform, anzuk.education, Walker books, Hawker Brownlow Education and the Science Teacher’s Association of NSW. Their generous support contributed greatly to the success of the Forum. 

On behalf of Melinda Gindy, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Organising Committee and respective association committees for their hard work, dedication and commitment to the success of the Gifted Awareness Forum for Educators. 

On Monday 1st July, 2019, more than 220 delegates attended the third Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Schools forum organised by Teachers’ Guild of NSW, MWLP Linking Youth and the Australian College of Educators (Hills Parramatta) in providing a unique cross-sectoral platform for educators and industries around the theme: Excellence in VET Practice.

The guests from across all school sectors, included School Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), VET Trainers, Government Departments, VET and Career support organisations, Group Training Organisations, other RTOs, TAFE NSW and Industry from across the State. Raising the status of VET in Schools as a valuable pathway for young people into sustainable work, offering rewarding career pathways, was an important message from the speakers at the Forum. The Forum highlighted the great work being done in the VET in Schools programs within each of the school sectors.

All workshops provided excellent opportunities for professional development, discussion and reflection for VET Teachers to take back to their respective organisations .

I would like to thank the Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education, The Hon, Dr Geoffrey Lee, for delivering the opening address. We thank the Principal of Southern Cross Catholic Vocational College, Mr Patrick O’Reilly for his support in utilising the facilities for this important event. In addition, we wish to sincerely thank Nicole Massara for all her work in helping the smooth running of this VET forum.

On Friday 16th August, the Teachers’ Guild of NSW held its annual Guild Research Awards Presentation Evening at the Sydney campus of Boston University. These awards celebrate the work being undertaken by graduate research students and teachers in NSW to advance current knowledge in the education field.

Seven researchers and teachers presented their research on the evening and the range of foci was impressive. Topics presented included parental perspectives of educational practices for gifted students, pre-service teachers’ knowledge of assessment for learning in literacy, drama as a pedagogy for inclusion, bilingualism in Korean migrant families, connecting mathematics and science, preparing better chemists for HSC Chemistry, and teachers’ growth orientation and classroom mathematics outcomes. The difficult job of deciding on the recipients of the awards was the responsibility of the esteemed panel of judges to whom the Guild is extremely grateful for their professional contribution.

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Professor Andrew Martin              University of New South Wales

Mr Rick Stevens                             Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

Ms Sharrda Shah                           Transform Education, Founder and CEO

Mrs Lisa Allum                               Queenwood School

Dr John Kennedy                          University of New England

THE RESEARCH AWARD FINALISTS FOR 2019:

Helen Baber, University of New South Wales

Keiko Bostwick, University of New South Wales

Andrew Eaton, Wollondilly Anglican College

Olivia Karaolis, University of Sydney

Jake Little, University of Sydney

Cherry Zin Oo, University of New South Wales

Eun Kyong Park, University of New South Wales

The judges ranked the candidates according to the criteria and determined the winners for the following categories:

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The 2019 Teachers Mutual Bank Award winner was OLIVIA KARAOLIS from the University of Sydney.

The 2019 Guild Research Award winner was JAKE LITTLE from the University of Sydney.

The Guild would like to thank Lauren Knussen for coordinating the event and to acknowledge the outstanding presentations from the participants.

On Thursday 22nd August, Merissa Perivolarellis, a student member of The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales held a Networking event at The Royal Darlington Hotel to catch up with new and young educators in a relaxed social setting. The purpose of this gathering was to provide information about the Guild Educators’ Network and to hear about upcoming educational opportunities, exchange ideas, engage in conversation and make connections with other new and young educators. The event was also organised with an aim to raise awareness of the Guild and encourage the involvement of pre- service teachers. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Merissa for organising this event and meeting with the new and young educators in a relaxed social setting. We are looking forward to Merissa organising more of these events in the near future and making connections with other new and young educators as part of our Guild Educators’ Network.

On Thursday, 12th September, the Guild hosted a Learning with Digital Technologies in the Classroom event with guest speakers Jason Milner, Noelene Callaghan and Professor Garry Falloon speaking about their journeys and interesting research discoveries, relating to the utilisation of digital technology in the classroom, to inspire and toremind teachers of the advantages of technology in supporting the curriculum.

Jason Milner, from Knox Grammar College, demonstrated a captivating presentation, using a cube, where audiences could choose the presentation topic from opposing ends of the cube and spoke about the different apps available.  His teaching philosophy of challenge based and inquiry-based learning through technology, has proven to drive his students’ ambition of changing the world with their creations.

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Noelene Callaghan, has played a significant role in the Glenwood High School community. She explained her journey about the implementation of technology within the schooling community, as a means of combatting a common issue experienced by parents, whereby they felt significantly disconnected from the school community. It was through the development of a Media team, where students met on certain mornings, lunchtimes and afternoons to film and edit a school news report and radio station, that the school community developed and tightened. As well as this, the Media technology explored Australian laws relating to the implementation and use of technology and social media within our everyday lives, and developed skills and knowledge related to public speaking, Information and Communication Technology, and communication skills.

Professor Garry Falloon from Macquarie University specialises in STEM education, mobile and digital learning, curriculum and pedagogy design. As an educational researcher, he spoke about his research - investigating the collaborative and cognitive skills children have developed whilst using tablets by recording students’ digital learning in classrooms. In these recordings, examples of students arguing to come to a negotiated conclusion showcases the students’ learning process and using technology as an effective tool in group collaborations. Another of his innovative research on using technology creatively is by using voiceless Science simulations that has proven to be unique for students working scientifically through hypothesising, assuming, predicting and testing, instead of relying on machines.

The evening concluded with a highly successful and intriguing Question Time, where event attendees were provided with the opportunity to ask our three guest speakers questions related to their project. We thanked our guest speakers Jason Milner, Noelene Callaghan and Professor Garry Falloon for presenting at our event.

As part of our ongoing joint commitment to furthering evidence-based practice in gifted education throughout NSW, Gifted Families Support Group Inc. (GFSG Inc.) and the Teachers’ Guild of NSW co-hosted the event Access to Selective Education – Cross Sectoral Discussion. Held on Monday 16th September, executives, educators and supporters gathered together in the beautiful facilities at the Concord Golf Club.

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Dr Ben North, Principal Research Officer at the New South Wales Department of Education (DoE) working at the Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation (CESE), set the scene for the evenings’ discussion. Dr North proficiently detailed the findings and process of the recent DoE Access to Selective Schooling Review and discussed some of the issues that have great relevance for how schools assess and place students in learning programs in NSW schools. As lead in the Review of Selective Education Access (RSEA) project, a major review of the application, assessment, and placement processes for selective education programs in NSW public schools, Dr North provided valuable insight into the place of selective education for gifted students within our state history.

Following this presentation and a short networking break, Dr North joined a panel of cross - sectoral executive for discussion and Q&A session. Penina Barry, Education Officer, Newman Selective Program Expansion and Mark Long, Principal, Penrith High School commented on the benefits and barriers overcome, in implementing selective education at their school or sector. The panel was chaired by Melinda Gindy, President, GFSG Inc. and President, Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented (AAEGT). The comments provided much discussion amongst the panel and generated several questions from attendees. The provision of selective schooling as an option for gifted and high performing students remained as a priority throughout the discussion and comments sought to explore fair and equitable access for all.

The success of the evening would not have been possible without the expertise of Dr Ben North, Penina Barry, Mark Long and Melinda Gindy.

On Friday October 25, on World Teachers’ Day, the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales held its 2019 World Teachers’ Celebration at the Concord Golf Club, to award the outstanding professional contribution to education made by a select group of teachers.

This evening is a celebration of the amazing, talented, innovative, progressive and essential work that educators do on a daily basis to ensure Australians have access to and receive the best possible education available.

These awards highlight the achievements and diversity of the education profession across our State. This important occasion allows us to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of all our teachers in an increasingly complex, multicultural and technological society.

The Teachers’ Guild of NSW greatly admires the commitment of teachers in enhancing their professional knowledge, improving teaching practice, finding new ways to engage with students, and developing and fostering relationships with the wider community.

This year, 230 guests gathered to celebrate the presentation of awards presented by special guests : The Hon. Sarah Mitchell, MP, Minister for Education and Prue Car MP, Shadow Minister for Education. The event honored 68 worthy recipients across the different sectors and stages of education. I would like to thank both Prue Car and The Hon Sarah Mitchell MLC for attending the evening and being involved with the presentation of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW Annual Awards Evening.

This year we were delighted to honour Dr Dan White, former Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Sydney, with the Phyllis Evans Medal for 2019, acknowledging the Award Certificates in his honour and recognizing the outstanding professional contribution to education made by teachers.

The Guild also acknowledged Mr Rick Stevens FTGN (Life Member of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW) with a membership milestone in Celebrating 50 Years of Membership. Mr Stevens was elected and approved as a member of the Teachers Guild of NSW from July, 1969, when he was a student attending the Guild College. The Council of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW acknowledged Rick’s remarkable and active membership achievement in Celebrating 50 Years to the profession. Mr Steven received his 50 years membership plaque from the Council of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.

Awards for teachers in their early years of teaching in 2019 have been very popular and we thank the generous sponsorship by anzuk - providing quality educators since 2004; every way, every day, always in supporting this Award category.

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PRIMARY SCHOOL DIVISION FINALISTS:

April Bryson, Lakes Grammar School, Warnervale

Taylor Graham, Barker College

Emily McMahon, Abbotsleigh

Lauren Taylor, St Philip’s Christian School, Cessnock

The 2019 Primary School Division winner was APRIL BRYSON from Lakes Grammar School.

SENIOR SCHOOL DIVISION FINALISTS:

Chris Crimmins, St Paul’s Grammar School, Cranebrook

Zachary Ellul, St Joseph Catholic High School

Zachary Gorton, Macarthur Anglican School

Jeremy Hawkes, Radford College, ACT

Diana Webster, Abbotsleigh

The 2019 Secondary School Division winner was ZACHARY ELLUL from St Joseph Catholic High School.

The Guild Scholarship Prize is donated by the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales for an outstanding student in the second year of the MTeach program at the University of Sydney.

The 2019 Guild Scholarship Prize winner was Nathan Archer from the University of Sydney.

The Guild Research Award and Teachers Mutual Bank Award were offered to a Postgraduate Student and/or Experienced teacher in NSW, who is currently completing or completed outstanding research of direct benefit to classroom teaching. These awards have been well supported as The Presentation Evening attracted an unprecedented number of presentations and the Guild was delighted with the quality of the applications that were presented for consideration. We thank the generous sponsorship from Teachers Mutual Bank – We put you first in supporting this Award category.

THE RESEARCH AWARD FINALISTS:

Helen Baber, University of New South Wales

Keiko Bostwick, University of New South Wales

Andrew Eaton, Wollondilly Anglican College

Olivia Karaolis, University of Sydney

Jake Little, University of Sydney

Cherry Zin Oo, University of New South Wales

Eun Kyong Park, University of New South Wales

The 2019 Teachers Mutual Bank Award winner was OLIVIA KARAOLIS from the University of Sydney.

The 2019 Guild Research Award winner was JAKE LITTLE from the University of Sydney.

The Honorary Fellowship (HFTGN) awards continue to increase our Membership profile. We congratulate Melinda Gindy on being awarded Honorary Fellowship in 2019.

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Melinda Gindy HFTGN has a background in Music teaching across Primary and Secondary settings and is the Leader of Diverse Learning at a K-12 school in Sydney, NSW. Melinda is the President of the Australian Association for the Education of the Gifted and Talented (AAEGT) and represents the AAEGT at the Australian Alliance for Associations in Education (AAAE). Melinda is the Founding President of GFSG Inc., the NSW association represented on the AAEGT. She is the former AAEGT Vice-President (2015 - 2019) and was founding National Facilitator of Gifted Awareness Week Australia from 2015 to 2019. Melinda is also an Australian Delegate to the World Council for Gifted and Talented Children. Melinda served on the organising Committees for the 2016 AAEGT National Gifted Conference, the 2017 and 2019 NSW Gifted Awareness Forum for Educators (GAFE), and the 22nd Biennial World Gifted Conference.In 2016, Melinda published 2E Music Studio, an evidence-based resource for Music teachers focussed on meeting the needs of twice- exceptional gifted students. Melinda Gindy is a worthy recipient of the 2019 Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Honorary Fellowship Award.

The World Teachers’ Recognition Awards citations were presented to outstanding teachers who have made a wonderful contribution to their school in advancing the education profession.

Abderrahim Abbou, Homebush Boys Public School

Lisa Andreatta, Penrith Selective High School

Helen Baber, St Philip's Christian College, Newcastle

Simone Babic, St John Bosco College, Engadine

Ehab Bakour, Granville Boys High School

Katherine Barbeler, Gosford High School

Kim Barber, Shore School

Amber Bidwell, Redlands

Sue Briggs, Penrith Selective High School

Kimberley Burgess, Shore School

Melissa Carson, Champagnat Catholic College

Robin Delucia, Turning Point Consulting

Drew Dickson, Northern Beaches Christian School

Warren Dobes, Shore School

Lauren Doughty, Corowa Public School

Bridget Farrell, Pittwater House

Nathan Fepulea’i, Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School

Cathy Forrester, Sydney Catholic Schools, T/L Directorate

Hannah Frater, Jindabyne Central School

Donna Garland, Gordon West Public School

Bridget Goldthorp, Gordon West Public School

Monique Holburn, Metella Road Public School

Amanda Holland, Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School

Aidan Johnson, John Therry Catholic School

Belinda Jones, Thomas Reddall High School

Kerry Kelaher, Mount Riverview Public School

Michael Leadbeatter, Trinity Grammar School

Sandra Love, Granville Boys High School

Kate Maher, Thomas Reddall High School

Ashleigh Maihi, MLC School

Antoinetta Marchetta, Penrith Selective High School

Alastair McCallum, Barker College

Michelle McKinnon, St Therese Catholic Primary School, Sadleir

Michael Murphy, Northern Beaches Christian School

Rachel Nugent, Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School

Justin O’Neill, St Joachim's Catholic Primary School, Lidcombe

Maryellen Ottaway, Trinity Grammar School

Phil Pratt, Trinity Grammar School

Noroja Rouzbehi, Department of Education

Andy Sexton, Sylvania Height Public School

Joanne Short, Kingswood Campus, TAFE

Stellina Sim, Redlands

Michelle Smith, Lakes Grammar - An Anglican School

Christie Staniforth, St John Bosco College, Engadine

Robert Stuart, St Philips Christian College – Newcastle

Jay Trevaskis, Covenant Christian School

Dale Wellham, Camden High School

Jessica Wickenden, Shore School

Jessica Xerub, Gordon West Public School

Mandy Young, Sylvania Height Public School

Special thanks to Northholm Grammar School and Lauren Barlow for the opportunity in organizing outstanding student performances by Oscar Henderson; Lucy Coad; Amber Garth; Caleb Eveniss; Bridget Davey; Joseph Clemmit and Andy Ward from Northholm Grammar School. Special thanks also to David Stratton who attended and helped with the coordination of the music.

These Awards have been benefited from the generous sponsorship by the following Sponsors and stakeholders in supporting the Awards:

anzuk represented by Simon Withers.

Teachers Mutual Bank represented by Conor Kiernan and David Herring.

MWLP Linking Youth represented by Dr David Williams and Janelle Henson.

Snap Printing Burwood represented by Beena Thankur and Gina Turner.

I would also like to particularly thank Marilena Herranz and the management of the Concord Golf Club on their wonderful service during the evening.

The Guild congratulates all award recipients for their incredible achievements.

Prior to the Awards evening, a record number of applications for each of the awards presented had been thoroughly screened and interviews had been undertaken to determine the awardees. I wish to express my sincere thanks on behalf of the Teachers’ Guild to all the people who generously gave of their time to ensure these processes were undertaken. Thanks to the members of the Committee who offered to chair the two panels – Lauren Barlow (Primary) and Patrick Nam (Secondary). The Guild also thanks Dr Helen Hughes, Rick Stevens and Frances Fleeton (Chair of Awards Committee) who helped on panels and by interviewing the candidates.

We finished the year on Thursday, 19th November by hosting the first FamilyBookform teacher professional learning workshop at the Concord Golf Club. Carey Furze, Founder of the FamilyBookform technology, demonstrated how the Family Communication projects are a valuable online resource for teachers to save time, achieve academic and holistic education results, and engage both students and their families in transformational learning.

The FamilyBookform technology scaffolds students to collaborate with their families by doing face-to-face interviews, using technology as a tool to collect their spoken life stories (voice-to-text in any language), information and photos into personalised keepsake books. We thank Carey for giving us an enlightening and insightful workshop on STEAM Projects – Literacy, Communication & Experiential Learning at the Guild Educators Network (GEN).

As the year drew to a close, the final function was our annual Christmas Celebration, held on Sunday 8 December at the Concord Golf Club. All Councillors were invited to celebrate another successful year with good food and excellent company.

In 2020, the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is delighted to continue to host their events and Council meetings at the Concord Golf Club. The Clubhouse and gardens provide an intimate and picturesque setting for our functions with the highest quality food and immaculate club facilities. The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales would like to thank the Concord Golf Club Board of Directors and Marilena Herranz for their support in hosting the Guild.

As another year of challenges and change begins, today’s world is vastly different from that of 50 years ago. And the pace of change is accelerating, with increasing globalisation; advances in technology, communications and social networking; greatly increased access to information; an explosion of knowledge; and an array of increasingly complex social and environmental issues.

The world of work also is undergoing rapid change with greater workforce mobility, growth in knowledge-based work, the emergence of multi-disciplinary work teams engaged in innovation and problem solving, and a much greater requirement for continual workplace learning. The school curriculum must attempt to equip students for this significantly change and changing world. The Teachers’ Guild must keep in touch with current issues if we are to remain in the forefront of professional associations.

The Guild remains an important influence, embracing the new while retaining the core values on which it was founded, and emboldens members to always uphold and advocate the motto Doceo Ut Discam – I Teach That I May Learn. That is our charter and what we endeavour to deliver to our membership.

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all” Aristotle

Yours sincerely,

Dr Frederick Osman FTGN FACE FRSN FAIP JP

President | The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

​

​22 February 2019

TEACHERS’ GUILD OF NEW SOUTH WALES ANNUAL REPORT, 2018

Dr Frederick Osman
President, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

PERSONAL STATEMENT

It is my pleasure to present my report as President of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.  2018 was a very highly successful year, due largely to the continued support from our strong and outstanding Council.

I would also like to acknowledge in this report the work of colleagues on the Council who are also friends, and who give much of themselves for no greater reward than their own professional satisfaction. Such has always been the nature of the Teachers’ Guild. With such a fine Council, and with the foundations so well laid for the Guild’s renewed involvement in the professional development of all teachers, the future is bright. I take this opportunity to thank each and every member of Council – both those still serving, and those who have recently stepped down – for their loyalty, vision, enthusiasm and hard work.

I am willing to continue and be elected again to be President of the new Council and I hope that I can continue to count on the support of the members of the Council during the coming year to support the newly elected Council.

In 2018, new Council position descriptions were revised to support the Council in achieving its range of activities for our Vice President; Honorary Secretary; Honorary Treasurer and Membership Officer. It is imperative that as a Council we are encouraged to strategically plan for succession in the roles of leadership of the Guild for 2019.

I wish the new Council every success in its Care of Education.

ANNUAL REPORT

The Teachers’ Guild of NSW in 2018 celebrated a long, impressive and honourable history of service, support and training for the vocation of teaching; always maintaining its foundation aim “to promote in all possible ways, the care of education,” strengthening collegiality and standing detached from industrial issues.

Constantly changing, constantly adapting, and constantly seeking to meet the evolving needs of the teaching profession – the continuing life of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales bears witness to the vitality of this small but precious organisation. Today, the Guild continues to promote a long-established theme of deep interest in the professional development and encouragement of colleague educators, providing opportunities for members of the profession to network, refine skills, and receive recognition.

COUNCIL

The Guild is led by its Council.  In 2018, the Council comprised:

1. Ms Lauren Barlow                  Northholm Grammar School

2. Ms Noelene Callaghan         Glenwood High School        

3. Mrs Frances Fleeton              Retired                          (Past President)

4. Mrs Diane Gourlas                 TAFENSW

5. Mr Peter Green                       Retired                          (Treasurer)

6. Mrs Alexi Kayes                      Careers Education Consultant

7. Ms Lauren Knussen                University of Technology Sydney

8. Mr Tom Mae                           Trinity Grammar School

9. Mr Patrick Nam                      Brigidine College Randwick

10. Dr Frederick Osman              Trinity Grammar School       (President)

11. Ms Katharyn Reid                   St Catherine’s School   (Vice-President)

12. Ms Hayley Tuft   Macarthur   Anglican School  (Editor of the Proceedings)

13. Mr Alex Wharton                   Northern Beaches Christian School (Secretary)

FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS

Our Treasurer, Mr Peter Green, has undertaken the management of the Guild’s accounts in 2018. The accounts have continued to show assets that we can draw upon to enable the Guild to deliver our various programs. Our Treasurer has managed the accounts well this past year. This year, the Guild explored opportunities with the St George Bank to purchase an EFTPOS facility to help with providing a better financial service for our membership and other online payment services for the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales. The Guild also introduced the initiative of online payments which has resulted in the Guild being able to make payments quickly to creditors and to reduce greatly the reliance on payments by cheques. The Council would like to thank Mr Peter Green for his outstanding work with the treasury role for the Guild.

MEMBERSHIP

Following on from previous years, I wrote to each of last year’s Award winners inviting them to join Council, with a positive response from Ms Lauren Barlow, and Ms Lauren Knussen. I also invited Mrs Diane Gourlas, Mrs Alexi Kayes, and Mr Patrick Nam to join the council in 2018.

We value the continued support of our members and their ability to inform others about the Guild’s offerings each year and as a result this has seen a steady increase in our membership.

I would like to thank the continued success of Council in resolving to explore ways to expand our membership base by continuing with Honorary Fellowships and Corporate and Student membership levels in addition to regular membership. It would appear that these changes have had an impact on the overall membership numbers. There is no doubt that the Guild is currently “on a roll”. Membership is growing; our work with teachers is gaining reputation and earning respect; our Council is strong. It gives me immense pleasure to report this to our members; and more so to report that Council has already taken the next step to expand our activities for a wide range of members. Those who coined the happy epithet, “The Care of Education”, so long ago in our history would be well pleased with the Guild today.

Early in 2017, Katharyn Reid was invited to take on an important new role for the Guild as our Membership Officer. Ms Reid has continued to work tirelessly to steadily review and coordinate our renewals and membership database throughout the year, seeking advice from other Councillors.

We thank Katharyn for all her support with the Guild and we are very excited about the next stage of her career in being offered Leadership at Seymour College in Adelaide. This is a wonderful opportunity for Katharyn and we wish her all the very best in this role in 2019. I would also like to congratulate Patrick Nam who has been invited by Council to take on this important membership coordinator role for the Guild in 2019.

The membership fee for all levels of membership remains the same for 2019, but with additional meeting projected costs, an increase in membership fees may need to be reviewed for 2020.

For our functions, incentives were offered for early-bird registrations and group registration in an effort to entice more corporate groups to attend.  The Guild continued to communicate more by email to our members to reduce costs and facilitate more effective communication, especially with our younger members. This proved effective and beneficial in bringing the Guild’s offerings to more individuals in the educational community.

TEACHERS’ GUILD HOSTS COLLEGE REUNION

The chance spotting by Alan Harper (Past President) of an advertisement placed in the Sydney Morning Herald by former Guild College student Peter Holmes, led to discussions about how the Guild might support a reunion of graduates.

The result was a gathering of 39 former students at Trinity Grammar School on 4th October, also attended by Rick Stevens and Patrick Nam (Guild Councillor), for a sumptuous afternoon tea at the Trinity Grammar School Dining Hall generously provided by the Teachers’ Guild. The graduating years spanned 1970 to 1982, all but one having completed the full-time course. Apologies included Barbara Zaremba who was at one time Principal of the Guild Teacher’s College. Peter Holmes thanked the Guild for its support and spoke about the College’s “genuine humanity” and how the teachers cared about the students. He also encouraged volunteers to come forward to ensure that some future events can be organised.

I spoke about the Guild and its contributions to education in NSW over 126 years citing as its most influential endeavour the impact of the Teacher Training Committee and the Guild College from 1948 to 1982. I also announced the impending launch of an updated Guild History which would complement the work on the first 100 years written by Beverley Fletcher in 1992.

Printed information about Guild membership and events was made available and all present were invited to register for the Annual Dinner and Awards Night. Attendees signed up to the beginning of what is hoped to be a growing data base.

The afternoon was a most pleasant occasion as friendships were renewed and stories shared. Of the 39 graduates, it was very pleasing to hear that 18 are still teaching. Several attendees continued their reminiscences over dinner at a nearby restaurant.

GUILD HISTORY

Celebrating 125 years of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW

Editor: Ian Keese assisted by Denise Thomas

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales launched its new 125 years Guild History publication at the TEACHERS’ GUILD OF NEW SOUTH WALES ANNUAL DINNER and PRESENTATION OF AWARDS on Friday 26 October 2018.

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is a remarkable body which for 125 years has maintained its foundation aim to promote in all possible ways “the care of education”. The Council of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is delighted to produce Caring for Education, celebrating 125 years of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW, a publication that builds on Beverley Fletcher’s history published in 1992. Beverley’s work is brought up to date through the contributions of Guild Presidents from Rex Morgan’s reflections on the 1960s and 1970s to Frances Fleeton, our Immediate Past President, and President from 2005 to 2015. The contributions of Guild Presidents are supplemented by two additional special studies by Life Members and former Executive Members of the Guild Council, Denise Thomas and Rick Stevens. Denise has focused on the contribution of women throughout the Guild’s 125-year history, while Rick has given us a personal reflection of his time as a student of the Guild Teachers’ College where he began his “internship” in 1968. My special thanks are extended to Mr Ian Keese, without whom this publication would not have been possible. Ian has been the driving force behind the development of the publication working closely with the eight contributing authors.

This new publication, produced by the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales, reflects the Guild’s continuing commitment to providing an up-to-date overview of the variety of events that the Guild has offered during its long history. As the longest established professional organisation for teachers in Australia, the Guild has for 125 years been an undeniably important influence in the history of education in New South Wales. It continues its commitment to the care of teaching, to stand on the shoulders of past and current members who have helped to shape education in this State and positively enrich a countless number of school students’ lives.

Today, the Guild continues to promote a long-established theme of deep interest in the professional development and encouragement of educators, providing opportunities for members of the profession to network, refine skills, and receive recognition. Its primary concern when it was founded was for the development of teachers by teachers, and the name “Guild” continues to capture that noble purpose. The goodwill which our association commands in schools will continue to be met by our earnest endeavours to champion and support the finest values in our profession. An association like ours survives because of the work of many volunteers. Most notably among these are those who work to advance the cause of education generally and the profession of education in particular. The Guild remains an important influence, embracing the new, while retaining the core values on which it was founded, and emboldens members to uphold and advocate the motto, doceo ut discam – I teach, that I may learn. I commend this publication to you and hope that the material will stimulate discussion, provide insight, and affirm you, in your most important role – educating the youth of Australia.

PROGRAMME FOR THE YEAR

The challenge each year for the Council is to plan a varied programme that provides professionals in Schools with a choice of events that reflect current educational issues. Each year the Guild evaluates what changes should be made to our current programmes to further meet the needs of our audience.

In 2018, the Guild proudly celebrated its 126th year and continued to make a significant contribution to the professional development of teachers within the education sector.

On Monday 9 April, The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales welcomed expert panellists from a variety of backgrounds, schools and perspectives, for a Leadership Panel Forum addressing the topical questions: How do we reinvent education? And, How can we build better schools together? Our esteemed panel included:

Dr Linda O’Brien AM who has been the principal at Granville Boys High since 2008 and is passionate about the great value of an arts education for young people.

Darren Cox is currently the principal of St Philip’s Christian College Cessnock, which is an innovative school situated on 100 acres in the Hunter Valley.

Dr Paul Burgis has been the Principal at the Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) Sydney since 2011.

Linda McNeil has worked in Catholic education for a decade and a half, firstly in the Maitland-Newcastle Schools Office, and now as the Executive Director of the Council of Catholic School Parents.

The moderator for the evening was Kathryn Taylor, the Director of Turning Point Consulting, a Centre of Excellence in Leadership, Change & Wellbeing, Board member of Wellbeing Australia, expert in Education and Wellbeing for ACPi and member of the Global Career Council with ICCI.

We are very lucky to be part of a field where there is so much scope when it comes to professional development seminars, workshops, presentations and conferences. For all present on the evening, the workshop promoted innovative teaching and leadership initiatives, demonstrated educational leadership and at the centre of the entire discussion, the recurring theme of wellbeing and developing the character of students based on their strengths, emerged. When teachers attend professional seminars or workshops, we can choose what topic we would like to unpack or learn more about and then we can return to our schools or classrooms and put that new pedagogical approach into practice. But, how often do we hear first-hand from principals and school leaders? We generally hear from specialists in a certain field or external consultants. But this panel allowed leaders to open up the gates to their school. They encouraged the audience to ask questions about key topics around education today, which were very relevant to all present and no doubt influence the audience members’ future teaching and purpose.

Dr Linda O’Brien referred to her students as ‘the gold behind the gate’ whilst also explaining the struggles that her students face on a daily basis. Darren Cox amazed us with the way that he has built his school from the ground up, waterslide included. He is not only the principal, but the sports coach and mentor to many teachers and students in his care. Darren described the importance of leaders to ‘shepherd’ their staff on their professional development journey. Dr Paul Burgis’ view on pedagogy and his explanation of models of education which have inspired him, allowed us to see his leadership style, underpinned by academic rigour and wellbeing. To conclude, Linda McNeil emphasised the importance of open communication, relationships and collaboration between school and home. A wonderful message.

On Monday 14 May 2018, The Teachers’ Guild of NSW and Gifted Families Support Group Inc. hosted more than 70 educators to their Teach Meet: 7 min Spotlight on Schools and Technology: Enhancing Engagement for Gifted Learners. Thank you to our wonderful and diverse presenters that included:

Simon Harper – Killara High School

Education for a Changing World: Teaching and Learning in an AI World

Matthew Esterman – Trinity Grammar School

The Power of Sharing

Dr Simon Crook – CrookED Science

Engaging Gifted Students in K-6 Science and Technology

John Drake – Parramatta Marist High School

Engagement with Desmos

Christina Alvarez – Australian Film Television and Radio School

Media Lab: Screen Literacy for Schools

Dr Ken Silburn – Glenfield District Office DoE

iSTEM program

Katharyn Reid – St Catherine’s School Waverley

Spelling: A paradigm shift

Cameron Paterson – Shore School

Students are Changemakers

The event was supported by The Teachers' Guild of New South Wales and Gifted Families Support Group Inc.

The Guild Educators’ Network (GEN) provides a place for students and teachers to network, develop ideas and share experiences. On June 14th we held an event focusing on building mentoring opportunities and resilience in challenging teaching situations and delivered by anzuk. anzuk was founded in 2004 by their current CEO Daniel Mundy and Managing Director Ben Goldsmith, initially sourcing teachers from Australia and New Zealand to work in the UK. anzuk places exceptional teachers in vibrant education settings around the world, always helping educators make the right choice. Enjoying personalised support throughout your career journey, whether you are a graduate, returning to work or a community leader. anzuk are extremely professional. Their consultants are great and the Teachers’ Guild of NSW is delighted to have them as a Corporate Sponsor for their Early Career Awards in Teaching.

The workshop sessions on the evening included:

• Simon Withers, NSW State Manager anzuk Education, presented on the Global reach recruitment opportunities to teach in Australia, London, Canada, Asia and California. The session included the process and compliance paperwork that teachers will need to organise for this opportunity.

• Michael Evans, Permanent Recruitment for Sydney Independent Schools, introduced techniques on communicating effectively to display courage through interview prepping. The session included a couple of work documents, interview tips and advice including sample questions to help participants understand the process.

• Dominic Howard’s session incorporated a holistic approach to organisational development to improve the employee experience while simultaneously increasing business outcomes. The session included the areas of leadership assessment and development, organisational measurement, employee engagement, and wellbeing. The session also included the development of a leadership behavioural competency framework to help participants get a better understanding of how to build resilience in challenging teaching situations.  Simple, practical and highly effective advice like this was very well-received by all participants, with very positive feedback being provided at the end of the evening.

The three workshop sessions provided opportunities to evaluate and share best practice in teaching strategies and professional knowledge through practice, improvement and reflection as well as contributing 2 hours of QTC Registered PD addressing Standard Descriptors 6.2.2 and 6.4.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in New South Wales.

The Teachers’ Guild of NSW would like to thank Simon Withers, Michael Evans and Dominic Howard for sharing their passion, knowledge and enthusiasm with all who attended.

On Monday 2nd July, 2018, more than 200 delegates attended the second Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Schools forum organised by MWLP Linking Youth, Teachers’ Guild of NSW and the Australian College of Educators Hills Parramatta. School principals, VET coordinators, teachers, students, work placement providers, training organisations, business and industry representatives were among the delegates at the forum. The aim of the day was to spread the word about the importance of VET in Schools as an excellent career pathway.

There are currently 52,000 students in public, Catholic and private schools undergoing VET training this year.  They gain valuable skills needed to meet skills shortages in the workforce now and in the future.  The VET in Schools courses prepare students for apprenticeships and traineeships and they can even undertake a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship.

The Hon. Karen Andrews, MP is the Assistant Minister for Vocational Education.  She addressed the group via video and said “VET is about real skills for real careers.  The number of apprenticeships is growing, and we need to be better equipped to advise students on VET in Schools options and what successes can follow.”  She then thanked the audience for their passion and dedication to our young people.

There were many more expert guest speakers highlighting the value of Vocational Education and Training and how university is not the path for everyone.

David Collins, Executive Director Training Services NSW said “Vocational training in NSW is a fantastic pathway to a job across so many industries.”  He spoke of the Government’s latest initiative to waive fees for both apprenticeships and school-based apprenticeships. Welcome news to both business and individuals.

Enthusiastic and talented, past and present, VET students spoke of their successes. The value of being paid while you train. The importance of being linked to industry and the likelihood of gaining employment.

Nicholas Capovilla, 2017 SBAT of the Year in Construction explained how a School Based Apprenticeship changed his life. Disengaged from school, advice and support from his Careers Advisor gave him the opportunity he needed. Adam Moore, Corporate Executive Chef, Cerebos Hospitality Industry encouraged all VET educators to be that person who makes a difference in their students’ lives.  Help them identify their passion and guide them.

Feedback from the day was excellent. Angela Cascarino, VET Coordinator and Entertainment Teacher at John Therry Catholic High School said “I believe we teach VET well, but do we align it to future careers?  It’s been great to see all the diversity and pathway options and to network with like-minded people. We don’t get to do this enough in schools. It’s been great.”

MWLP’s CEO, Dr David M Williams AM said “VET in Schools generates trainees and apprentices for industry – ‘the Tradies are coming’ thanks to our outstanding VET teachers and trainers across all education sectors”.

On Monday 13th August, the Guild continued its format for the Guild Research Award Presentation Evening. The evening was an opportunity to give teachers and post-graduate students an opportunity to present their research work to a learned audience in the friendly environment of a school setting.

These awards were created to encourage excellence in research work, and all nominees who participated in these awards received a certificate recognising the nominee's highest standing.

The evening was highly successful with thirteen different research presentations submitted for consideration. All nominees who participated in these awards had an opportunity to compete for the $1000 ‘Guild Research Award’ and $650 ‘The Teachers Mutual Bank Award’ and special certificates that recognise the nominee’s high standing.

This new format and approach to presenting current research to peers in education highlights the positive work being done to ensure education continues to move forward into the future.

Thank you to those Councillors who assisted the President in running the event: Hayley Tuft and Diane Gourlas. Thanks also to our esteemed Judging Panel of:
 

Professor Andrew Martin (Chair) - University of New South Wales

Rick Stevens - Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

Sharrda Shah - Transform Education, Founder and CEO

The quality of the presentations was outstanding and the panel had a long and difficult task in judging the different and varied presentations because of the broad content and diversity of the subject matter.

On Thursday 30th August, 2018, an esteemed panel of guests led a powerful discussion about what high school students and pre-service teachers can expect from a career in teaching. The panellists had a range of experience as well as diverse backgrounds, with all members present gaining great insight into what it means to teach, as well as what it means to lead.

The panelist members were:

• Dr Julie Townsend, Headmistress, St Catherine’s School, Waverley;

• Dr Katina Zammit, Deputy Dean, Western Sydney University;

• Kathryn Taylor – Careers Advisor, Turning Point Consulting;

• Patrick Nam – Music Teacher, Brigidine College, NSW Teachers Guild Member;

• Nicole Leong - Current Macquarie University Student studying Bachelor of Education (Secondary);

• Emma-Lee Poole – Preschool Teacher, Apples and Honey Preschool.

Furthermore, University Stall Holders were also present to answer any questions and network with students. Universities showcased the degrees they had on offer.

Alexi Kayes, who is a Councillor of the Teacher’s Guild of NSW and currently a careers consultant at the University of Wollongong, Sydney Business School facilitated the evening. General questions to the whole panel were around their motivation to become teachers, how they chose what level and type of teacher they wanted to be qualified for and how they chose the right university at which to study. Without a doubt, all panellists agreed that initiative, positivity, kindness, leadership and a passion for curriculum are important for all teachers. Unanimously, the panellists explained that at the heart of teaching are relationships with students, with colleagues and with parents.

Dr Townsend explained the qualities that make the best teachers she has ever seen. She also explained the training she thinks provides a great basis for teachers as well as outlining what teachers who aspire to be principals or leaders within their field need to do in their career. The Early Career Teachers and students explained what they did whilst studying which assisted them in their degree, which was mainly work experience and getting involved in their community. They also described the highs and lows of practicum experiences and placements.

Katharyn Taylor gave us an insight into alternative career paths for teachers outlining both traditional and non-traditional roles.  All panellists shared their responses to the following questions:

• What has been your most challenging and gratifying moment as a teacher?

• What do teachers do that you might not expect/ see day to day?

• What is a day in the life of a teacher like?

• What advice would you give someone contemplating a career as a teacher or starting off on their career as a teacher?

Wonderful questions, wonderful panellists and a wonderful evening. Thank you to all who attended and made it such a success.

On Friday October 26, on World Teachers’ Day, the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales held its 2018 World Teachers’ Celebration at the Concord Golf Club, to award the outstanding professional contribution to education made by a select group of teachers. This evening was a celebration of the amazing, talented, innovative, progressive and essential work that educators do on a daily basis to ensure Australians have access to and receive the best possible education available. These awards highlight the achievements and diversity of the education profession across our State.

This important occasion allows us to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of all our teachers in an increasingly complex, multicultural and technological society.

The Teachers’ Guild of NSW greatly admires the commitment of teachers in enhancing their professional knowledge, improving teaching practice, finding new ways to engage with students, and developing and fostering relationships with the wider community.

Each Year, these Awards Honour an educator of great standing, who also has a Guild Connection. This year we were delighted to honour Mrs Frances Fleeton, Past President of the Teachers’ Guild of NSW who has been actively involved in education for many years as a teacher, administrator and a principal. The inaugural Phyllis Evans Medal was presented to Mrs Frances Fleeton with Rick Stevens delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the Council of Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales.

This year, 208 guests gathered to celebrate the presentation of awards presented by special guests The Hon. (Rob) Robert Gordon Stokes, MP, Minister for Education, Mr Jihad Dib, Member for Lakemba, Shadow Minister for Education and Mr Damien Tudehope, Member for Epping. The event honored 57 worthy recipients across the different sectors and stages of education. Award for teachers in their early years of teaching awards in 2018 have been very popular and we thank the generous sponsorship by “anzuk – providing quality educators since 2004; every way, every day, always” in supporting this award category.

Primary School Division finalists:

Rebecca Flannery, Kincoppal Rose Bay

John Forbes, Blue Mountains Grammar

Mark Gannon, Trinity Grammar School

Brenton Herbert, Lakes Grammar School

The 2018 Primary School Division WINNER was MARK GANNON from Trinity Grammar School.

Senior School Division finalists:

Jason Borg, Georges River Grammar

Allyse Miskle, St John Bosco College, Engadine

Katie Szwecow, De La Salle College, Ashfield

Sara Vassallo, Radford College, ACT

Christie Ward, The Scots School, Albury

Daniel Woolley, Barker College

The 2018 Secondary School Division WINNER was JASON BORG from Georges River Grammar.

The Guild Scholarship Prize is donated by the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales for an outstanding student in the second year of the MTeach program at the University of Sydney.

The 2018 Guild Scholarship Prize WINNER was GIORDI POLI from the University of Sydney. Highly Commended were also awarded to Larissa Cini, University of Sydney and Natalie Leung, University of Sydney

The Guild Research Award and Teachers Mutual Bank Award was offered to a Postgraduate Student and/or Experienced teacher in NSW, who is currently completing or completed outstanding research of direct benefit to classroom teaching. These awards have been very popular as The Presentation Evening attracted an unprecedented number of presentations and the Guild was delighted with the quality of the applications that were presented for consideration. We thank the generous sponsorship from Teachers Mutual Bank – We put you first in supporting this Award category.

The Research Award finalists:

Simon Crook, University of Sydney

Elisabeth Freer, University of New South Wales

Helena Granziera, University of New South Wales

Cherry Zin Oo, University of New South Wales

Conor West, University of Wollongong

The 2018 Teachers Mutual Bank Award WINNER was HELENA GRANZIERA from the University of New South Wales.

The Research Award WINNER for 2018 was ELISABETH FREER from the University of New South Wales.

The Honorary Fellowship (HFTGN) awards continue to increase our Membership profile. We congratulate the following members on being awarded Honorary Fellowship in 2018:

Dr Paul Burgis HFTGN has been involved in education for over 35 years and has held significant leadership roles during this time in both secondary and tertiary institutions. He has been the Principal of PLC Sydney for the last 8 years. Prior to this he was the Principal of Inaburra School for five years. Prior to this, Paul ran the Master of Arts in Education program at St Martins College, Lancaster University. He has held the role of Chair of ISTAA for three years, serving on the Council for eight years in total. He has written chapters for the books 'Teaching Well' and 'Learning Well'. He also supports Katoke in Tanzania and the education of young women in Zimbabwe. Dr Paul Burgis is a worthy recipient of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Honorary Fellowship Award.

Mr John Goh HFTGN has been working in education all of his teaching career. He has been Principal of Merrylands East Public School since 2005 and is recognised as a leader of innovation, creativity and learning at this school. Some of John's major achievements include a Public Education Foundation Harvard Club Australia Scholarship to study at Harvard University in 2013 and being a finalist in the Pride of Australia Awards in 2012. In 2009, John’s school received the Director General’s School Achievement Award and the United Nations World Environment Day Award. In 2014 he was the Recipient of the Australian College of Educators outstanding Leadership in the use of Social Media to engage educators and community. Earlier this year he was awarded the Commonwealth Bank / Schools plus Teaching Award. Mr John Goh is a worthy recipient of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Honorary Fellowship Award.

Dr Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen HFTGN has been working as a classroom teacher in primary and secondary education since 1986 to the present, as well as Tutoring on Teacher Education Programs & Educator at Macquarie University Department of Educational Studies since 2010. Former President and current teacher of the Workshop Art Centre for 32 years and Former President, Secretary, Board Member and Teacher Education Representative.  She currently offers regular Mo-ku (Ink-Splash) Eastern/Western watercolour and drawing classes as well as Workshops during the year. Bronwen co-created Mo-ku (Ink-Splash) with Director and Founder, Trish Wade Quinn. She is also the author of the book Out of the Shadows: Fostering Creativity in Teacher Education. Dr Bronwen Wade -Leeuwen is a worthy recipient of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Honorary Fellowship Award.

Dr Linda O’Brien AM HFTGN has been Principal at Granville Boys High since 2008 and is passionate about the great value of an arts education for young people. She completed a Doctorate of Education at University of Western Sydney about the ways in which a music and dance program can build social cohesion in a school and the success of these programs at the school has transformed the lives of many of the students at the school. She is a Board member of the Board of Trustees for UWS and Director and Founder of Molly McDonald Foundation.  She has been deputy Chairperson of the Sydney Peace Foundation and Founding Chairperson of Yayasan Bali International School. In 2013 she was awarded an AM for service to secondary education, innovative practices and service to the community and in 2014, she was the winner of the Local and Regional Category - 100 Women of Influence. Dr Linda O’Brien is a worthy recipient of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales Honorary Fellowship Award.

The World Teachers’ Recognition Awards citations were presented to outstanding teachers who have made a wonderful contribution to their school in advancing the education profession.

Amanda Wilson, Shore School

Amy Ayres, Northern Beaches Christian School

Andrew Facer, Bowral High School

Anne Mynott, Macarthur Anglican School

Ashlee Koller, Richmond High School

Bahia Malas, Blakehurst High School

Cathy Frazer, Shore School

Celeste White, Chatswood High School

Ching-Wen Hsu, St Mary Star of the Sea College

Cynthia Jobe-Parker, Lakes Grammar School

Danielle De Redder, Glen Innes High School

Helen Rhodes, Shore School

Jacqueline Young, PLC Sydney

James Friend, Shore School

Judy Anderson, University of Sydney

Kate Hooper, Pittwater House

Kathryn Fraser, The King’s School

Kathryn Genthner, Northern Beaches Christian School

Kathryn Pesic, Macarthur Anglican School

Kylie Bowra, St Augustine’s College

Luke Coulton, Thomas Hassall Anglican College

Lynette Colthorpe, Lakes Grammar School

Martin Lobo, St Aloysius’ College

Matthew Driscoll, Thomas Hassall Anglican College

Matthew Esterman, Trinity Grammar School

Nathan Crumbley, Lakes Grammar School

Nigel Coutts, Redlands

Noelene Callaghan, Glenwood High School

Rita Sakr, Tangara School for Girls

Robyn Ross, Brigidine College Randwick

Sarah Hill, Shore School

Simon Harper, Killara High School

Timothy Flaus, Bowral High School

Tracey Rixon, Macarthur Anglican School

Zenobia Katrak, Bowral High School

Matthew Esterman, a recipient of the World Teachers’ Recognition Award commented: “Being recognised with fellow educators by the Teachers' Guild is humbling and enriching. Teachers do not do their work for public recognition. We do not seek the limelight, nor do we equate celebrity with effectiveness in our work. We do not perform in a popularity contest. So, when teachers are recognised for what they do by their peers, it is also a recognition that the profession has value, power and the ability to stand up and have its voice heard on its own terms.” 

Special thanks to Northholm Grammar School students Mitchell Old; Jessica Anderson; Raymond Huynh; Dylan Huynh; Ankya Diancin and Anna Ignatovich in providing the entertainment during the evening. I would also like to particularly thank Marilena Herranz and the management of the Concord Golf Club on their wonderful service during the evening.

These Awards have been benefited from the generous sponsorship by the following Sponsors and stakeholders in supporting the Awards:

• anzuk represented by Daniel Mundy, Simon Withers and Michael Evans.

• Teachers Mutual Bank represented by Conor Kiernan and David Herring.

• MWLP Linking Youth represented by Dr David Williams and Michael Everett.

• Snap Printing Burwood represented by Beena Thankur and Gina Turner.

The Guild congratulates all award recipients for their incredible achievements.

Prior to the Awards evening, a record number of applications for each of the awards presented had been thoroughly screened and interviews had been undertaken to determine the awardees. I wish to express my sincere thanks on behalf of the Teachers’ Guild to all the people who generously gave of their time to ensure these processes were undertaken. Thanks to the members of the Committee who offered to chair the two panels – Kathryn Reid (Primary) and Alex Wharton (Secondary). The Guild also thanks Helen Hughes, Rick Stevens, Lauren Barlow, Tom Mae and Frances Fleeton who helped on panels and by interviewing the candidates.

We finished the year on Thursday, 15th November at Trinity Grammar School, with Sarah Carmen from Sponge Education presenting a talk entitled Depth Studies: “Am I doing this right?” to members of the NSW Teachers Guild in providing new opportunities of teaching and learning outside the classroom. We thank Sarah in providing us all important take-home messages regarding the new depth studies.

As the year drew to a close, the final function was our annual Christmas Celebration, held on Sunday 9 December at the Sheraton on the Park. All Councillors were invited to celebrate another successful year with good food and excellent company.
 

THE AUSTRALIAN TEACHER – THE NEWSLETTER OF THE TEACHERS’ GUILD OF NEW SOUTH WALES

The Australian Teacher – The Newsletter of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is an online publication produced by the Guild and is released two times in the year for our educational community. The newsletter currently has stories about the Guild’s recent events and the content would form a basis for the forthcoming issue of The Proceedings. This year, The Australian Teacher Newsletter released two issues to members in June and November. My special thanks are extended to Ms Hayley Tuft who has worked diligently to modify and prepare material for these publications.

I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Mrs Frances Fleeton who have spent time proof reading the documents for the two issues.

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WEBSITE REVIEW

Ms Noelene Callaghan has continued to work tirelessly to steadily review and update our new website throughout the year, seeking advice from other Councillors. The new look and easier access to sections is now available for our members and other interested educationalists. I wish to personally thank Ms Callaghan for this work and the expertise that she has shown in redeveloping our website and for her continued support of this vital level of communication for the Guild. The Guild in 2019 will look into upgrading its website to consider services like online payments and event registrations.

The Guild’s presence on social media sites – LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook has had a steady increase throughout the year, with a strong following on LinkedIn, in particular. These forums remain a vital avenue for our members to keep in touch with our events, as well as providing a network by which educational comment can be made on current issues.

The Council needs to thank Ms Noelene Callaghan, Mr Alex Wharton and Mr Patrick Nam for the outstanding work in coordinating the new Guild Website / Marketing and Style Guide to unify all Guild publications, including a QR code, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter presence for the Guild. It is hoped that these avenues for the Guild to extend its network, will attract younger members and make communications easier, more efficient and uphold the value of the Guild for a long time into the future.

NEW VENTURES

This year we continued to develop a Sub-Committee structure to enable small working parties to work towards a number of the Guild’s activities. The aim of this initiative was to mentor newer Councillors in the tasks to be undertaken and ultimately involve more Councillors in the work of the Guild. I would like to thank the Convenors – Ms Callaghan and Mr Wharton (Publications/Website/Marketing), Ms Tuft (Proceedings and The Australian Teacher Newsletter Editor) and Mrs Fleeton (Awards).

To enable printing and mail out costs to be budgeted and to guarantee good quality publications, the Guild engaged the services of Snap Printing at Burwood. This has enabled our printing and mail out of various materials to have a professional look at a reasonable cost. I can also confirm an exciting opportunity was arranged with Snap Printing to provide a further 25% discount off all printing for the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales as a corporate sponsor until the end of 2019.

I would like to thank CEO Daniel Mundy, Mr Simon Withers and Mr Michael Evans from anzuk.education in continuing their corporate sponsorships of the Awards for Teachers in their Early Years of Teaching until the end of 2020. The Guild appreciates the support of our corporate sponsors for our awards in ensuring their brand is recognised and valued with our events in terms of service and delivery.

In 2018, the council endorsed an exciting new opportunity for the council to play a pivotal role in income growth to support the Guild in this important strategic direction in 2019. This will be an exciting opportunity to enhance the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales income generation, reputation and image within the education and business community by developing and implementing strategies to build on existing relationships, and develop new relationships, with corporate contacts. The Events and Corporate Relations in 2019 will be led by Diane Gourlas from her background experience she will oversee the current objectives of its current role.

• Develop an interesting Events Calendar that will attract a good to large audience (according to the event);

• Provide events covering a wide range of topics;

• Oversee the staging of each event;

• Ensure the financial viability of each event and the Events Calendar as a whole.

Memorandum of Understanding between the GUILD / GFSG Inc.

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales supports families and educators of gifted children and has engaged to work closely with Gifted Families Support Group Incorporated in raising awareness, support and professional learning needs of teachers of gifted children within our state community. During Gifted Awareness Week Australia, we celebrate Acceptance: Diversity & Equality as we look forward to a future of continued collaboration through our Memorandum of Understanding.

In 2019, the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales is delighted to host their events and Council meetings at the Concord Golf Club, 190 Majors Bay Road Concord, which is centrally located in the Inner West. The Concord Golf Club is close to Sydney Olympic Park and a convenient drive from the City. The Clubhouse and gardens will provide an intimate and picturesque setting for our functions with the highest quality food and immaculate club facilities.

In 2019, we will phase in our new postal address for the Guild:

The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

PO Box 649 Moorebank NSW 1875

As another year of challenges and change begins to become a reality, and as the changes to the Australian Curriculum and Teacher Accreditation becomes a greater reality for us working in schools, the Teachers’ Guild must keep in touch with current issues if we are to remain in the forefront of professional associations. The Guild remains an important influence, embracing the new while retaining the core values on which it was founded, and emboldens members to always uphold and advocate the motto Doceo Ut Discam – I Teach That I May Learn. That is our charter and what we endeavour to deliver to our membership.

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”   Benjamin Franklin

Yours sincerely,

Dr Frederick Osman FTGN FACE FRSN FAIP JP

President | The Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales

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The Council of the Teachers’ Guild of New South Wales thanks

Fellows and Members for their support