NATURE ART OUTDOOR CLASSROOM, LOBETHAL PRIMARY SCHOOL
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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOUTH AUSTRALIAN ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL PARENT COMMUNITIES INC.
VOL. 44 NO. 1 | FEBRUARY 2021
NATURE ART OUTDOOR
CLASSROOM, LOBETHAL
PRIMARY SCHOOL
PRINT POST APPROVED 100000239
BEN TEMPERLY YEAR 7 TO HIGH SCHOOL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
SYSTEM PERFORMANCE
YEAR 7 TO HIGH SCHOOL,
DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION
Preparing to welcome your child to high school in 2022 Engaging with your new school
This year marks the start of a new phase for our education There may be opportunities for you to connect with your
system, as we finalise our preparations to welcome your year 6 child’s new high school before next year. Schools will generally
or year 7 child to high school in 2022. have open days, information sessions or principal tours for
prospective families to learn about the unique programs,
Schools are working incredibly hard to ensure they are prepared
systems and offerings of the high school.
for the move of year 7 to high school. As a department, we are
making sure that your school has all the support they need to As the situation with COVID-19 continues to change, schools
make this transition smooth and successful for you and your will operate in line with the latest SA Health advice, which
child. may mean alternate and innovative ways to engage. This might
include activities such as virtual tours and online webinars.
It is a unique year, as year 6 and year 7 students will for the first
I encourage you to explore how to engage with your local
and only time end their primary school journey together.
high school by visiting their website or social media pages, or
We want your child to have a positive experience in their final contacting the school directly.
year of primary school. We understand the importance of rites
The move of year 7 to high school is a big change for you and
of passage, such as graduation ceremonies, and our primary
your child. 2021 is going to be a busy year of preparation by
schools will do their very best to make this a memorable
our public education system and schools across the state. As a
occasion for both year 6 and year 7 students.
parent, you can feel confident in knowing that we are working
Enrolling in high school for 2022 together at every level to make the move a success.
This year, families of year 6 and year 7 students will both
Stay informed about Year 7 to High School
be applying for and enrolling in high school through the
Visit www.education.sa.gov.au/7toHS regularly for updates.
department’s statewide transition process.
Your school will continue to share information about what this
You will receive details from your primary school early this move will mean for your child, so keep a look out for year 7
year about how to apply for and enrol in your local public to high school updates in your school’s newsletter, website or
high school, so I encourage you to keep an eye out for this key on your school’s Facebook page. You can also connect with the
information. If you are unsure of which high school zone you project team by emailing Year7toHS@sa.gov.au.
live in, you can use the ‘Find a school’ tool on the department’s
website at www.education.sa.gov.au.
Parents Say
Why not write an article – short or long, formal or informal - for the magazine? We love to hear from parents and staff about activities,
programs and events that are happening in our preschools and schools.
Deadlines for 2021 are 29 January; 9 April; 16 July; 8 October
Send your contributions to magazine@saaspc.org.au and for more information email or ring me on 0419 814 045.
Judith Bundy, Editor
2 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021
PRESIDENT’S SAY JENICE ZERNA
PRESIDENT
It is hard to fathom that the school year is in progress already for Education and the Chief Executive of the Department for
and that the weeks are already passing by. Welcome everyone to Education, allowing us to raise issues and concerns, ensuring
Parents Say for the year and to the annual education journey. that the parent voice is heard at the highest level. It is vital that
we continue this role for the benefit of all our children and
Hopefully 2021 will be more settled and like what we know as
students.
normal.
We look forward to welcoming some new members with
Parents Say
fresh ideas and outlook on education. If you would like more
Parents Say magazine is for parents (and for anyone else
information or have any questions about the work we do or
who may be interested!) – to help keep you informed with
the role of the positions available, please contact us via phone,
information and updates from the Minister, from the
email, or the contact form on our website.
Department for Education, from agencies and organisations
that are a vital part of the education arena, and from schools Affiliations
and prescshools. Do contact us if you have an article you would The SAASPC affiliation invoice for 2021 has now been sent
like to share – up to 1000 words and photos. And if you find out to all preschools and schools. Please keep an eye out for it
the magazine interesting, please pass it on to others; it can also at your parent group or governing council; and if you haven’t
be found on our website at www.saaspc.org.au. affiliated previously please consider joining us for a small fee.
Affiliation fees help support our work and supplement the
Involvement in our association
small operating grant that we receive from the Minister for
In our busy world, sparing time to take on roles outside of work
Education. If you would like to join us as a personal member
and home life can be difficult; but if you have an interest in
then you can do that too.
education and would like the opportunity to be involved in a
voluntary capacity at a state level, we would love to hear from For further information regarding SAASPC, or to obtain a
you. We have positions available for executive officers and copy of the affiliation invoice, visit our website www.saaspc.
committee members. org.au, which also has other great information for parents and
volunteers. And don’t forget to like us on Face book or follow
As the year progresses and things return to normal, SAASPC
us on Twitter.
will, if the circumstance allow, again meet with the Minister
South Australian Association of School Parent Communities (SAASPC)
GPO Box 2126 Adelaide SA 5001 tel 8272 4640 freecall 1800 724 640
email info@saaspc.org.au www.saaspc.org.au we are also on Facebook and Twitter
The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Association; nor does the Association necessarily endorse products/services advertised
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 3
THE HON
CLEARLY ARTICULATED
JOHN GARDNER MP VOCATIONAL PATHWAYS FOR
MINISTER FOR EDUCATION
OUR STUDENTS
Much work is being done by government to reform vocational and knowledge. The capacity of school students to meet
education, industry engagement and career education in schools the requirements of some VET courses is dependent on the
so that all young people are well prepared for their future lives student’s access to work placements to perform tasks at the level
and careers. Many of the growing industries such as cyber required by the qualification
security, space, community services and health require people
Identifying the appropriate VET courses suitable for school
with vocational qualifications
students requires a level of understanding of the VET system,
The South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) is the alignment of pathways to labour market opportunities and
a contemporary qualification that offers over 100 subjects, the student’s ability to meet the expected competency. Hence
specifically designed for senior secondary students. It can the strong government focus on improving career education
accommodate the needs and learning styles of all learners and so that students, their families and the community at large can
develops knowledge, skills, capabilities and other attributes that understand the options available and make informed choices
will connect students to industry sectors and other pathways. about their program of learning at school and their post-school
With this and vocational education and training (VET), all pathways .
young South Australians can expect to achieve their SACE.
In order to provide the best outcomes for school students
Success may look different for every student. Designing the and address the issues in relation to VET, the government is
right program of learning for students in senior secondary implementing the VET for School Students policy. VET is
school is vital in positioning them to achieve their future being repositioned as as a pathway as valued and prestigious as
career aspirations and transition into their desired post-school university. Through this policy a select number of VET courses
pathway. that are appropriate for school students will be offered through
schools. Registered Training Organisations that are cognisant of
VET is a great option for students wishing to pursue vocational
the delivery of quality VET in a schooling setting will partner
career pathways. It is a recognised form of learning within the
with schools to provide these courses.
SACE. Noone pretends that is the best option for every student
and students do not need to rely on VET to achieve their This approach removes complexity and guess-work for schools.
SACE. It gives students and families the confidence that VET delivered
to school students is high quality and offers a pathway to a
The Australian VET system is diverse. It provides training
job outcome. Industry and employers value VET delivered to
for students of all ages and backgrounds with over 1,450
school students as a viable solution to their workforce needs.
qualifications, 1,300 skills sets and 750 accredited courses,
ranging from certificate I to Advanced Diploma. Industry We wish all students success in the year ahead and know that
has a central role in determining the quality of VET as key many parents will be delighted to see that the voices of parents
stakeholders in the development of training packages which and industry groups are reflected in the new VET policy and
outline the skills needed in the workforce. options.
Not all VET courses are suitable for school students. Unlike
curriculum delivered in schools, VET is a competency-
based system, designed to deliver workplace-specific skills
4 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021
DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION’S NEW WEBSITE
Improved school and preschool profile pages, a better search After entering an address in the finder search bar, as well as
experience and a fresh, modern look are the main features of which level of schooling and the enrolment year, the search
the redesigned Department for Education website, which now function finds which schools zoned to that address and whether
groups information by audience type to make navigation easier. there are any unzoned schools in the area.
Communications Director Leah Manuel says extensive user The search results are clickable links that take the user straight
testing and close analysis of data from the previous 12 months to the school’s profile page, featuring contact information,
has helped ensure high demand information is now easier to enrolment statistics and what investments are being made to the
find. “We’ve used the insights gleaned from the 1.6 million school. More school data and annual reports are also available at
visitors and nearly 7 million page views over the past 12 months the click of a button, making navigation simple and clear.
to create a more intuitive user experience,” Leah says.
Like so many features of the new website, it’s about taking
“We identified the highest traffic pages from the old website the guesswork out of education and making things simple to
and put them right at the top of the new home page to provide navigate. “We want to make sure that this website design is
easy one-click access. The department’s strategic plan is also 100% user friendly, and we know a lot of our users are parents.
prominently placed on the homepage, so people can see how In our news section, we’ll be posting articles aimed directly at
we’re keeping ourselves accountable. parents offering updates in our schools or the department, as
well as tips for navigating the school year,” Leah says.
“We have also grouped information by audience type to make it
easier for people to get to the information they need. “We’ve recently published articles on top tips for parents and
year 12s on embarking on that all-important final year of
“That’s a big step forward from the previous website which
school, as well as getting reception ready ahead of the school
offered a more traditional menu set up by subject type, which
year starting.
made sense from an agency point of view but didn’t reflect how
the public navigates information.” “We want to support parents to be equipped with the things
they’re looking for answers on, and the things they might not
On the new website information is grouped under 5 headings,
know to ask about.”
with ‘parents and families’, ‘schools and educators’ and
‘students’ each getting their own menus. The ‘working with us’ Leah says one of the key considerations in the redesign is
menu provides information on employment, volunteering and accessibility, particularly for those with a disability. “We are the
providing services and ‘the department’ offers access to policies, Department for Education for everyone and it’s important that
strategies and other corporate information. our shop window demonstrates that commitment. Everything
from the font and use of images to the writing style and layout
A key feature under the ‘parents and families’ heading is the
has been carefully designed to ensure equity of access.”
school finder tool.
Leah says the redesigned website will continue to be refined
Most high schools in metropolitan Adelaide are zoned, and a
based on feedback and insights from user data. “The website is
number of primary schools are zoned, so it’s important to know
a continually evolving product and we’ll keep looking at ways
what is available in the local area before thinking about where
we can make the user experience better. We’re keen for people to
to enrol your child. “We’ve put the school finder front and
spend some time looking around and let us know what they like
centre in the parents and families menu, because we want to
and where they think it can be improved.”
take the confusion out of where people can send their children
to school,” Leah says. Feedback on the new design can be sent to education.web@sa.gov.
au or by using the feedback tool at the bottom of every page.
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 5
THE ARTS AT LOBETHAL PRIMARY SCHOOL
At Lobethal Primary School connection, community and We have used the bush school setting at Lobethal Bushland Park
collaboration are our focus. Collaborating and connecting with to run a number of two day art making immersion retreats for
school staff, students and families, as well as Arts professionals, our gifted and committed students. This work was exhibited in
and our local Arts and Heritage organization ‘Fabrik’, we the community, engendering a sense of pride and a real world
provide a variety of Arts learning outcomes for our students outcome for our students.
from Reception to Year 7. Exhibitions, community murals, art
The Arts are valued at Lobethal Primary and our Visual Art,
retreats and cross-curricular projects and performances have
Music and Drama programs reach every student in the school.
enriched our students learning in all curriculum areas and have
Open-ended, with scope for differentiation and flexibility, the
deepened our students’ connection with Visual Art.
curriculum has space for whole of school priorities such as
Lobethal Primary has a very strong focus on learning in visits to the Fabrik gallery for exhibitions, and working with
nature, with a bush school program for the junior primary professional artists. In 2020 we worked on a whole school
students. Taking children into nature to make art expands their community artwork with South Australian Living Arts festival
understanding of the natural world as well as being an abundant Artist in Residence, Louise Flaherty.
source of inspiration. Making art in nature is a soothing and
Louise Flaherty’s practice focuses on documenting significant
healing pastime for our students, helping children to process
plant species in her local area and she works widely with
trauma and develop resilience. It is also a powerful means of
community groups. She has undertaken various community art
expression and storytelling, and art making is often the most
projects around Adelaide and at the Womens’ and Children’s
natural language for our youngest students and those with
hospital. After the 2019 Cudlee Creek fires our school was
special needs.
looking for ways for our students to record the recovery and
regrowth in our local area. We were initially unable to take
students to our bush school setting at Bushland Park as it
was devastated by the fires. Louise worked with the students
within the school, helping them to draw the plants of the area
and recording their positive memories of nature, as a way of
reconnecting with the recovering landscape. Her work was the
great fit for our philosophy and came at the perfect time for
our community as we continued healing from the bushfires. If
you would like to hear more about the project, this is a link to
a podcast interview that Louise and I recorded with the SALA
festival’s Steph Fuller late last year https://www.salafestival.com/
sala-podcast/.
6 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021
In 2020 I was honoured to receive the Ministers Arts Award
for public primary school art teaching. I was awarded $5000 to
spend on travel and professional development. I plan to use the
money to deepen my understanding of how to engage students
with nature through art making, connecting art practice with
the landscape.
COVID restrictions permitting, the central aspect of my
travel and learning will be a visit to Bundanon, artist Arthur
Boyd’s former home in New South Wales. Bundanon caters
for immersive experiences making art in nature and hosts both
educational groups and artists’ residencies. Bundanon is a place
of rich cultural, environmental and indigenous heritage, and
the landscape provides a place of both context and subject of art
making in many forms.
Along with visiting Bundanon, I plan to visit the National
Gallery and National Portrait Gallery in Canberra and on doing
other workshops in New South Wales with a focus on landscape
and working outdoors.
In 2021 we will again be working with the Fabrik Arts and I will be sharing my learning when I return from New South
Heritage team and Artist in Residence, Claire Wildish. This Wales with a professional learning workshop at Lobethal
year’s project ‘Hidden Treasures’ will be exhibited during Bushland Park. The workshop will take a similar form to
the ‘Dream Big’ festival and has resilience, wellbeing and our previous student Artist Retreats with drawing, painting
community engagement at its heart. We have been very and sculpting outdoors The park’s regeneration has become a
fortunate to be able to work with practicing artists who bring symbol of resilience for the local community. I am very much
a wide array of skills, experience and new perspectives to their looking forward to passing on my passion for making art as well
work with our students. as strategies for teaching art outdoors to my fellow teachers and
Professional learning communities, both within and outside colleagues.
of our school provide a way for staff to work collaboratively JANE MANT
and collegially to plan and reflect on student learning. We ART TEACHER, LOBETHAL PRIMARY SCHOOL
have integrated visual art learning with the literacy priorities
within the school. Meeting regularly throughout the term, we
plan, implement and reflect on units of work and projects that
prompt oral language development, inferring, visual literacy
and higher order thinking skills. Our staff work reflectively, in
collaboration with our Principal Toni Burford, using the AITSL
teacher standards as a framework for professional improvement.
My own art practice informs my teaching. As well as painting
in my studio at home, I have attended workshops at the Art
Gallery of South Australia, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens,
Central School of Art, Fabrik Arts and Heritage and Kakadu
National Park. I have also exhibited regularly since 2016. I
gain a huge amount of inspiration from visiting exhibitions,
attending artists’ talks and visits to artists’ studios. In 2019
a small group of local Hills art teachers formed our own
professional learning community and through this we share
ideas, strategies and tools for our work within the classroom.
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 7
PROFESSOR MARTIN WESTWELL
SACE UPDATE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
SACE BOARD OF SA
I wanted to take a few moments of my first column in Parents These are the behaviours or capabilities that will help the Class
Say of 2021 to reflect on the year that was. For every one of of 2020 and future students thrive in their chosen pathway.
us, 2020 was a year like no other. The COVID-19 pandemic
Every student is entitled to develop these capabilities during
turned the traditional classroom setting on its head as students
their secondary schooling, regardless of whether they go to
and teachers adjusted to new ways of working to continue the
university, TAFE, or into employment. It’s not just knowledge
learning.
and skills that’s important, it’s how students apply their
As parents, we had to deal with new and emerging challenges knowledge to ‘get stuff done’, as some employers have said to
such as students learning remotely at home, turning the kitchen me.
table into a learning space. Students grappled with new
Employers are looking for critical and creative thinkers,
challenges and new ways of working, as well as the disruption of
individuals who can problem-solve and work collaboratively to
many rite-of-passage Year 12 events.
achieve a common goal. They are looking for students who can
I am so proud of how the Class of 2020 reacted to these use their personal enterprise.
challenges to not only continue their learning, but to thrive
To meet this challenge, the SACE Board is working closely
in their learning. Each of the 15,119 students who completed
with employers, universities and TAFE during 2021 to develop
their SACE in 2020 have charted their own unique pathway
a set of capabilities that will support SACE students to thrive
to success and used the SACE to connect them to their own
in the next step of their lives, particularly in an uncertain and
future.
changing world.
I was also so proud of the way schools and teachers adapted to
These capabilities, together with their knowledge and skills,
continue the learning for their students, to encourage them not
will better support our future students to have the ability and
to give up in the face of uncertainty, but to know that every bit
confidence to ‘get stuff done’, and prepare them to rise to the
of learning would be valuable and be valued in the SACE.
challenge.
DID YOU KNOW YOU SAASPC HAS BROCHURES ON –
Parent teacher interviews
Parental engagement in student learning
Starting school
Transition to secondary school
Information sessions for parents
Affiliated committees and parent groups
you can find them at
https://www.saaspc.org.au/publications
8 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021
FLEXIBLE OPTIONS CAN UNLOCK
LEARNING POTENTIAL
Young people can find traditional education tough for many
reasons. High schools are quick paced learning environments;
and large class numbers mean they can be noisy and
overstimulating for some.
For those at risk of disengaging from education altogether,
Flexible Learning Options (FLO) can be a great option.
Baptist Care SA’s FLO program offers flexible support, onsite
counselling, small class sizes and a range of programs to engage
and upskill young people.
“We have a new parent engagement model that is about
empowering parents to be co-decision makers in the therapeutic
design of the program,” explains FLO Manager Nerissa Tiss.
“This involves us giving parents/caregivers the opportunity
to express their wishes for their child and to learn about the
expectations of the program. We stay in regular communication
throughout their young person’s time in FLO - working
together with students and their parents and caregivers.”
Some of the young people who engage with FLO are still
engaged in school but struggling, while others have almost
completely disconnected. There are many reasons why they
benefit from additional support and flexibility.
Adroa* and his family arrived as refugees and the language
barrier meant he was at risk of failing high school.
“We organised many meetings with Adroa’s school, his family
and translators so that everyone was aware of what needed
doing and how he was tracking,” explains FLO Team Leader
Madeline Keatley.
Adroa worked hard, receiving 1-1 support in his subjects challenges of the pandemic. Outcomes included completing
through FLO, as well as weekly case management. He was also SACE, reconnecting with mainstream school, engaging with
connected into our Art Attack Program to explore his passion community learning centres, Vocational Education and Training
for art. (VET) courses, employment, and the Duke of Edinburgh
awards as well as other short courses.
He completed year 12 and a TAFE course concurrently, and
there was a huge family celebration when he learned that he If you would like to learn more about how Baptist Care SA’s
had passed both! Adroa became the first in his family, not only FLO program could support your child, please visit our website
to complete high school, but to apply to study at university in at https://baptistcaresa.org.au or contact 8209 5000.
2021!
*not his real name
The program expanded throughout 2020, as students and
their families sought additional support to help navigate the
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 9
10 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 11
PARLIAMENT OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
BRING CIVICS AND CITIZENSHIP LEARNING TO LIFE WITH A VISIT TO PARLIAMENT HOUSE.
Why visit?
Understanding South Australia’s system of Governance and
how Australia’s democracy works are not only critical learnings
for primary and secondary school students, but for all South
Australians. Who is your local state MP? How many Members
of the Legislative Council represent you? What level of
government do you approach about an issue you are concerned
about? What are some ways you can influence the law-making
process in SA?
Visiting the Parliament of South Australia is an important step
towards improving civics and citizenship understanding, and for
engaging with our democracy.
Parliament House is the home of South Australia’s legislature,
the primary law-making body in South Australia. The South
Australian Parliament consists of the House of Assembly and
the Legislative Council – two democratically elected Houses of
Parliament for the representation of South Australian people.
School tours include
Parliament House is at the forefront of civics and citizenship
• a visit to Old Parliament House to look at the original
education, with curriculum aligned tours and experiences
home of the Legislative Council (and House of Assembly
designed for all types of learners. The Parliament’s programs
from 1857);
cover
• viewing the current House of Assembly Chamber,
• the structure and procedural elements of Parliament (how
discussing the layout of the Chamber and the law-making
many Members are in the Parliament, who they represent,
process;
how a law is made)
• when possible, a Parliamentary-style debate in the House
• the participatory elements of Parliament (how you can
of Assembly Chamber;
work with your MPs/MLCs, make a submission to a
• a walkthrough of the Parliament Research Library – a
Parliamentary committee or sign a petition); and
private library providing Members of Parliament with
• the historical elements of Parliament (where we’ve
support and research services;
followed traditions from the UK, the building’s
• viewing the current Legislative Council Chamber,
architectural features, women’s voting rights, historical
discussing the operation of a bi-cameral (two house)
Members).
Parliament and the unique membership of the Legislative
School tours Council;
Primary and secondary school students can visit Parliament • a discussion of women’s voting rights in South Australia;
House for a tour with their local MP or a Member of the and
Legislative Council. Bookings are taken directly through the • taking in historical portrait artistry and sculptures of
offices of Members of Parliament. South Australia’s program prominent historical political figures.
is unique, allowing students to put a face to the concept of an
For more information about making bookings for school
elected representative, and to ask their Member questions about
groups visit: https://www.parliament.sa.gov.au/Visit/
what work they are doing for their local area or the State.
Tours#SchoolTours
12 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021Special programs
The Parliament of South Australia offers special programs
throughout the year for school students, such as the SA Schools
Constitutional Convention (year 11) and Using Hansard for
Research (secondary). New programs are offered subject to the
Parliamentary sitting calendar.
Accessible tours
For information about special programs for school students Parliament House is pleased to offer a variety of custom tour
contact: events@parliament.sa.gov.au programs, including AUSLAN interpreted tours and tactile
Family visits tours. To register interest in a custom tour of Parliament House
Parliament House is open for free tours on non-sitting weekdays contact: events@parliament.sa.gov.au
at 10am and 2pm. Families are welcome to walk in and attend More information
– no bookings required. Our guides all work within the House The Parliament of South Australia belongs to the people of
of Assembly or Legislative Council and the tours cover building South Australia. The more interactions people have with the
features and history, and also procedural information based on Parliament the better it becomes. The Parliament supports all
questions and needs of the group. South Australian residents to understand how to contribute and
For more information about public tours visit: https://www. access Parliamentary processes. Beyond student programs, there
parliament.sa.gov.au/Visit/Tours#GeneralPublic are professional development programs for teachers, resources
for the general public on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/
School holidays
channel/UCs2P4izFb3Ue8yKK-TTwcCA and more.
During the school holidays the Parliament of South Australia
provides participating Childrens’ University students with a If there is a way the Parliament can support student learning,
learning passport stamp for attendance at a public tour. Other please query about any of the programs above or contact
school holiday programs, such as children’s Parliamentary events@parliament.sa.gov.au
debates, open subject to Chamber availability. Note: COVID-19 measures may impact programs – current
For information about special programs for school students COVID-19 notices are available online: https://www.parliament.
contact: events@parliament.sa.gov.au sa.gov.au/How-Do-I/Access-Parliament
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 13FRIENDS OF SPRINGBANK SECONDARY COLLEGE: FROM ‘GRASS
ROOTS’ TO HELPING SAVE A SCHOOL
Who knew you could save a school by What’s App? to find their ‘voice’. Friends of Springbank Secondary College
swung into action, organising a press conference that afternoon
Rewind to early 2020 and the global pandemic was creeping
to oppose the review. Standing at the gates of the school,
its way across the world. One Wednesday afternoon midway
families told their stories – that they valued the ‘little school
through term one, a member of the Friends of Springbank
that could’ and would fight to save it.
Secondary College received a phone call.
The campaign
Did they know, they were asked, that the Minister for
In the following months we ‘dug deep’, using our lived
Education would visit Springbank Secondary College the next
experience, connections and passion to reshape the community’s
morning and announce a State Government review that would
understanding of the school and highlight its vital role in
– almost certainly – lead to the closure of the school that has
supporting students to flourish socially, emotionally and
stood on the corner of Daws and Goodwood roads in Adelaide
academically.
since 1965.
When the pandemic’s dark grip reached Australia and
With a $10 million upgrade promised to Springbank Secondary
everyone, including schools, was sent into lockdown, parents
College and repeated assurances the school would be invested
suddenly juggled homeschooling children with working and
in, the news was a shock. Quiet, panicked phone calls were
campaigning.
made between parents and community members. But until
it was confirmed by the Minister’s visit, the news could not On top of its long running Facebook page, Friends launched
spread fast enough. Sadly the next morning many unsuspecting Twitter and Instagram pages. In lieu of face to face meetings,
students arrived to television journalists asking them if they we held weekly Zoom campaign catch ups and started a busy
knew their school could be shut by Christmas. What’s App group that pinged day and night with suggestions.
It was the media story of the day and the parents/carers, Throughout the process everyone supported one another
students, teachers and the local community knew it was time to flourish. We encouraged each other to draw on our
14 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021strengths and do as much as we could to manage with other There was one overarching rule to which everyone agreed. The
commitments. From writing submissions to the review panel, to campaign had to be positive. It had to focus on the reasons why
telling our stories via video on social media; people were brave. the community felt so strongly about saving the school. And it
had to tell people’s stories from the heart.
When COVID19 restrictions eased, parents and grandparents
began popping into local events to connect with politicians. A pivotal moment came when Friends’ convened a rally on
They overcame nerves to speak with the media – sometimes the steps of Parliament House where we supported students
very late at night when talkback radio was open – and ran and families to tell their stories. Two students, who later won
a frantic marketing campaign on social media that reached Minister for Education Awards for their advocacy, spoke
thousands of people in South Australia, and amazingly, publicly, inspiring the broader community to understand how
nationally and internationally. Our ‘voice’ was heard. important their school is.
The small army of volunteers – some who had never before felt There were many other stakeholders who supported us on
the need to speak out on issues – launched an online fundraiser the journey to save Springbank Secondary College, including
and petition, and wrote to anyone and everyone they could parents of other local high schools and our local neighbourhood
think of who might have an influence on the review. group, who were unwavering in their support. Helen Connolly,
the Commissioner for Children and Young People, provided a
Students, parents, community members and grandparents held
‘voice’ for the students and wrote a pivotal submission to the
pop-up ‘wobble boarding’ protests and chalked positive slogans
review panel (ccyp.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/20-
on the footpaths outside the school, the electorate offices of
05-26-Submission-on-Springbank-Educational-Review.pdf ).
the local member for parliament and the Minister, and the city
office of the Department for Education.
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 15A win for the community
It was in the final days of term two that Minister Gardner
announced he had decided to retain Springbank Secondary
College and that the government would go ahead with investing
in a $10 million upgrade to provide our students with world-
class education in a modern setting.
We were overjoyed. Our four long months of positive
campaigning had been worth it. The parents/carers, community,
teachers and students’ wealth of skills, knowledge and expertise
was invaluable throughout the review process. It was the
cumulative efforts of all that resulted in a positive outcome.
Embracing the power of community
Saving Springbank Secondary College was the start of a new
chapter. Our endeavours have not stopped since and Friends
of Springbank has kept working to engage with new families
entering the school and enhance perception in the broader
community.
As strong advocates for parent/carer and community Our take home message is embrace the power of community,
involvement, we provide regular social opportunities where reach out to a fellow parent /carer and support one another, as
families can connect outside of school. We fundraise for we are ‘all in this together’.
improvements at the school and have started the year off
We encourage you to book a tour of the school. With its
with raising more than $5000 for new water stations for our
STEM and Arts focus and basketball academy, Springbank
basketball stadium.
Secondary College in beautiful Adelaide offers a small, caring
We are also busy sourcing grant opportunities and most recently environment. Community is at the heart of our open zoned
supported a submission for a large grant in partnership with school, which is home to the Sturt Basketball Club, South
Basketball SA through the Office for Recreation, Sport and Australian Light Opera Society and Books for Lesotho.
Racing for major upgrades to the Springbank Sports Centre,
Visit us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/
which is used by more than 2000 people a week for basketball.
FriendsOfSpringbankSecondaryCollege/
Friends of Springbank Secondary College focuses on Friend-
raising, Fun-raising and Fund-raising. We are a true ‘grass roots’
organisation. We know firsthand the importance of parents and
carers in education as reflected in our journey of 2020.
SA SCHOOL TERM DATES
2021 27 January – 9 April 27 April – 2 July 19 July – 24 September 11 October – 10 December
2022 31 January – 14 April 2 May – 8 July 25 July – 30 September 17 October – 16 December
2023 30 January-14 April 1 May-7 July 24 July-29 September 16 October-15 December
16 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021DIY SCIENCE VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE
LOOKING FOR SOME COOL SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS TO TRY AT HOME?
Silly Science with Simon is a new YouTube channel for kids,
with 36 (and counting) fun science activities that you can try at
home!
The channel has a huge range of science experiments, covering
bi-carb soda and vinegar volcanos, acid-base indicators,
homemade lava lamps, invisible ink, air cannons, optical
illusions, slime and a whole lot more. Each video goes for 3-5
minutes and includes a list of items you'll need, step-by-step
instructions and an explanation of the science.
The creator behind the channel is Simon Blacket, a 2012
Chemistry and Mathematics graduate from the University of
Adelaide. His goal is to inspire and excite the next generation of
scientists and share his passion for science with them. Simon's videos have been featured by Questacon, Kids In
Adelaide and on the National Science Week website. Since
So why is the word 'Silly' a part of the channel name? Simon starting in 2019, his channel has received over 1000 subscribers,
believes that kids learn better when they enjoy the topic. By and his videos have been watched over 125,000 times.
adding humour (and the occasional explosion!) kids keep
coming back each fortnight to see the latest video. There's even To find his channel, search for "Silly Science with Simon" on
a few moments that will give parents a chuckle too. YouTube, Facebook or Instagram. You won't be disappointed!
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 17SA’S 16 BEST ADVENTURE AND NATURE PLAYGROUNDS
BY CLAIRE LOCK AND JODEE DELLOW | REPRODUCED WITH THE KIND PERMISSION OF NATURE PLAY SA
Run through the belly of a giant Red-bellied Black Snake. Peer More things to do: Morialta is a much-loved spot for creek
for pirates from a Crowsnest. Search for megafauna fossils and adventures, picnicking, hiking, mountain biking, and rock
crawl in caves. Spot kangaroos whilst defending a towering climbing. In winter, walk to three iconic waterfalls or find
wooden fort. shelter in Giants Cave. Listen for frogs and spot wildlife like
kangaroos, koalas, tadpoles, yabbies, and birds like Honeyeaters
South Australian kids are reaping the rewards of major
and Thornbills. Find more Morialta nature play ideas here
investment in nature playspaces and adventure playgrounds,
– https://natureplaysa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/
bringing back opportunities for risky, imaginative, and fulfilling
NPSA-September-2017-Morialta-Web-Version.pdf.
play for all ages and abilities. And with many of SA’s best
playspaces set in national parks and natural reserves, a simple
trip to the playground quickly catalyses curiosity and free play
in a wilder world.
Discover why #ItsBetterOutside these school holidays with our
pick of South Australia’s adventure and nature playgrounds.
—
COVID-19: Remember to maintain hand-washing hygiene and
social distancing in playgrounds, and stay home if you’re unwell.
—
2. KITES AND KESTRELS ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
Nature Play SA recognises the expertise and collaboration of (ADELAIDE)
nature play landscape architects, designers, construction teams, Play the day away at Cobbler Creek Recreation Park.
Aboriginal custodians, local communities, and other experts to Test out the flying fox, nest towers, and natural elements
create SA’s nature playgrounds. like sand, creeks, and stepping stones in the bird of prey-
ADELAIDE NATURE PLAYGROUNDS themed playground. Pack the bikes to discover the Park’s pump
1. MUKANTHI PLAYGROUND (ADELAIDE) track and purpose-built riding trails.
Mukanthi (meaning ‘celebrate and play’ in Kaurna language) is Where: Corner of Bridge and Smith Roads, Salisbury East
a multi-award-winning playspace featuring physical challenge,
Kaurna culture, sustainability, and connections to local place. Distance from Adelaide: 20 km north
Five areas – Frog Island, Eagles Perch, Great Snake, Birds Nest, Parking and amenities: Shaded picnic tables, BBQs, toilets and
climbing boulders and trees – invite children to explore the car parking
landscape and connect with nature.
Accessibility: Accessible parking, toilets, and picnic area
Where: Morialta Conservation Park (Stradbroke Rd, Woodforde) available at the main entrance carpark.
Distance from Adelaide: 10 km northeast More things to do: Learn about local plants and animals at
Parking and amenities: Parking, toilets, BBQs, shaded tables the nearby Birds, Bees, and Butterflies Garden and Colour of
and benches available Nature display. Spot kites and kestrels in Pedlars Paddock and
look for lizards sunning themselves. Find out about bush tucker
Accessibility: Accessible car parks are located at the Stradbroke and Kaurna culture on the 2.4km Mai Tappa Circuit. Discover
Road parking area, along with two accessible toilets at the more bushwalks and things to do at Cobbler Creek here –
playspace https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/find-a-park/Browse_by_region/
Adelaide/cobbler-creek-recreation-park#see-and-do.
18 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 20213. WILFRED TAYLOR RESERVE (ADELAIDE) Marino Rocks Greenway. Try orienteering in the wetland, using
Southern Adelaide can rejoice with the opening of this new $2.2 the maps available from Orienteering SA.
million playspace, offering adventurous and inclusive play to
5. MITCHAM RESERVE (ADELAIDE)
all ages and abilities. Kaurna culture, the site’s farming history,
Pack a picnic and prepare to be enchanted at this creek-
and Hills-to-Beach themes feature as key design elements, with
side playground in the southern foothills. Children can flow
Junior and Older kids play areas providing abundant active,
between play areas using a small footbridge. Discover elements
imaginative, and sensory play opportunities.
such as an elf tower, balancing and climbing logs, carvings, and
Where: Wheatsheaf Road, Morphett Vale references to local culture and history.
Distance from Adelaide: 26 km south Where: Corner Old Belair Road and Norman Walk, Mitcham
Parking and amenities: Parking, sheltered picnics, toilets, Distance from Adelaide: 8 km
BBQs, fenced Junior play area
Parking and amenities: BBQ’s, picnic tables, gazebo, toilets, and
Accessibility: Inclusive elements include basket swings, a parking
bucket-seat flying fox, raised sensory gardens and sand play, a
Accessibility: Disabled access toilets, access to double slide
vertical xylophone, and a wheel-chair accessible carousel
More things to do: Meet friends for a BBQ or celebration.
More things to do: Explore the broader Wilfred Taylor Reserve
Play ball games on the open grass. Explore Brownhill
(https://www.onkaparingacity.com/Around-me/Parks/Wilfred-
Creek Recreation Reserve – bushwalk the Wirraparinga Trail or
Taylor-Reserve) along walking and riding paths. Follow
find 300 year old River Red Gums. See what you can learn
Christies Creek, taking in ancient Red Gums and birdlife like
about local history (Brownhill Creek was a Kaurna camping,
Lorikeets and New Holland Honeyeaters. Play ball sports on
hunting, and gathering place and the Reserve was the site of the
grassed areas. Experience a family train ride two Sundays a
village green in colonial times).
month (when re-opened following COVID-19 restrictions).
4. OAKLANDS RESERVE (ADELAIDE)
Spend a few hours or the whole day discovering Oaklands
Reserve’s three unique areas. Climb, balance, and find adventure
in the nature playground; explore Oaklands Wetland, brimming
with wildlife and native plants; or ride the skate park and more
in the popular Recreational Plaza.
Where: Oaklands Road, Oaklands Park
Distance from Adelaide: 13 km south
Parking and amenities: Ample parking and toilets facilities
6. JERVOIS STREET RESERVE (ADELAIDE)
available
Meet friends at this much-loved, multi-award-winning nature
Accessibility: Accessible toilet and parking available playground and reserve. Discover water play, stepping logs
More things to do: Pack a towel and change of clothes for and rocks, and timber features, including a wooden caterpillar
water play in the nature playground. Look for wetland named ‘Jervie.’ Giant butterfly-shaped shade structures and
animals and insects like ducks, spoonbills, fish, frogs, and a fully fenced space makes this reserve popular with young
dragonflies. Ride your bike in the Recreation Plaza’s mini- families. Older children and sports lovers are also well catered
circuit or go further afield on the River Sturt Linear Trail or for.
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 19Where Jervois Street, South Plympton Parking and amenities: Public toilets, parking, kiosk in peak
periods. Park entry fees can be paid at the gate or online
Distance from Adelaide: 7km
Accessibility: Accessible carparks and toilets. Learn more via
Parking and amenities: BBQ’s, picnic tables, sheltered areas,
the Park’s Accessibility Map (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/files/
off-street parking
sharedassets/parks/parks/adelaide-hills/belair-national-park/
Accessibility: Disabled parking and toilets belair-np-accessibility-map.pdf )
More things to do: Pack the bikes to ride the pump track and More things to do: Build a cubby using long fallen sticks on
path around the reserve. Enjoy a scratch match or shoot hoops site. Look for geocaches near the Playground and throughout
at the 3-on-3 basketball court and netball ring. Kick a footy or the Park. Choose from the many biking or bushwalking trails,
soccer ball on the open grass area or discover the chess and table including the Waterfall Hike to Belair’s Lower and Upper Falls.
tennis tables (BYO equipment). Look for kangaroos, emus, koalas, kookaburras, and echidnas.
7. ST KILDA ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND (ADELAIDE) Find more nature play ideas here – https://natureplaysa.org.
Epic adventures and imagination call at this award-winning au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/NPSA-Belair-NP-July-2017-
playground on Adelaide’s northern coastline. A $3.5 million Web-Version.pdf.
revamp has transformed this iconic SA destination with
elements like a towering hill-top castle, wooden pirate ship by
the water, giant slides, thrill-seeking flying foxes, rope obstacle
courses, climbing frames, swings and much more.
Where: 470 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda
Distance from Adelaide: 28 km north
Parking and amenities: BBQs, shaded picnic tables, large lawns,
toilets, ample parking
Accessibility: Liberty swing and wheelchair accessible slide
More things to do: Look for resident and migratory shorebirds 9. MARSHMALLOW PARK (ADELAIDE)
like the Red-capped Plover and Curlew Sandpiper at Located in the greenery of the Adelaide Parklands, this
the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary- Winaityinaityi playspace engages children with multiple water play features,
Pangkara. Discover Adelaide’s old trams at the nearby St Kilda climbing frames, Boulder Island, metal jellyfish sculptures,
Tramway Museum. Explore Barker Inlet mangrove forests along and traditional play equipment like slides, swings, and other
the St Kilda Mangrove Trail boardwalk and Interpretive Centre. apparatus. Expansive Moreton Bay figs, lawn, and fencing make
this an ideal place to picnic with family and friends.
8. BELAIR NATIONAL PARK ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
(ADELAIDE) Where: Glen Osmond Rd, Adelaide
Generations of memories have been made at Belair National Distance from Adelaide: In CBD
Park’s Adventure Playground, cherished for its vast tunnels,
a giant wooden fort, curious wildlife, creek, and bushland. A Parking and amenities: Toilets, seating, shelters and BBQs,
culture of cubby building has grown in recent years with the parking on Glen Osmond Road (note time restrictions apply)
annual Cubby Town event by Nature Play SA and National Accessibility: Accessible BBQs and toilet
Parks and Wildlife Service SA attracting thousands of families.
More things to do: Hop across rocks in the nearby creek bed
Distance from Adelaide: 13 km and Oxbow playspace. Pack a basketball or tennis rackets for use
20 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021on the Park courts. Explore the Adelaide Parklands by bike on More things to do: Discover the cafes and local shops of Victor
the Parklands Trail. Take a short stroll to reflect on the beauty of Harbor. Stroll over the causeway to Granite Island and marvel at
nature in the Japanese-style Adelaide Himeji Garden. giant boulders, the home of Little Penguins, and views from the
clifftop sculptural trail. Watch for whales along the Encounter
REGIONAL NATURE PLAYGROUNDS Marine Park Whale Trail from May to October. Climb the Bluff
for sweeping coastal and island views.
10. BRISTOW-SMITH RESERVE (FLEURIEU PENINSULA)
Located by the banks of the Murray River, this Goolwa
playspace inspires connection with local history and the
environment through elements like a 10-metre fishing boat,
creek and water play, hand-carved wooden native animals,
logs, and an upgraded local beach (suitable for swimming and
splashing).
Where: Barrage Road, Goolwa
Distance from Adelaide: 85 km south
Parking and amenities: Parking, picnic spots, shelters, BBQ Image: Mike Moore
facilities, toilets
Accessibility: An accessible swing is available for wheelchair 12. WAIKERIE WATER AND NATURE PLAY PARK
users (RIVERLAND)
Located on Wakerie’s riverfront reserve, this new nature
More things to do: Lengthy lawns at Bristow-Smith make
playground is an idyllic spot to picnic and play. Take in river
it ideal for kite flying. Ride the Encounter Bike Way to
views while enjoying grassy open spaces and rolling hills, lots of
Tokuremoar Reserve, an environmental site of significance to
water play, climbing, a flying fox, and sand play.
the Ramindjeri/Ngarrindjeri people. Visit the local townships
of Goolwa, Middleton, or Port Elliot. Discover landscapes and Where: 7 Leonard Norman Dr, Waikerie
sites featured in Storm Boy in the Coorong National Park. Distance from Adelaide: 182km
11. GEORGE T FISHER NATURE PLAYGROUND Parking and amenities: Bench seating, undercover picnic tables,
(FLEURIEU PENINSULA) toilets, car parking, BBQ and shelters
Set by the foreshore and Norfolk Island pines, Victor
Harbor’s Nature Playground invites adventurous and Accessibility: Inclusive play equipment coming soon
imaginative play with tree trunks and ropes for climbing, large More things to do: Enjoy water activities like swimming,
granite boulders and rocks, a giant sandpit, rope balancing fishing, kayaking, and boating. Camp or stay in regional
bridge, and sculptures of locally iconic animals like the accommodation. Take in the Murray River and floodplains
Australian Pelican and Little Penguin. views along the 2km Waikerie Rotary Clifftop Walk. Admire the
Where: Flinders Parade Victor Harbor Waikerie Silo Art by Jimmy Dvate and Garry Duncan (‘Healthy
River, Healthy Community’ theme). Bushwalk or watch birds
Distance from Adelaide: 83 km in the environmentally significant Hart Lagoon.
Parking and amenities: Street parking, toilets, BBQs, picnic 13. BOWMAN PARK PLAYSPACE (MID NORTH)
tables, one fenced play area Nestled next to a creek, River Red Gums, and bushland, this
Accessibility: Access ramp for wheelchairs and prams Crystal Brook playspace is a captivating new creation for
children, local community, and visitors to cherish.
PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021 | 21Wooden climbing and balancing structures, stone tunnel, bee More things to do: Stop at the playground on a road trip
hotel, carvings, and rustic farming treasures celebrate local place to Mount Remarkable National Park. Picnic on the Apex Park
and encourage curiosity, active and imaginative play. lawns or visit Rocks Reserve by the Balaklava River. Go for a
roll in the local skate park or admire the community garden. In
Where: Bowman Park Road, Crystal Brook
warm weather, cool down at the swimming pool.
Distance from Adelaide: 200km north
15. FOSSIL HUNTERS PLAYGROUND (SOUTH EAST)
Parking and amenities: Picnic and BBQ facilities, public toilets Located at the World Heritage Naracoorte Caves, this playspace
available connects children with the region’s geological and Aboriginal
Accessibility: Circulating wheelchair accessible path history through features like caverns, tunnels, dig pits, fossils,
and giant Wonambi Rainbow Snake. Other natural play
More things to do: Stop for a play on the family camping drive elements include balancing logs, climbing structures, limestone
to Mount Remarkable or Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. boulders, and a serene bushland setting.
Visit the local town of Crystal Brook. Investigate the Bowman
Park Gardens to smell Yellow-scented Gums and admire local Where: 89 Wonambi Road, Joanna
flora. Explore the Heysen Trail. Camp in RV at Bowman Park Distance from Adelaide: 330 km southeast
(donations appreciated for Park maintenance).
Parking and amenities: BBQs, picnic tables, toilets, and parking
Accessibility: Accessible playground featuring 360-degree access
path, wheelchair accessible fossil and sand play table, picnic
tables allowing for wheelchair clearance
More things to do: Learn how the 800,000-year-old Naracoorte
Caves acted as pitfall traps and predator dens. Discover
Australia’s ancient megafauna and fossil remains. Step back
in time at the Wonambi Fossil Centre or Cave tours. See the
rare Southern Bent-winged Bat via infrared red camera and
learn about its plight for survival.
Image: Mike Moore
14. SOUNDS FROM THE GROUND (MID NORTH)
Engage the senses in this new playground brimming with
natural elements and musical play. Children can scramble
logs to a tree hut, ride or walk the guitar-shaped circuit, and
experiment with a wooden xylophone, metal bongo drum, and
interactive sound wall.
Where: Apex Park (corner of May Terrace & Wallace Street,
Balaklava) Image: Claire Lock
Distance from Adelaide: 96 km north
16. RAILWAY LANDS NATURE PLAY AREA (SOUTH EAST)
Parking and amenities: Parking and grassed picnic areas (shops Inspired by local heritage, this Mount Gambier playspace is part
in the township) of an award-winning project transforming a historic railway area
22 | PARENTS SAY FEBRUARY 2021You can also read
