What's Hot October

President’s Report:

This edition of What’s Hot comes just days out from our Annual Conference – “Together, We Walk Forward.” Inside, you’ll find key information to help you prepare for the conference, along with several important updates on the broader work of our Association.

The conference team has assembled an outstanding line-up of presenters designed to build your leadership capacity, reignite your passion, and support your wellbeing. Annabel Crabb will help weave together the conference themes to maximise the impact of your learning. Like many of you, I’m particularly looking forward to hearing from Cathy Freeman – 25 years on from her unforgettable performance at the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Conference delegates will shortly receive an email with details on how to download the Cvent app from the Apple or Google stores. The app will be your go-to source for conference information, schedules, and updates throughout the event.

We are pleased to welcome the Hon. Courtney Houssos MLC, Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning, who will officially open the conference, and Murat Dizdar, who will share an update on key work impacting our schools and leadership roles.

I’m also looking forward to reconnecting with our life members and celebrating the outstanding contributions of colleagues through our annual awards.

Our Association’s Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday afternoon. PPCs are reminded that each council is required to have two voting delegates present, and I encourage all conference participants to attend this important session.

Don’t forget our Expo Day on Tuesday, where sponsors and Department teams will showcase products and services that support school programs. It’s a great opportunity to connect with providers who add real value to your work. I encourage you to bring your SAM or Business Manager, your SAOs, your executive team – and of course, yourself.

Having seen the conference team in action over the past months, I want to acknowledge their dedication and hard work – all while continuing to lead their schools. This year has brought additional challenges as the team navigated numerous requests and questions from the Department.

A huge thank you to Kylie Donovan, Cameron Upcroft, Vicki Harris, Daryl McKay, Karen DeFalco, Louise Stone, Kylie Watts, Michelle Sarjana, Polly Palaitis, Mark Pritchard, and Scott Sanford. You’ll spot them throughout the conference in their black polo shirts – please take a moment to thank them personally. Additionally, I acknowledge the Sofitel Wentworth Events Team and Deb Claxton for their work in support of our conference and our team to ensure a high-quality event.

I also acknowledge our sponsors. Over the years, we’ve ensured that our partners provide quality products and services that genuinely support public schools. They are committed to delivering value for money and supporting our collective work. Please take the time to visit each sponsor during the conference.

Connection is a central part of conference life – the joy of renewing friendships, strengthening professional relationships, and forming new connections with colleagues from across the state. Research consistently shows the importance of collegial support in sustaining leadership wellbeing and effectiveness. Building your professional circle strengthens that support network.

Finally, a reminder that we are a professional association, and we ask that the Department continues to treat us as such. The Department supports our conference by approving principals to be out of school and by funding delegate participation and accommodation. We, in turn, must ensure we are fully engaged, conduct ourselves professionally at all times, and deliver value for the government’s investment in our development.

Enjoy term 4 and I look forward to seeing many of you all at the conference.

Michael Burgess
President

Annual Conference Key Information:

1. Suggested Packing Guide

Business Casual https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/article/a-guide-to-business-casual-attire-with-examples

Smart Casual https://www.seek.com.au/career-advice/article/your-complete-guide-to-smart-casual-work-attire

2. Your Actions at Conference Matter

• Sign on using the QR code each day – this is an important audit requirement
• Attend all sessions of the conference – the extended day supports your approval for accommodation
• Be conscious of your social media posts and how they may be interpreted
• We have introduced short wellbeing breaks – stand up, stretch but stay close and settle quickly (of course you can duck out to the toilet)

3. Stewart House

Stewart House is our Association‘s charity partner. During conference there will be a Stewart House raffle with some great prizes. Please take time to purchase some tickets.

For the conference dinner on Thursday night there will be some ‘glow up’ fundraiser items to purchase. These can be purchase prior or on the night. Bring a five (or $10) note.

Updates on Our Work:

While our upcoming Annual Conference is a major focus, our advocacy and partnership work continue across a range of important areas. Below are just a few areas we have been pursuing:

Early Childhood Education and Care Safety

We have been consulted on the Government’s plans to strengthen safety in early childhood education and care settings. We have fully supported efforts to improve safety for all children and provided detailed feedback to help shape implementation. Our advice has included ensuring community-based, not-for-profit centres are supported to meet the costs of compliance, and that public school preschools receive the necessary guidance and resources to implement these important changes.

Parent and Community Partnerships

Work continues with the Department and key stakeholders on developing a strengthened Parent and Community Partnership and Code of Conduct Guide. We are hopeful that this work will be completed and released for 2026. Alongside this, we continue to provide input into legislation designed to help schools manage the very small number of parents and visitors whose behaviour on school sites is inappropriate or unsafe.

Support Classes and Disability Resourcing

Our Executive and key reference groups have continued to raise member questions and concerns about the establishment of additional support classes. We have been working closely with the establishment team, Deb Summerhayes, and Secretary Murat Dizdar to resolve specific issues, many of which have already been addressed. More broadly, we continue to advocate for resources that meet the full range of student needs and for specialised staffing within support settings.

Voluntary School Contributions

Voluntary contributions have again been an area of focus. Our aim is to avoid the usual annual debate about so-called “school fees” as we head into 2026. We have had the opportunity to restate our position in consultations with the Department and other stakeholders with diverse views. We anticipate updated advice to schools early in Term 4.

The updated advice will guide us on items for which schools can seek parent contributions. It will also contain suggested wording for correspondence to families and I encourage you to use these proforma letters.

Key reminders for principal

• All family contributions are voluntary.
• Schools must support families who are unable to meet costs.
• Consultation with the school community is essential when determining requests for contributions.

National Update:

At a national level, the NSWPPA has contributed feedback to the National Teacher Workforce Strategy, particularly highlighting the urgent need for specialist teachers in support settings. We have also strongly supported the Government’s decision not to register graduates of the new one-year teaching conversion course, as we believe it does not meet the high standards expected of initial teacher education.

The Federal Government has also established a working group to design the new Teaching and Learning Commission, which will replace AITSL and ACARA. While the working group currently consists mainly of departmental and union representatives, we have raised our concern about the lack of school-based voices. Following our advocacy, the Minister has directed the group to engage with principal associations, teachers, and other school staff in its work — a positive step toward ensuring the profession’s voice is genuinely heard.

The National Rapid Review into School Bullying has now released its report, outlining eight recommendations for action. In NSW, a separate state review is also underway. We await the findings so that we can work collaboratively with government on actions that build community understanding, strengthen prevention, and support the comprehensive work schools already do every day to keep students safe.

World Teachers’ Day- Friday 31 October:

Next Friday, 31 October, is World Teachers’ Day Australia. As the Principal Teacher in your school, you embody the essence of leadership through teaching. On behalf of the NSWPPA, thank you for the incredible work you do — leading, teaching, and inspiring your school communities every single day. We take our hats off to you!

Vale Larry Micevski:

Larry Micevski, recently retired Principal from Northlakes PS, passed away last week after a short illness. Larry spent part of his career in Broken Hill and also in Griffith.

Larry always had a smile and a joke for his colleagues. He had a strong moral purpose of giving students the boost they needed to improve their lives. He was a great supporter of colleagues and the NSWPPA.

Since retiring Larry regularly shared his joy of spending time with his grandchildren. 

Larry was laid to rest in Wollongong on Monday 20th October.

He will be missed

Vale Larry

Caring for Teachers’ Voice – Deputy President, Greg McLaren:

Voice Fatigue and Injury: What It Is

Upon entering the Department many of us remember experiencing personal and/or professional development with voice care for when we teach and interact with students.

This article may be passed on to your teaching colleagues.

It did not appear obvious that our intranet had advice on this important topic hence the detailed research by NSWPPA. When asking EduChat to summarise the article it appeared to lose its accuracy.

When people use their voice extensively such as teachers and us as Principals who speak for many hours during the day we may experience voice fatigue or injury. Research shows that teachers are three to five times more likely to experience voice problems than the general population (Google). Voice fatigue means the voice becomes tired and strained, while injury refers to damage to the vocal cords or the voice production system. This can lead to symptoms such as:

• Soreness or discomfort in the throat
• Hoarseness, where the voice sounds rough, breathy, or weak
• Changes in pitch, like the voice becoming higher or lower than usual
• Complete loss of voice (also called aphonia)
• Difficulty projecting the voice, making it hard to be heard clearly

These symptoms can affect a person’s ability to work effectively and cause discomfort or pain.

What Causes Voice Fatigue and Injury?

Voice problems usually happen because of a combination of different factors, including:

1. How the Voice Is Used:

• Speaking loudly or shouting for long periods
• Speaking in noisy environments where the voice must be raised
• Using poor speaking techniques, such as straining or not breathing properly
• Talking continuously without rest

• Rooms with poor acoustics or high background noise
• Dry or dusty air that irritates the throat
• Poor ventilation or temperature extremes

• Emotional stress or anxiety can cause muscle tension in the throat and neck, making the voice tired more quickly
• Physical fatigue from long work hours without breaks

• Smoking, which irritates the vocal cords
• Medical conditions like hay fever, acid reflux (where stomach acid irritates the throat), sinus infections, or allergies
• Dehydration, which dries out the vocal cords.

Because these causes often happen together, it’s important to address all contributing factors to protect voice health.

How the NSW Department of Education Supports Voice Health

The Department is responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace for school staff. This includes doing what is reasonably possible to reduce risks that could cause voice problems. Some key points are:

• Ensuring schools have good acoustics and environments that support voice use
• Providing information and training about how to care for your voice
• Supporting staff to manage workload and reduce vocal strain.

Responsibilities of School Staff

Teachers, Principals and other school staff also have a responsibility to look after their own health and safety. To prevent voice problems, this means:

• Using proper voice techniques, such as speaking clearly but not shouting
• Being conscious of your posture and breathing when speaking (back straight, head up and chin level with the ground)
• Taking regular breaks to rest the voice
• Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding smoking and managing any health conditions that affect the throat
• Reporting any voice issues early to the principal or designated person so support can be provided
• Consciously suppressing the urge to cough or clear the throat as coughing may be a symptom of an acute throat infection.

Shared Responsibility for Safety

Maintaining a safe workplace is a joint effort. Everyone including staff, Principals, health and safety representatives need to work together to:

• Identify situations or environments where voice fatigue or injury could happen
• Assess how serious these risks are
• Put measures in place to control or reduce these risks (for example, improving classroom acoustics, scheduling breaks, or providing voice care resources).

What Is Voice Care?

Voice care means paying close attention to how your voice feels and sounds. Key signs to watch for include:

• Hoarseness or a rough, croaky voice
• A husky or weak voice
• Changes in the normal pitch or tone
• A dry, burning, or scratchy feeling in the throat

If you notice these signs, it is important to:

• Reduce voice use and rest the voice as much as possible
• Use strategies like drinking water, avoiding irritants, and practicing good breathing
• Seek advice or support early to prevent the problem from getting worse.

Preventive Strategies

To avoid/minimise developing voice problems, staff can:

• Use microphones or voice amplification when available
• Improve posture and breathing techniques to support the voice
• Use methods of behaviour management, which do not involve yelling or loud talking
• Organise classrooms to reduce background noise
• Stand in a place in the classroom that will make it easiest for the students to hear you without straining your voice
• Use gesture and other non-vocal signals to give instructions such as clapping your hands to gain attention
• Take regular breaks to rest the voice
• Maintain good overall health through hydration, diet, and avoiding smoking or vaping.

By understanding how voice fatigue and injury happen and taking steps to manage risk, Principals, teachers and other staff can protect their voice health and continue working effectively and comfortably.

Compiled by Greg McLaren using Victoria & Queensland Education Depts.etal.

School Principals - Private Interest Declaration (PID) and Online Change to Declaration Process - Deputy President, Greg McLaren:

A message from NSW DoE Fraud and Corruption Control Unit:

We advise of a change to departmental policy which will require school principals to make an annual declaration of their private interests commencing from Term 1 2026.

This change follows recommendations made by the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) under Section 14, Serious and Systemic Corruption Risks: Education Sector – Public Schools, and is intended to further strengthen the department’s integrity framework. To support the change, Clause 7.1 of the department’s Code of Ethics and Conduct (Code), which currently applies only to Public Service Senior Executives, will be revised to include school principals. The Code is publicly accessible at https://education.nsw.gov.au/policy-library/policies/pd-2004-0020-01.

Clause 7.1 of the Code currently requires senior executives to declare any private interests that have the potential to influence, or could reasonably be perceived to influence, their professional duties, decisions, or advice given. From term 1 2026, after making any initial declaration, Principals will have a continuing obligation requiring, at minimum, an annual declaration. By way of example, a Principal would need to declare familial relationships at the school and interests in businesses that have, or may have, a commercial relationship with the department in the future.

It is important to note that this new annual declaration obligation is in addition to, and does not replace, the existing obligation of all staff to declare conflicts of interests set out in Clause 5.7 of the Code.

Online declaration via SAP

All departmental staff are now able to make their declarations for conflicts of interest, gifts, benefits, or hospitality, private and secondary employment and private interests online through SAP, replacing the paper based process. Further information including introductory videos can be accessed through the SharePoint page Integrity-related declaration system. See attachment 1. Staff were advised of the change via the Staff Noticeboard on 20 July 2025 with a go live date on 25 August 2025.

Next Steps

We understand that changes like this can raise questions, and we warmly welcome your feedback or any queries you may have. Our aim is to work constructively with you and provide support through this transition.

A PowerPoint presentation with speaking notes has been provided which gives an overview of the policy change and the on-line declaration process. See attachment 2. If you would like more information or wish to provide feedback, please contact me via FraudandCoruptionControl@det.nsw.edu.au.

 Article prepared by DoE Fraud and Corruption Control Unit unedited by NSWPPA

End of School Year Gifts - Deputy President, Greg McLaren:

As the end of the school year approaches, it is important to remain informed about the DoE’s expectations and requirements regarding the acceptance of gifts, benefits, and hospitality. Christmas and the end of the school year often deservingly bring increased offers of appreciation from colleagues, vendors, or school community members.

Before accepting any gift, benefit or hospitality, school staff must carefully evaluate whether the offer meets the DoE’s ‘acceptance criteria’ clause 1.1 Acceptance criteria. These criteria are designed to ensure that acceptance does not compromise, or is perceived to compromise, one’s impartiality, integrity, nor compromise the Government’s or the DoE’s reputation. Key considerations include assessing the value of the gift, the context in which it is offered, and whether it could be perceived as influencing your or the gift receiver’s role in the DoE.

To assist in making consistent and high-integrity decisions, employees are encouraged to use the GIFT guide. This guide provides clear advice on when it is appropriate to accept gifts or hospitality and outlines steps to take if you are unsure. Following the ‘GIFT guide’ GIFT guide helps ensure your actions as a Principal align with the ‘DoE’s Code of Ethics and Conduct’ Code of ethics and conduct. This code especially in 5.10 (gifts, benefits and hospitality) sets out our collective commitment to ethical behaviour, transparency, and accountability.

“Failing to adhere to these procedures or accepting improper gifts, benefits or hospitality may amount to misconduct and/or serious wrongdoing as defined by the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2022 (NSW)” -DoE Code of Ethics and Conduct.

Remember, when in doubt, it is always best to seek advice from your DEL or relevant DoE officers to avoid potential conflicts of interest or breaches of policy. It is recommended you send an email seeking advice to have as a record of how you reached a decision as the Principal. 

Compiled by Greg McLaren using various DoE Risk Office links

NSW CER Information – Deputy President, Norma Petrocco:

The NSW Centre for Effective Reading (NSW CER) is a joint NSW Department of Education and NSW Health initiative supporting primary-aged rural and remote students with complex reading needs. Eligible students from government and non-government schools receive up to 12 months of targeted intervention.

With hubs in Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Manly, and at the Child Development Unit, Children’s Hospital Westmead, the NSW CER provides in-person and online assessment and intervention through a multidisciplinary team of specialist teachers, psychologists, and speech pathologists.

This wrap-around support assists students, schools, and families on their reading journey. Visit cer.schools.nsw.gov.au or contact Principal Serena McLean at nswcer@det.nsw.edu.au or 9687 0377 to check your school’s eligibility.

Referral period for Semester 1 2026 is now open. Submissions close Term 4, Week 3: Friday 31 October, 2025   

Selective HS and Opportunity Class Applications and Test Placement Dates – Deputy President, Norma Petrocco:

• Applications open Thursday 6 November 2025 to Friday 20 February 2026
• Selective HS Placement Test - Friday 1 May & Saturday 2 May 2026
• Opportunity Class Placement Test - Friday 8 May & Saturday 9 May 2026.

Please ensure you make your students and school community aware of the application process dates and test dates. Please keep evidence of newsletter articles etc as appeals by parents/carers may be upheld if they are not informed of these dates and given the opportunity to apply. 

Conference News - Conference SC Chair, Kylie Donovan:

Conference is just around the corner, and we are so excited! The team has been working tremendously hard, and this conference promises to be another amazing professional learning opportunity for principals.

I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge my team for their dedication and thank them for the work they have done leading up to conference, and for the work they are still to do next week. You are greatly appreciated.

• This year will be the last one we have the expo, so take the opportunity to bring your SAM or business manager next Tuesday to see our sponsors and get some great deals for your school and community.
• The new and relieving principals’ lunch is an initiative by the Leadership Standing Committee. It is a great time to meet other new principals and the PPA executive. The event will be held on Thursday 30^th October for the principals attending conference. You will receive a voucher when you register.
• There are a few additional rooms at Sofitel available under the $388 cap that were part of our group booking. If you are interested, contact Sofitel Wentworth group reservations, who will assist. Please use the code - #2510PPAPOA
• Conference app: download the Cvent Events app. This will be live from Monday and will have just about everything you need including the program, times, the speakers and their bios as well as details of events.
• Vicki Harris and Daryl McKay will send an email to everyone who is registered which has a whole bunch of FAQs. If there are any other questions you have, reach out to PPA exec, the conference team, or other principals who have been to conference before and we will assist you.
• Most importantly: you need to bring cash for the Stewart House raffle and the light up flashy things that we always have available to purchase at the dinner. All proceeds go to our charity of choice, Stewart House.

See you all next week!

Professional Learning Term 4 Updates- PLO, Drew Janetzki:

Professional Learning

As we head into the final term, I wanted to share some updates on our professional learning programs and upcoming opportunities. I know Term 4 is already packed with reports, transitions, and planning, but there are a few things worth flagging now.

Art of Leadership 2026: Bookings Now Open

The 2026 Art of Leadership Program is now open for enrolments. Following a record year in 2025, with more than 320 participants across 11 programs and 2 Masterclasses, the Art of Leadership continues to be the NSWPPA's signature professional learning program for school leaders.

In 2026, the program expands to 12 programs and 2 Masterclasses, delivered across both metropolitan and rural NSW. Each 6-day program is delivered in two 3-day phases and draws on powerful research, practical skill development, and experiential learning. Participants also receive 45 hours of NESA Accreditation at Lead Level.

If you've been considering it, metropolitan spots tend to fill first. Further details are available at nswppa.org.au/art-of-leadership, with direct bookings via Cvent: https://cvent.me/DM1e3Z 

The Anxiety Project: Reaching 113 Schools and 47,000 Students

I recently recorded a podcast with psychologist Michael Hawton, Director of Parentshop, about The Anxiety Project. We unpacked how this whole-school initiative is transforming the way teachers, parents and children understand and respond to anxiety. Michael explained why resilience is learned through challenge, not avoidance, and how small, consistent language shifts in classrooms are changing culture and confidence across school communities.

You can listen here: Michael Hawton:  Preparing the Child for the Road: Inside The Anxiety Project with Michael Hawton: 

Schools implementing The Anxiety Project report students articulating their feelings more clearly and teachers using more consistent, supportive language. The program, designed by principals and psychologists, is helping primary schools across NSW tackle rising anxiety and build resilience.

Take the next step to support your school community:

Watch a short video highlight of the Student Wellbeing Day with Professor Patrick McGorry, AO: Video link:

Express your interest via EOI link: 

For more information or to arrange a presentation, contact Hayley Cravigan (gm@parentshop.com.au) or Rob Walker (rob.walker@det.nsw.edu.au), or visit nswppa.org.au/the-anxiety-project.

Thank You to Our PPCs

A sincere thank you to all the PPCs who have engaged in the GAP analysis and Professional Learning this year. Your commitment to making data-informed decisions is driving our schools forward, and it's reflected in the strong engagement we're seeing with our professional learning programs.

Our world-class Professional Learning programs, including Art of Leadership, The Anxiety Project, Clarity Essentials, REAL Conversations, Tough Conversations for school leaders, performance conversations and the Flourish Movement, align directly with supporting you in your journey as Public Education Principal, supporting your school community. We encourage you to continue to invest in yourself and your leadership teams, as well as promote these opportunities within your networks.

FranklinCovey Principal Academy: Thursday 13th November

Join FranklinCovey Education and the NSW Primary Principals' Association for a one-day workshop designed to strengthen school leadership.

Led by Brooke Judd, Senior Director of Global Product Excellence, this session will introduce the Whole-Person Paradigm and the 4 Roles of Great Leaders™—modeling, pathfinding, aligning, and empowering. You'll gain practical tools to lead with vision, empower staff, and align school systems for impact.

The workshop is three weeks away. If you've been considering it, now's the time to register.

Date: Thursday, 13th November
Book via: https://cvent.me/nE2kwO 

Looking forward to seeing you at Conference.

What do I need to declare?? – PSO’s Lyn Davis, Geoff Scott, Phil Seymour

Principals are reminded that all gifts with a value over $50 must be declared in SAP in ESS.  This includes prizes you may win from sponsors or if you enjoy sponsors’ hospitality. 

With Christmas approaching it is also timely to advise staff they must declare gifts with a value over $50. These gifts will then be recorded centrally.

Also in ESS staff should declare a Conflict of Interest with a management plan of how the conflict of interest will be managed should their child attend the school they teach in. There is a sample plan for this matter. Whilst the example is for Principals, all staff should also follow this model.  The Conflict of Interest and the Management Plan is then approved by the Principal (for staff) and by the DEL (for Principals).

NSW Curriculum Key Messages - Megan Kelly - Executive Director, Curriculum:

We're excited to share the latest curriculum updates and opportunities, supporting you to deliver on the NSW Curriculum Reform and Our Plan for NSW Public Education.

Introducing the Lesson Library

The Lesson Library is a new online platform for NSW public school teachers that gives easy access to the department’s syllabus-aligned curriculum resources. This workload reduction initiative supports lesson planning by offering sequenced units, curriculum resources and student-facing lesson materials, including PowerPoint slides and assessments, written by NSW teachers, for NSW teachers.

The first release includes Term 4 mathematics resources for Years 3 to 10, with content releases for all key learning areas from Kindergarten to Year 12 to be added over time. Access the platform via My Essentials in the Education portal. For further information, refer to Introducing the Lesson Library.

New approaches to English and Mathematics units

Curriculum has begun releasing revised English and mathematics K–6 units, starting with mathematics Years 3–6 units for Term 4 on the Lesson Library. The units reflect consultation with NESA, AERO and CESE, and align with our statement on explicit teaching and Our Plan for NSW Public Education.

The new units are for optional implementation in Term 4 and can be adapted for a school’s individual context. Please share feedback through the Lesson Library platform as you begin using these new resources.

This new approach is in response to feedback from schools for high-quality, ready-to-use curriculum resources that embed explicit teaching, save time and support outstanding teaching and learning. These are the first of many remediated K–6 unit releases to follow across both English and mathematics K–6 into 2026. Schools can continue to use previously released resources on the department's internal Curriculum webpage.

Creative arts, HSIE, PDHPE and science and technology (CHPS) – microlearning module 3 now available

Microlearning module 3 for CHPS is now available on MyPL and contain resources that were delivered as professional learning to schools in Term 3. These modules are in a comprehensive format featuring recordings, facilitator guides and supporting resources.

• Creative arts microlearning
• HSIE microlearning
• PDHPE microlearning

• Science and technology microlearning

Term 4 professional learning for K–6 teachers

Register your staff for Term 4 professional learning in:

• English and mathematics – understand the enhancements that have been made to the primary English and mathematics curriculum resources aligned with the NSW Plan for Public Education.
• Creative arts, HSIE, PDHPE, science and technology (CHPS) – get 2026-ready with a focus on the professional learning and resources needed to confidently bring the CHPS sample units to life in classrooms.

Key details

• All sessions will be held online, facilitated via Microsoft Teams.
• There is no cost associated with this professional learning. However, if casual relief is used, that will need to be covered by the school.
• Maximum 2 participants per school per session (places are limited).
• A recording for the CHPS sample units: From planning to practice workshop will be made available for teachers later in Term 4.
• Support resources from the Engaging with enhancements to primary resources for mathematics and English workshops will be released later in Term 4.

Stewart House - The Department’s Charity of Choice:

Workplace Giving Made Simple with Smart

It's now easier and more efficient than ever to support Stewart House, the NSW Department of Education’s Charity of Choice since 1946.  All Workplace Giving (WPG) deductions will now be made through the Department’s contracted salary packaging provider, Smart (formerly Smartsalary), as a pre-tax deduction. There are no fees for packaging donations.

Support from NSW DoE staff remains essential, and the move to Smart is a pivotal step in continuing that proud tradition of helping disadvantaged public school children across the state.

About Workplace Giving

Workplace Giving through Smart reduces your taxable income upfront, making your donation simple, tax-effective, and fully ATO-compliant.

For Stewart House, regular contributions from staff provide reliable, ongoing support, helping us plan and continue vital programs free of charge for children in need.

Why Your Support Matters

Each child’s 12-day stay costs around $2,000 to provide, but there is no fee to carers for children to attend.  

Stewart House relies on community support to meet annual operating costs of around $5 million each year. Only 8% of funding comes from government sources, with the remainder raised through donations and fundraising.  

Your regular support through workplace giving makes a lasting difference in a child’s life. One student recently put it best:

“I’ve had a great time, as there were some things at home I needed to get off my chest. It’s a truly loveful place.”

Thank you for your continued support of NSW students’ wellbeing.

Useful links

• Learn more about Stewart House
• Set up or manage your pre-tax donation

Recognise a teacher who inspires you every day -Teacher’s Mutual Bank:

With Teachers Mutual Bank’s Take Five Initiative, you can shine a light on someone who deserves it. It’s noticed. It’s valued. It makes a difference.

Teaching takes courage, care, and countless unseen moments – whether it’s covering lunch duty, sharing resources, or just being there for moral support. Now, you have the chance to recognise that dedication.

Nominate a colleague for Take Five and they could receive one of ten gifts designed to give them back precious time. The top ten nominees will enjoy delicious dinners delivered to their homes and cash towards an indulgence or their financial wellbeing.

Ultimate Gift: One exceptional teacher will receive three months of delicious dinners delivered to their home, along with $2,000 deposited into a Teachers Mutual Bank account¹ — giving them time back in their day and contributing to their financial wellbeing.

Top Nine Gifts: Nine other outstanding teachers will each receive one month of delicious dinners and $500 in a Teachers Mutual Bank account¹ — giving them time back in their day and contributing to their financial wellbeing.

Just imagine the smile on your colleague’s face when they realise they won’t need to think about dinner after a long school day — or that they have extra support for a little indulgence to treat themselves.

And that recognition could pay off — literally. If your nomination is selected, $1,000 is yours².

The Take Five Initiative makes it easy to recognise your colleagues. It’s as simple as taking a moment to submit a nomination.

Nominate a teacher with Take Five.

Disclaimer 1. Terms and Conditions constitute your agreement with the promoter in relation to your participation as a nominee in the promotion. 2. Terms and Conditions constitute your agreement with the promoter in relation to your participation as a nominator in the promotion. Visit http://www.tmbank.com.au/takefive for more information. Membership is open to citizens or permanent residents of Australia who are current or retired employees in the Australian education sector or are family members of members (i.e. shareholders) of the Bank. Teachers Mutual Bank is a division of Teachers Mutual Bank Limited ABN 30 087 650 459 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 238981.

Go Blue for Breakthroughs this World Diabetes Day – 14 November 2025:

Schools are invited to Go Blue for Breakthroughs this World Diabetes Day on 14 November 2025. This national campaign encourages schools, workplaces, and community groups to turn their world blue, raise awareness, and fund research into a future free from Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Whether it’s a blue dress-up day, bake sale, themed assembly, or other creative ideas, Go Blue for Breakthroughs is a fun and simple way for students, staff, and families to get involved while making a real difference. With more than 135,000 Australians living with T1D and eight more diagnosed every day, every effort counts. Find out more information and sign up here.