East Adelaide School – Learning for Life

Governing Council

Role of Governing Council

Governance in schools and preschools is the responsibility of the governing council whose role is directed by the constitution and code of practice. In this model of governance:

  • The cooperative role of governing council and school staff is emphasised.
  • Management and governance are clearly separated.
  • The focus is on improving student learning outcomes.
  • The broad directions are set and monitored by the governing council.
  • The site leader and staff are responsible for reporting.
  • Joint areas of accountability are minimised.

Governing Councils

Set Broad Direction (In conjunction with the site leader)

The governing council identifies and incorporates, where possible, student, parent and community input and values into the broad direction of the school. The principal/preschool director brings the staff perspective to these undertakings. The broad direction may include a future vision, a statement of purpose and a set of values that clearly focus on improving student learning.

Develop Broad Directional Policy

The governing council develops broad policy statements that facilitate the achievement of the school vision and broad direction.

Initiate and Approve Recommendations and Strategies

All recommendations must conform with government policy, industrial agreements, DECD policy and direction and site decision making structures.

Other roles of Governing council include:

  • Monitoring progress of site budget and plans
  • Report Progress through the annual report to the school community.

Contact the Governing Council

Have a question or want to contact the governing council chairperson directly? Please fill out the below contact form and we will be in touch.

Composition of the Governing Council

The East Adelaide School Governing Council is made up of 18 voting members including 2 teaching staff, the elected parent members and the Principal.

Elections for Governing Council are held at the AGM usually held by mid February.

Sub Committees

Committees assist the governing council to carry out its functions more efficiently and effectively by handling matters that require considerable discussion, development or planning. They may be established to give advice on such responsibilities as finance, buildings and grounds, education policy and community relations.

Governing council committees are seen as a valuable way of:

  • assisting the council meet its array of responsibilities by expanding the number and range of people involved in governance and leaving the main body to focus on its broader governing role.
  • broadening opportunities for more parents and caregivers, staff and other community members with particular expertise to be involved.
  • providing other entry levels for the participation of interested parents and caregivers, community members and potential future council members.
  • increasing the involvement of staff and strengthening the link between site staff and the governance of the site.
The sub committees formed through our constitution include:
  • Finance Advisory Committee (chaired by the treasurer)
  • Asset and Landscaping
  • OSHC
  • Canteen
  • Parents and Friends
  • After School Sports