A year of expansion and development.
Despite increasing financial pressures on families, enrolment growth in the Independent school sector continued at a higher rate than other sectors in 2023, showing that parents trust the quality of Independent education and the ongoing efforts of school leaders and staff.
2023 was a year of expansion and development for Independent Schools Australia. After a careful and thorough recruitment process, we were delighted to appoint Graham Catt as the new Chief Executive Officer of ISA.
Graham’s appointment effectively marked the commencement of an extensive consultation and planning process to support the development of ISA’s Strategic Plan 2024 – 2026. This included engagement with each of our member associations, government stakeholders, national agencies, visits to schools and more.
I would like to acknowledge and thank Carolyn Grantskalns for kindly agreeing to step in as Interim CEO of ISA in early 2023, following her retirement from the Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA). Her contribution and guidance of ISA as we went through our hiring process was invaluable. I would also like to recognise outgoing Board member Michelle Green, who concluded her role after more than 20 years as Chief Executive of Independent Schools Victoria (ISV).
In 2023 our work focused on promoting Independent school education for students through increased advocacy and strong national representation. We have communicated with stakeholders through reliable relationships, supporting members in each state and territory through their own state elections, with active networks, and fruitful partnerships to support Independent schools, making sure that our voice is listened to at the highest levels of government and within the wider educational community.
During the year, ISA has led in-depth data analysis and substantial research projects, demonstrating the organisation’s deep knowledge of national education policy and funding issues.
In 2023 we continued to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and pay our respect to Elders past and present in our ongoing journey and commitment to reconciliation through the development of our Reconciliation Action Plan. Our work in this area has broadened our values and enhanced the quality of our organisational culture.
In summary, the year 2023 has shown the resilience and flexibility of ISA, its member AISs and Independent schools. We have not only survived the challenges but have become stronger, more united, and more committed to our mission.
In developing our new Strategic Plan 2024 – 2026, the ISA Board has supported and endorsed a more leadership-oriented role within our national structure, the sector, and our interactions with governments and others. As we deliver on this challenge, I am confident that the foundation we have strengthened this year will lead us to even stronger and more effective achievements in the years ahead.
Finally, I’d like to express my appreciation to CEO Graham Catt, all the ISA Secretariat staff, and to my fellow Board Members for their expertise, relentless efforts, and dedication to ISA and the Independent school sector during 2023. It is through this support that our organisation can deliver so much for our members and for school education in Australia.
Thank you for your ongoing support and belief in the quality of an Independent school education.
Michael E Jones OAM JP
Board Chair
Independent Schools Australia
I am confident that the foundation we have strengthened this year will lead us to even stronger and more effective achievements in the years ahead.
Mr Michael E Jones OAM JP, Chair
