Filter Content
- From The Chairperson
- ASBLA State Report
- 2022 Conference
- Trybooking Link - 2022 TSAA Conference
- Keynote Speaker - Claire Madden
- Administration Clerks - Nomination to attend the 2022 TSAA Conference
- TSAA Membership
- ASBLA - Webinar
- Clarence High School Office Refurbishment
- Reframing What it Means to be Productive
This month we include my state report (below) which was presented at the ASBLA (Australian School Business Leaders Association) AGM last week which Lea-Anne Breganti and myself attended via Zoom. ASBLA is our National Association which we are affiliated with. We have a National ASBLA Meeting scheduled for 13 July which will be held via ZOOM due to our inability to attend interstate meetings at this time.
The TSAA continue to support administrators in schools by representing you at DoE Corporate Meetings and Focus and Project Stakeholder Groups. During this term we continued to meet with the Finance and HR Teams via TEAMS along with representation and involvement in a number of very interesting stakeholder groups and proposed initiatives including;
- SAAF – School Administrators’ Advisory Forum
- Kiosk Working Group
- People Capability and Development Group - re professional learning and training for non-teaching staff
- Workforce Wellbeing, Inclusion and Engagement Group
- Edupoint Pilot Program
- Business Operation Advisor Induction Program
Our Executive are busy planning our September conference program. What a great line up we have with some fabulous keynote speakers locked in, along with informative DoE Presentations from DoE Business Units and plenty of time for networking with our sponsors and colleagues. Save these dates - Thursday 8 and Friday 9 September 2022 at Country Club, Launceston. Further details in this Bulletin.
We are currently in conversations with the DoE Business Operations Advisors, reviewing and reflecting on the coordination and management of our Mentoring / Buddying Program. This program compliments and supports the BOA's New Induction Program. Further updates will be shared as we reassess who will facilitate this valuable program moving forward.
Wishing everyone a relaxing holiday break and / or some quiet catch-up time in your school. Take care, stay safe and enjoy some YOU time!
Cynthia Pearce
TSAA Chairperson
Tasmanian School Administrators’ Association (TSAA)
State Report for Australian School Business Leaders Association (ASBLA)
June 2022
Like other states Covid has continued to impact our everyday operations and delivery over the past twelve months. Our focus has been in our schools and supporting colleagues through these tough times and liaising with DoE Business Units to promote strong relationships, strengthen connections, promote opportunities for input, feedback and communication. Our Executive have continued to meet regularly via TEAMS along with involvement in DoE stakeholder groups and regular meetings with our DoE Corporate Business Units.
Planning is underway for our state-wide annual conference, to be held 8 and 9 September at Country Club Launceston, our 2022 Theme – ‘Shaping the Future – the New Normal’. Our program will include a dinner on day one. We are expecting around 130 delegates. Interest from sponsors has been strong with a good number signed up. Keynote speakers are Claire Madden, social researcher and media commentator interpreting social trends and implications of generational change along with Rachel Williams, local media identity and businesswoman as MC and keynote. DoE Corporate Business Units will present over the two days sharing new processes, relevant topics and operational procedures. Day two commences with our AGM. We look forward to coming together to network, re-connect, meet new people and support each other.
Our Association will be reflecting and reviewing our values and mission statement as we feel this is no longer relevant and not in line with what we now do. We will be asking our members for input – What do they want from our Association, how can we support them in their roles? Members will be given an opportunity to brainstorm and share ideas at our conference.
For many years, our Association has offered a Mentoring Program for newly appointed SBM’s and those who are returning to the role following an extended absence. This is an important transition time in people’s careers, the availability of advice and support from a buddy can make a huge difference to a new SBM’s confidence, competence and effectiveness especially in the early days of their new role. Members have attended training and a data base maintained to match Mentors with Mentees. The aim of our program is to compliment and support the DoE Business Operations Advisors, DoE SBM Induction Program. Whilst our program has been very popular amongst our SBM cohort, our Executive have felt continued weight and influence from DoE to ensure we are not offering system training or blurring the lines between our buddy / mentor program and the DoE managed induction training program and online resources. After much discussion, our Executive have made the difficult decision to dissolve our Mentoring Program, with a shift towards the DoE Business Advisor Team fully coordinating and supporting all mentoring, training and induction to new employees.
Tasmanian schools, like our colleagues in other states are continuing to review and manage our Covid safety plans in consultation with Public Health and DoE. Just this week the mask wearing rules have been relaxed in our schools, wow, how nice it is to see facial expressions and share emotions with our colleagues.
We look froward to continued relationships and working with ASBLA as our affiliated National Association in the coming year.
Cynthia Pearce
Chairperson
"Shaping the Future - the New Normal"
THURSDAY 8 & FRIDAY 9 SEPTEMBER, 2022
COUNTRY CLUB, LAUNCESTON
Keynote Speaker – Claire Madden
Claire Madden | Next Gen Expert
Emcee and Keynote Speaker; Rachel Williams, Millwood Media
Country Club now taking accommodation bookings for conference delegates
book early to secure your accommodation at great discounted rates!
Phone reservations on 03 6335 5777 or email on reservations@countryclubtasmania.com.au and quote ‘TSAA’.
This will secure the discounted government rate that is available to attendees of our conference
Note - no rooms are held and accommodation is subject to availability
RESORT Accommodation:
Deluxe rooms: $119.00
Executive rooms: $129.00
Suites: $209
VILLAS Accommodation:
One bedroom villas: $110.00
Two bedroom villas: $155.00
Three bedroom villas: $175.00
Villa suites: $145.00
For further information or images on the accommodation, delegates can visit the Country Club Website on this link Accommodation Launceston | Best Launceston Hotels | Country Club (countryclubtasmania.com.au)
if you are checking in on Wednesday night please join your colleagues for our
PRE-CONFERENCE DINNER
at BOLTERS RESTAURANT
Wednesday 7 September, 6.30 pm
(dinner cost not included in conference package)
Keynote Speaker - Claire Madden
Claire Madden (www.clairemadden.com) is a leading voice
internationally on Generation Z. As an author, social researcher,
keynote speaker, and media commentator, Claire is in high demand
as an expert in interpreting social trends, demographics, and
implications of generational change. Claire is the author of Hello Gen
Z: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials.
Claire is highly regarded for her dynamic and engaging presentations
where she translates robust, research-based content into strategic
applications for educators, managers, and business leaders.
Claire is commissioned by some of the nation’s largest companies
and leading brands to interpret the changing landscape and
communicate the implications for business and society.
As a media commentator, Claire is regularly interviewed on prominent
television programs including ABC News Tonight, The Drum, The Today
Show, SkyNews, Sunrise and The Morning Show, as well as on the radio
and in print media. Claire is also a PhD candidate, studying the impact
of Gen Z and work. Claire is also the Founder and Director of the
research based strategy and communications agency, Hello Clarity
(www.helloclarity.com.au).
Claire Madden is the ‘go-to’ expert on generational engagement.
Businesses engage her to better understand what makes younger
generations tick and how to create an organisational culture that
best harnesses and integrates their strengths.
Not just a social researcher, she’s a media commentator,
business consultant, and founder and Director of the strategy and
communications agency, Hello Clarity. She is also the author of the
book Hello Gen Z: Engaging the Generation of Post-Millennials.
With academic qualifications in communications and postgraduate
studies in leadership, she’s been featured on ABC, Channel 7, Channel
9, Channel 10 and Sky News, as well as on radio and print media, and
regularly conducts presentations and workshops around the country.
Administration Clerks - Nomination to attend the 2022 TSAA Conference
On behalf of the Tasmanian School Administrators Association (TSAA) we would like to invite Administration Clerks to attend our upcoming TSAA 2022 Conference in Launceston – “Shaping the Future – the New Normal”. We have 25 registrations available. If you would like to attend, please submit an expression of interest and complete the attached nomination form which must be endorsed by both your School Business Manager and your Principal. This is a great opportunity to attend some fantastic presentations, network with colleagues and develop your skills and confidence.
Like all organisations TSAA are reliant on the support and active participation of its members. TSAA is no different and appreciates the ongoing support from schools across the State. Our aim is to provide a vibrant platform to liaise with DoE Business Units, be involved in stakeholder groups and represent administrators in schools. Member support is vital to the growth and continuation of our Association to continue to create a positive and strategic professional presence for our School Administrators. Payment of the annual membership allows us to support our colleagues to attend interstate conferences, professional development and networking opportunities, including our annual conference and provide collegiate support in times of crisis. Membership of our Association is available to all Senior Administrators in all Education Department Schools and Colleges. The TSAA is affiliated with the Australian School Business Leaders’ Association (ASBLA). Previously known as AAGSA, this association was formed in 2002 by School Business Leaders from Tasmania, South Australia and Victoria with the notion to form a national body to represent and support state school administrators across Australia. Whilst the pandemic has meant the face-to-face meetings have taken on a different look and feel we have continued to meet regularly via online platforms.
TSAA MEMBERSHIP—WHAT DO YOU GET?
Membership provides a greater opportunity for professional communication, promoting strong relationships, strengthening connections and provides opportunities for input, feedback and greater connection with our peers together with increased influence within the Department when collaborating on current issues and promotes inclusion and representation on stakeholder groups
- Bi-termly TSAA Bulletin
- Affiliate membership with our National Professional Body—ASBLA (Australian School Business Leaders’ Association)
- Annual State-wide conference for SBMs and EOI invitation for all Administration Clerks
- The opportunity to attend Interstate Conferences - pre and post Covid-19 restrictions
- Building the profile of School Business Managers as a professional body responsible for leading and supporting efficient management of our school's business and operational functions including administration, WHS, asset management, HR and finance
- Members feel connected and supported, professional, confident, and involved
The TSAA is affiliated with ASBLA, our National Association (Australian School Business Leaders' Association) – on behalf of ASBLA we would like to invite you to participate in the 2nd FREE online webinar being offered by Australian Resilience Expert, Michael Licenblat. http://www.BounceBackFast.com
As we all know, professional learning opportunities have been very limited over the past two years due to the impact of Covid-19. These webinars are a way ASBLA can reach out, offer support and give back to our members.
Please distribute to your admin staff and encourage as many members as you can to attend. This is a free event. The event will be recorded for those that are unable to attend or wish to watch at another time however you will need to register to have access to this recording.
Maximise Your Productivity - Without Becoming Drained
Date: Wednesday 10th August at 12.00 SA time (12.30pm VIC time)
Video: https://vimeo.com/715070096/986a207f23
Registration page: https://professionalspeakersaustralia.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMpcu2tqz0jG9zP_4ZS3D4aeHV5O0Ve0nmR
Description: Business and Finance Managers often find themselves dealing with multiple demands and unrealistic time frames without much appreciation for their efforts or empathy for their position. Trying to find the balance between too available and helpful with setting rigid boundaries is proving to be difficult which often results in doing everything yourself and feeling exhausted and taken advantage of. For business managers to be more effective, productive and have longevity in their role, they need to find methods to manage expectations and communication with their staff and leadership teams. In this online seminar, Michael will discuss practical productivity principles and communication strategies to take back control over your time, attention and availability so that you can manage your output - without becoming burntout and rundown.
Clarence High School Office Refurbishment
CLARENCE HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE RENOVATION
During 2021 Clarence High School received its long-awaited main office renovation. Administration staff are delighted with the finished result, allowing for a larger, more open plan and light filled space. The original office dated back to the opening of the school in 1959 and was well in need of a refresh. Our revamped office has brought us well and truly into the 21st century with a modern and up to date feel.
We are just awaiting the finishing touches of some furniture for our entry foyer to complete the welcoming feel for our visitors and parents.
Reframing What it Means to be Productive
Do more. Work harder. Hustle
This is the motto we are used to hearing in the modern age, especially in the workforce. Hard work is celebrated, and anything less is perceived as weak. Clocking long hours, sacrificing sleep, forgoing leisure time, neglecting nutrition, and living to work have become badges of honour, signifying dedication and a ‘do whatever it takes’ mentality.
Productivity is often associated with how much you tick off your to-do list and the more work you can do, the better.
But if you keep going like this, symptoms of burnout are bound to creep up on you – no matter how strong your stamina and work ethic is. You may feel irritable, exhausted, unable to focus, lack motivation, and have an overall negative outlook on life.
The good news is: a shift is occurring. Self-care and wellness are coming more and more into focus, climbing up our ladder of priorities. However, these two frames of mind seem to clash – so how, then, do we adjust our lifestyle and thinking to harness the positive aspects of both?
Navigating ‘Hustle Culture’
The ideology of ‘Hustle Culture’ has gained traction in the Western world, largely propelled by social media. This cultural movement glorifies a lifestyle where aspects of our lives that typically bring fulfilment – such as hobbies, passion projects, self-care, social and family interactions – take the backseat while our waking attention is diverted to our career.
While these recent ideals glorify overworking as a point of pride, the collateral effects set the stage for an environment of fear, guilt and shame when you don’t commit yourself to the same ideals of endless work.
These ideals are anything but sustainable. We encourage you to recognise when the toxic aspects of this culture are affecting your judgement of productivity.
A refreshed perspective of productivity
Ticking off your tasks, taking steps towards your goals and feeling accomplished is an incredibly powerful, motivating and uplifting feeling. It helps you feel pride in yourself and helps boost your mental clarity. But this stops being the case when you cross the line and become imbalanced in your pursuit of achievements.
This is an easy fix! We just need to open our awareness and recognise our boundaries. Knowing when to draw back and focus on rest and recuperation is more beneficial to your productivity.
Yes. Rest. Is. Productive.
Studies have shown that a balance between work and life commitments improves work performance, allowing people to stay focused and attentive.
So factor your work/life balance in! When organising your tasks for the day or the week, include time to recharge and how you will fill your cup with whatever brings you joy.
Below are some tips on positive ways to enrich your much-needed downtime that will boost your performance when you are working or ticking off tasks on your to-do list.
Nourish your body
By fuelling your body with nutritionally dense foods and proper hydration, you can achieve a persistent state of wellness which is key to fortifying your productive energy.
By giving your body all the nutrients, it needs to thrive, you’ll experience greater mental clarity and improved mood, and be able to sustain focus for longer. To do this, set and persevere with balanced daily eating habits that consist mainly of nutrient-dense, wholesome foods, but allow the space for foods that serve the purpose of bringing enjoyment.
Detach from your work state
An integral part of achieving effective rest during your resting moments is to stay completely detached from your ‘working state’. This means disconnecting from any stimulus that requires you to engage in that mode of being. This may include talking about work, doing work-related tasks on your device, and thinking about or organising future work tasks.
Optimise your flow state
To fully embrace your rest and keep them uninterrupted, you’ll want to make the most of the time you are working. This isn’t about working for longer but maximising what you can do in the short time periods you set yourself.
To do this, accessing your flow state is key, which also means minimising avenues for procrastination. To make the most productive use of your time every day, set your intention to find the routine that works best for you personally, and stick to it as much as possible. This may involve a morning commitment to self-care involving relaxation and exercise, followed by a period of deep work once your ‘cup’ is full.
Then, when it’s time to get down to business, clarify the task that must be completed, set a timer for the period that you intend to spend working without a break (for example, 25 minutes), and enter an uninterrupted workflow for that period of time. Once the time has passed, take a short break to rest your body and mind.
We’d encourage a period of stillness that’s free from engagement with devices, such as a few moments of meditation, enjoying a light snack, or having a quick stretch, before beginning your next period of uninterrupted work (if required).
Say no
You’ve set aside some time to take a break from work or chores. This doesn’t mean time to pack out your schedule! Commit your intentions in advance and prioritise time to recharge. Whilst you may want to occupy this time by socialising, exercising and doing hobbies – which is of course, important for a healthy, happy and balanced lifestyle – don’t let this override your intention to simply press pause and unwind. Remember: this is productive too.
Shifting your perspective of what it means to be productive will not only help you achieve a greater sense of self-satisfaction but also cultivate a work-life balance that will leave you feeling happier, more content and fulfilled with life.
REFEENCE: Reframing what it means to be productive - Eden Health Retreat