Approximately half the annual budget for the school comes from the Department of Education and Training. This covers site items such as gas, electricity, building maintenance, furniture and relief teacher salaries.
The other half of the school funds come from school contributions and P&C funds without which the school could not maintain the wide range of educational experiences currently provided for students. Fees enhance the educational opportunities available to the students.
Funds raised through the General Contribution are used for education resources and facilities in the school eg. the budget for printing and paper last year was $55,000 and for computer development $80,000 and we will continue to upgrade these resources. Subject Fees are used to purchase specialist equipment and consumables. Payment of the General Fee is voluntary. However, 50% of the General Service Fee is dedicated to class textbooks. Parents need to pay both the General Fee and Subject Fees to assist the school in significantly enhancing the resources and educational experiences provided for the students.
School Council has approved the introduction of an annual fee of $50 for Information Technology Support. This will provide funding for quality and innovative learning experiences across all Key Learning Areas. Consider such things as: interactive software; on line learning; technology not provided by DET (digital cameras, video cameras, scanners); printing consumables.
Additional costs such as excursions, sport, water safety program and optional activities (eg. band and music tuition) will occur throughout the year.
The P&C Funding Support has allowed for many school initiatives including:
• Lockable security cages in PE change room
• Purchase of mini DVD video camera
• Funding support towards
- year 9 playground shelter
- financial assistance of students representing the school
- refurbished frog pond area
• Reading books to support Literacy programs
• Honour Boards in the Hall and upgrading perpetual sporting shields
• Extension of “tracking” system in exhibition spaces such as the Hall and Foyer
PAYMENTS AT OFFICE
Office hours are 8.15am – 3.30pm.
Students can make payments of fees and excursions by cash or cheque before school, at recess and the first half of lunch. If paying before school please try to bring correct money as no cash is kept overnight on the premises. Payments are not taken at break. Receipts are issued for all money received.
Parents can make payments by cash, cheque or credit card at any time during office hours.
A minimum transaction of $20 applies to credit card payments.
Last date for payment of excursions is set by the teacher conducting the excursions. A minimum of two weeks’ notice is usually given for payment – longer for camps.
Unfortunately, late payments cannot be accepted except in exceptional circumstances, as paperwork has to be done and cheques drawn before the actual excursion date. Please try to pay early to avoid disappointment.
The Student Assistance Scheme is available to help students in Years 7-10 who may be experiencing hardship. The assistance may be for items such as uniform, elective subject fees or excursions. Applications for assistance under this scheme should be made in writing to the Head Teacher Welfare.