Pictured (from left): Mr Emanuel Merambeliotis from Pakenham Secondary College; Dr Martin Samy from Monash University's Department of Accounting and Finance; Mr Paul Desmond from St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield; and Mr Tony Scheumack from Beaconhills College, Pakenham.

Berwick education leaders discuss school effectiveness

Parents and educators attended a public lecture at Monash University 's Berwick campus on 24 August to find out how to measure the effectiveness of schools.

Dr Martin Samy from Monash's Department of Accounting and Finance was joined by three local principals - Mr Paul Desmond from St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield; Mr Emanuel Merambeliotis from Pakenham Secondary College; and Mr Tony Scheumack from Beaconhills College, Pakenham - to identify the key components of an effective school.

Last year Dr Martin Samy from Monash's Department of Accounting and Finance surveyed about 700 principals, teachers, parents and council members at more than 40 public and private schools. Participants scored their schools on eight areas that he devised, according to how they believed the school performed and where they felt there was room for improvement.

Dr Samy says choosing a school based on VCE results, class sizes or school facilities is not an accurate representation of its performance or ability to meet students' needs.

“Effectiveness is a combination of school, home, political and social factors,” he said.

“A traditional learning environment may suit one cohort but alienate another. Parents need to choose a school that matches their child's strengths, values and desired outcomes.”

Each of the principals discussed how their school environment – independent, catholic and government – differed, emphasising the importance of offering students a number of pathways for lifelong learning including TAFE, VET and higher education.

The evening was hosted by the Monash University Berwick Business Education Group. Their next event, Your Business on the Internet, will be held at 7 am on 29 September. To find out more information go to: http://www.buseco.monash.edu.au/mubbeg/