eNews - 1 June 2023 (Schools)

President Matt Jarman: Violence may boil over in schools, but it starts out in society

The biggest myth around violence in schools is that it is a school problem. It is not.

Schools are part of the broader community. They just happen to be one of the places where the problem is most easily seen.

When educators are asked to address behaviours that may manifest in schools but are actually created in broader society, it is vital that there is community involvement in delivering solutions.

With the spotlight recently turned on violent incidents in schools, there can surely be no doubt now that we need some urgent community-based action.

This piece was originally published in The West Australian, 27 May 2023.

Read more of SSTUWA president, Matt Jarman's article here >>

Report violence now

The SSTUWA is committed to supporting members who are subjected to violence in their workplace.

We need your reports to assist you. If you or a colleague are the victim of violence at work please let us know using our new reporting form. We will then be able to follow up and ensure you get the assistance you need.

The form can be found here.

Inquiry into support for autistic children and young people in schools

A parliamentary inquiry into support for autistic children and young people in schools will be launched to better understand the prevalence of autism in WA and how it will impact the demand for support in schools.

The Education and Health Standing Committee inquiry is chaired by Thornlie MLA Chris Tallentire and will report back to parliament on 21 March 2024.

Submissions can be made to the committee by 13 July 2023 via email at laehsc@parliament.wa.gov.au and more information about the committee can be found here.

Education and training

Registrations now open for ECE Conference 2023: Re-Ignite Your Passion | Friday 4 August

Each year, the SSTUWA hosts the Early Childhood Educator Conference, which brings early childhood educators within our union together. Join our 2023 event and be inspired by a range of great speakers and workshop presenters.

The one-day event will provide members with the opportunity to learn, listen, share ideas and to refresh their minds. We are confident that this experience will help our attendees reignite their passion.

Keynote speaker: The Hon Dr Anne Aly (MP)

Featured speaker: Tammy-Anne Caldwell - Above and Beyond Education

Breakout workshops:

• Guiding Children’s Behaviour in Early Childhood - Dr Kay Ayre, Edith Cowan University
• Ten Top Tips for Practical Brain-Based Approach to Wellbeing, Teaching and Learning in ECE - Tammy-Anne Caldwell and Todd Budden, Above and Beyond Education
• Musical Activities, Ideas, Songs, Games and Dances in the Early Years - Hilary Keegan, School of Musical Heartbeats

Register today!