It’s hard to believe that we’re in Term 4 and our very special 75th anniversary conference is not too far away – it's conference season!
I was fortunate to attend the recent WACSSO (Western Australian Council of State School Organisations) annual conference, with our CEO, Di Giblin. The two days were packed with excellent speakers and top quality performances by WA government school students. There is certainly a plethora of talent in our schools.
Keynote speaker Rabia Siddique captivated the entire audience with her story of abuse, war, torture, negotiation, sexism, and suing the British Army for its sexist practices. Her determination, in the toughest of times, to stand up for herself and those around her was nothing short of inspiring.
Addresses by the WA Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Sue Ellery, and Commissioner for Children and Young People, Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, were informative and challenging, highlighting the disadvantage faced by so many of our young people, and the need for urgent attention. I’m sure this is true across the nation.
The student panel was another highlight, with a vast array of topics and experiences all presented by a group of very well informed, articulate young people. Not only did they deliver their prepared speeches, but they answered audience questions without notice, and every answer was considered, and on-point. Another example of why sharing student voice is so vital. They really did leave us with the feeling that our future is in good hands.
Congrats WACSSO!
2021 - 2017
PO BOX 8221,
Werrington County,
NSW, Australia, 2747
0497 042 026 (Monday, Tuesday & Thursday)
0418 470 604 (Monday through to Friday)
© 2017 ACSSO
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