The Ponds High School

Inspired Learning

Telephone02 9626 3562

Emailtheponds-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Parents and citizens association

What is a Parent & citizens association (P&C)?

A P & C Association is a school-based organization consisting of parents and citizens created to bring the school and community into close cooperation. They have existed for over 150 years and have long been recognized by Parliament as the representative voice of parents with children in Public Schools.

What does a P&C do?

  • Promote the interest of the school by bringing parents, citizens, students and teaching staff into close co-operation;
  • Assist in providing facilities and equipment for the school and promoting the recreation and welfare of the students at the school;
  • Encourage parent and community participation in curriculum and other education issues in schools;
  • Assist and co-operate with teaching staff at public functions associated with the school
  • Being responsible for the election of parent representatives to any school council constituted at the school in consultation with the principal of the school; and
  • Assist in any other matters in which the Minister may seek the co-operation of the association.

Who can be a member of a P&C association?

Membership is open to all parents and guardians of pupils attending The Ponds High School and to all citizens within the school community. It only cost one dollar per school year to become a member and to have the right to vote; this is, however, not compulsory. If you just want to come to listen to the discussions and presentations, you are more than welcome to attend.

Why should I join a P&C?

Recent research has shown that the vital ingredient for student’s engagement and learning is parental participation. Being involved in the education process is one of the best expressions of support you can give your child. It has the greatest impact on children’s engagement with schooling and educational success. Additionally it gives the opportunity to participate in decision-making about spending funds to best assist the school/students. Get involved and be really informed about your child’s education, it is rewarding and your children will benefit.

Since when is TPHS P&C active?

The first inaugural Annual General Meeting was held on 18th March 2015, during which the P&C executive and committee members were elected. The Annul General Meeting is held in August to elect P&C officials.

When does the P&C meet?

We meet a few times per term in the 3rd and 8th week of each term at 7:15pm in the Library.

As a parent or carer, you are an important part of our school community. We offer a range of services to support you and your family.

Parents and Citizens’ Association (P&C)

Our Parents and Citizens’ Association (P&C) is made up of parents and carers, teachers and community members. The P&C meets regularly to contribute to decision-making, developing policies and management plans as well as fundraising.

Counselling for families

The school counsellor can assist when families undergo a trauma or big change. Contact us to make an appointment. For information in community languages, see school counselling service.

Outside of the education system, free telephone counselling services are available to support families who may be going through a difficult time.

  • Lifeline – 24-hour telephone counselling service. Ph: 13 11 14.
  • Mensline Australia – 24-hour telephone counselling service for men. Ph: 1300 789 978.
  • Parent line – an advice and information service. Ph: 1300 1300 52.

Interpreting and translations

We will help you communicate with our school. If you’d like an interpreter for a school meeting, let us know and we will arrange one, if available.

If you don’t speak or understand English well and want to contact us, call TIS National on 131 450 and ask for an interpreter in your language. The operator will call the school and get an interpreter to help. This service is free.

For more information, listen in your language.

Visit the department’s translated documents section for important information that’s relevant for your child’s education in many languages.