VIC/TAS Board Members/Leaders Lunch

Best of Times or Worst of Times? Challenges and Opportunities for Christian Schools in a post-Christian Australia

How do we "futureproof" our Christian schools? The challenges faith-based schools face in an increasingly secular space are not insignificant. But neither are they insurmountable. Despite legislative challenges politically, and a post-Christian framework culturally, there is a strong appetite for a Christian education system, even among those with no religious affiliation. With anxiety levels off the charts in our society, and a continued search for meaning and purpose, Christian schools can offer a clear gospel hope, as well as an excellent education, to a community looking for a stable anchor for the next generation.

All School Leaders and Board Members are invited to join us for a time of networking and fellowship over a meal, as we hear from our keynote speaker, Stephen McAlpine.

Event Information

This event is ideally suited to Principals, Board Chairs, Board Members, Deputy Principals, Business Managers and other school leaders.

The cost of the lunch is $100 +GST and includes a three course lunch. You will be able to provide any special dietary requirements at registration.

Program Outline

A brief overview of the program is provided below, however please note this program is subject to change:

12:00pm Arrival and networking
12:30pm Three course lunch in the Bayside Room
1:00pm Keynote address between courses
3:00pm Conclusion

Speakers

Your Host: Dr Maria Varlet, EO VIC/TAS

Dr Maria Varlet has been involved in Christian Education for over 30 years, holding a variety of leadership positions including Head of Research & Innovation and Campus Principal. She has served on a number of Boards including as Deputy Chair of the CSA National Council. Maria has completed extensive formal study including a doctoral thesis which contributes insights into how Christian schools might utilise professional learning strategies to address tensions between ethos and assessment practices. As the Executive Officer, VIC/TAS, Maria is looking after the portfolio of Professional Learning. She is passionate about promoting and developing exemplary education practice, challenging the status quo and equipping and inspiring others. Her professional interests include teacher professional learning, leadership development and school improvement.

Stephen McAlpine: Director of Cultural Engagement, City to City Australia

Stephen McAlpine is the Director of Cultural Engagement for City to City Australia. He has a background in journalism, and has been involved in pastoral ministry for three decades, pastoring and planting churches in Perth. He speaks and writes about the cultural changes we are experiencing in the West, and the pressures and opportunities this presents to churches and Christian organisations. As a former board member of a network of seven Christian schools, Stephen knows first hand how the landscape is changing for the sector. His book Being The Bad Guys: How To Live For Jesus In a World That Says You Shouldn't, was Australian Christian Book of the Year for 2021. Stephen is married to Jill, and they have two children who are well on the way to adulthood.

Qualify for CPD Hours

To be confirmed

Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be made in writing to the Event Organiser.

No refunds will be issued after 14 days out from the event. Any cancellations made after this date will be charged the full registration fee. 'No Shows' to the event will be charged the full registration fee.

The event program is subject to change without prior notice.

Registration fees do not include insurance to cover loss of any fees/deposit through cancellation of your participation in the event or through cancellation of the event itself.

A full refund will be issued if the event is cancelled by the organiser (CSA) due to COVID-19 restrictions or any other reasons out of the organisers control.