Conference 2008 photo's

The Tasmanian Catholic Parents & Friends Federation 49th Annual Conference was held at St Peter Chanel Primary School, Smithton on the 12th and 13th of April 2008.

The Conference commenced at 9am and was officially opened by His Grace The Most Rev. Archbishop Adrian Doyle. During the opening session the Deputy Premier, Minister for Education, Workplace Relations and Planning, the Hon. David Bartlett addressed the Conference. The Federation’s President Mr. Bill Button presented his report which was followed by a response by His Grace The Most Rev. Archbishop Adrian Doyle.

This year’s theme, “Awaken the Giant Within” had a two pronged approach.

Firstly the celebration of what parents and friends successfully do to support their Tasmanian Catholic schools. It is estimated that Tasmanian Catholic parents and friends contribute in-kind support to their schools in the vicinity of two million dollars per year. It was hoped this conference helped attendees realise that many of their school communities are supported extremely effectively due to the support provided by their parents and friends. Without this support, students would no doubt suffer. The guest speaker, Mr. Brendan Kelly enlightened those gathered about both his professional and personal experiences in supporting and working with parents and friends and why this is critical in advancing school and student achievement.

The second approach to “Awaken the Giant Within” is the proposal by the Tasmanian Catholic Parents and Friends Federation to seek funding to create Parent Liaison Advisers. It is hoped these advisors would support the Tasmanian Catholic Parents and Friends Associations and ultimately parents of children in Tasmanian Catholic schools support them in their primary role. It is widely acknowledged that the single most influence in student success and attainment is the effectiveness of their parents to parent comprehensively. Due to the changing nature of the family and the new stresses placed on them, it is hoped these Parent Liaison Advisers can help parents help their children achieve their potential.

The Conference Speeches and Conference Document can be viewed / downloaded below.

Archbishop Adrian Doyle's Conference Address 2008
TCSPFF Presidents Conference Report 2008
What Impacts on Student Achievement Conference PowerPoint Presentation
Annual Conference Documents 2008