By Margery Evans, Chief Executive
For almost 60 years, AISNSW has proudly represented, worked with and advocated for the diverse and dynamic Independent schools’ sector in New South Wales. With a deep understanding of Independent schools and today’s complex teaching environment, our organisation has supported educators and school leaders with sector-specific expertise, industry insights and practices that support high-quality teaching and learning.
As Australia has evolved – becoming more culturally diverse and attuned to the varied needs and preferences of families – Independent schools have adapted in kind. Today, one in five NSW children attend an Independent school, a number that continues to grow every year as these schools innovate and respond to the changing expectations of students, families and communities.
AISNSW has grown alongside the schools, deepening our expertise and strengthening our influence, all the while remaining true to our founding purpose: championing educational excellence, independence and choice for families and communities across the state.
To remain contemporary and reflective of our progressive sector, AISNSW has changed its name to Independent Schools NSW. This new name is accompanied by a refreshed visual identity that directly speaks to who we are today, how we serve Independent schools and who we aspire to be in the years ahead.
A clearer identity for a stronger sector
Independent schools in New South Wales are among the most diverse in Australia.
Across the state, over 430 Independent schools serve a wide variety of communities – urban, regional, faith-based and secular, multicultural and those with complex educational needs. Our new name clearly expresses who we represent. It places schools at the heart of our identity. It is straightforward and signals that we are forward-looking and committed to serving, supporting and strengthening Independent schools.
As the voice for the sector, our new name makes our purpose clear to educators, policymakers, parents and the wider community. While our name is changing, our mission remains the same. We will continue to provide expert advice, professional learning and sector-leading support to promote educational excellence, independence and choice for all families.
Our commitment to NSW Independent schools has been reflected this year with the increase in attendance at our in-person courses – at least one staff member participating in professional learning from 92% of member schools. Attendance at our conferences has also significantly increased (up 20%) and online courses are thriving. This all points to the ambition of schools to develop their staff and consequently, advance education, and enhance futures for students.
Looking ahead
Independent education continues to play a vital and growing role in the NSW education landscape. As Independent Schools NSW, we are better positioned than ever to represent and support the schools that deliver outstanding learning experiences for thousands of students every day.
As Independent Schools NSW we will continue to reflect both our proud history and also our ambitious future.
The above article was supplied to The Educator by Independent Schools NSW.