Establishing a P&F Association

Formation of a Parents & Friends Association is an integral part of the establishment of a

new school.  Once the school principal has been appointed, interim committees of parents

are formed to assist in the planning of the new school.  Leaders of these interim committees

form the main Interim Committee, working with the principal (and teachers once the school

has commenced) in the interest of the school.

The Interim Committee

Ø          meets with the diocesan Parents & Friends Executive and/or the Parents & Friends Executive Officer to plan and share information prior to the official establishment of a Parents & Friends Association

Ø          invites members of established P&F Committees of neighbouring schools to one of these meetings, to share their helpful experiences

Ø          calls a public meeting to inform all members of the community what a Parents & Friends Association is

Ø          works with the school principal and staff to plan a series of education/induction meetings to prepare the school community for the P & F Association

Formation of the P & F

Following the education/training sessions a public meeting is called to establish a P & F Association.  The meeting

Ø          elects office bearers

Ø          adopts a constitution (a model is available on this website)

Ø          establishes a number of committees as required; others are formed as time progresses and other needs arise.

The sub-committee structure is recommended because it

Ø          spreads the authority and responsibility

Ø          enables more people to contribute in areas suited to their interests and skills

Ø          enables parents and teachers to work together

Ø          allows for meeting arrangements to be convenient to the group

Ø          confines business at general monthly meeting to a program, reports and special business.

Sub-Committees that are recommended to be created at the time of the Association being established could include

Ø          Pastoral Care

Ø          Vision and Mission

Ø          Information Technology and Communication

Ø          School Curriculum And Information

Ø          Social And Sporting

Ø          Political Action

Ø          Grounds And Maintenance

Ø          Adult and religious

Ø          finance and fundraising

Ø          communication   - with the Diocesan  P&F, the Federation office.  Contact with the  neighbouring P&F Committees is often helpful.

The P & F Association should be flexible in its operation, with parents and teachers seeking the most appropriate ways of addressing the needs of the particular community.

Click here for information on Sub-committees.