Learning for Life Rockhampton Girls Grammar School ANNUAL REPORT 2010 ISSN 1837-8706 (Print) ISSN 1837-8714 (Online) Non Scholae Sed Vitai
Learning for Life
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
ANNUAL REPORT 2010
ISSN 1837-8706 (Print) ISSN 1837-8714 (Online)
Non Scholae Sed Vitai
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Contents
Communication objective ...................... 2
Purpose of the Report ....................................... 2 Availability of the Report ................................... 2
Our school ............................................... 3
Our values ........................................................ 3 Our history ........................................................ 3 Our present ....................................................... 3
Our year in review ................................... 4
Chairman‟s speech night address .................... 4
Our learning environment ...................... 6
Our organisational structure ............................. 6 Academic highlights .......................................... 7 Cultural achievements ...................................... 8 Sporting highlights ............................................ 9 Community connections ................................... 9
Our people ............................................. 10
Staff profile ...................................................... 10 Staff relations .................................................. 10 Staff retention ................................................. 10 Staff professional development ...................... 10
School profile ........................................ 11
Student information ......................................... 11 Scholarships & bursaries ................................ 11 Curriculum directions ...................................... 12 Reporting ........................................................ 12 Pastoral care ................................................... 12 School management ....................................... 13 Leadership Team ............................................ 13 The School‟s financial systems ...................... 13 Annual audit .................................................... 13 Information systems and record keeping ........ 13 School location and contact details ................ 13
School support groups ......................... 13
The Parents & Friends Assoc Inc (P&F) ......... 13 The RGGS Race Day Committee Inc ............. 14 The RGGS – Old Girls‟ Assoc Inc (OGA) ....... 15
School Governance .............................. 17
Board membership ......................................... 17 Board statutory functions and powers ............ 18 Board reporting ............................................... 18
Consultancies ....................................... 20
Overseas travel ..................................... 20
Our performance in 2010 ...................... 20
Focus 1: Community promotion ...................... 20 Focus 2: High performance culture ................ 21 Focus 3: Financial sustainability ..................... 21
Finance 2010 .................................................. 21 Building the Education Revolution 2010 ......... 22 Capital works for 2010 .................................... 22
Looking forward .................................... 23
Outlook for 2011 ............................................. 23 Future Capital Works ...................................... 23 Projected numbers for 2012 ........................... 23 2012 – 120 Years............................................ 23 Capital works for 2012 .................................... 23
Glossary of terms .................................. 25
Letter of Compliance ............................. 27
Financial Statements ............................ 28
Communication objective
Purpose of the Report
The Rockhampton Girls Grammar School 2010
Annual Report of the Board of Trustees for the
Minister for Education and Industrial Relations has
been prepared in accordance with the requirements
of Section 49 of the Financial and Performance
Management Standard 2009.
The Report:
highlights the achievements of the School;
profiles the history of the school;
details school management and governance;
outlines progress against the objectives of the
School‟s Strategic Business Plan 2009-12;
provides an Outlook for 2011; and
provides a copy of the audited financial;
statements (as required under Section 62 of the
Financial Accountability Act 2009).
Availability of the Report
Copies of this Report are available from:
The Secretary to the Board of Trustees
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
PO Box 776
Rockhampton Q 4700
Phone: 07 4930 0900
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rggs.qld.edu.au
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Our school
Our values
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School is a learning community founded on a commitment to ‘Learning for Life’. Each member of our School family contributes to sustaining an environment in which individuals actively engage in their learning; where School values are embraced; where mutual and self-respect is practised; where community and global citizenship is fostered and where excellence in every endeavour is sought and celebrated.
Our history
In 1883 a movement began to establish a girls
grammar school in Rockhampton and with a
decision by the Trustees of the Rockhampton
Grammar School to close their female department,
the Rockhampton Girls Grammar School began to
take enrolments.
The prime site on the Athelstane Range was
selected as being appropriate and in 1891,
construction commenced on the School building,
designed by Mr E.M. Hockings, to accommodate 50
day and 20 boarding students.
The School was established under the Grammar
Schools Act 1860 and is one of the eight original
Grammar Schools of Queensland. It continues to
function as a Statutory Body under the Grammar
Schools Act 1975 and its amendments.
The building was enlarged three times - in 1897,
1899 and again in 1901 - to meet growing demands
as students were enrolled from kindergarten to
matriculation.
RGGS opened its doors to the first four boarders
and thirty-three day students on 11th March, 1892.
With Miss Helen E. Downs as foundation
Headmistress, the School was officially opened on
19 April 1892.
On the departure of Miss Downs, the School
presented her with a gold replica of the School
badge, and on her death she bequeathed it to the
School to be worn by the Head Prefect who was to
be known as the Helen E. Downs Prefect.
Prue McKeague was a 1985 senior who died during
the Christmas holidays. At the suggestion of some
of her classmates and the Old Girls Association, a
platinum replica of the Helen E. Downs badge was
commissioned.
This badge of office is worn during the year by the
other Head Prefect who is referred to as the Prue
McKeague Prefect.
Our present
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School (RGGS or
Girls Grammar) is set atop Athelstane Range
overlooking Rockhampton, Queensland.
Rockhampton is regarded as a leading centre of
education for students of all ages.
RGGS is an independent non-denominational school for girls offering day and boarding facilities for the continuous education of students from Prep to Year 12 with boarding from Year 6. Students come from diverse backgrounds across the state, the Northern Territory and internationally.
Besides offering excellent educational opportunities
for primary and secondary school students in
Central Queensland, continuing students also have
access to CQUniversity which has established a
first-class reputation for its educational offerings,
particularly in Business, Health and Engineering.
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The School also works in partnership with the
Rockhampton College of TAFE which offers an
excellent variety of courses and study options for
girls seeking to broaden their education. Our girls
have the option of taking up school-based
traineeships and vocational education (Voc Ed)
subjects as part of their courses.
The School provides a smooth transition across three levels: Junior School (Prep–Yr 6), Middle School (Yr 7-9) and Senior School (Yr 10-12).
Boarding students are accommodated in three separate boarding houses (Kollar, Jackson and Luck). Kollar House provides single rooms, with separate internet and phone access for senior students.
RGGS began the 2010 school year with 311 students of whom 133 were boarders and 178 were day pupils.
Photo 1: Paterson House
Our year in review
Chairman’s speech night address
Tonight marks another milestone in the school‟s
history. With a passion and a vision for the
education of young women and more than 25 years‟
experience in education and educational leadership,
I would like to welcome and formally introduce to
you our new Principal, Ms Melinda Scash.
We also have two very special guests tonight, our
guest speaker, an “Old Girl” and a graduate of the
class of 1930, Mrs Dot Donald OAM and also a lady
who holds a special place in the school and the
hearts of our graduating students, our recently
retired Principal Mrs Bev Mouritz.
I am pleased to announce that the Minister for
Education and Training, the Hon. Geoff Wilson has
appointed Dr Judith Hancock, Mrs Vicki Bastin-
Byrne and Mr John Bryant to the Board of Trustees.
Congratulations and welcome to the School.
It would be remiss of me not to also acknowledge
and thank Mr David Loader who was pivotal in the
recruitment of the new school principal and once
again interrupted his busy schedule to act in this
position for a short period in 2010.
With the support of the Queensland Government,
we have been able to make a significant investment
in capital improvements over the past four years
and I hope that you have all had the opportunity to
see the new science labs, the new library and
multimedia area, refurbished classrooms, the new
shaded play area for primary students and of course
the new school bus. We have also invested in a
complete upgrade of the IT infrastructure and the
Principal will talk more on the development of new
educational approaches that will provide rich
learning opportunities for our girls.
The school‟s financial position in 2010 remains
strong and the school continues to meet and in
many cases exceed the key performance indicators
required by the Queensland State Government.
The financial strategy for 2011 is to consolidate and
deliver a balanced budget that will ensure a solid
platform to deliver new programs and leverage the
opportunities provided to us through innovative use
of our new infrastructure.
We are fortunate to have outstanding teachers and
staff all of whom I thank for their commitment and
dedication to the education of the young women of
the Rockhampton Girls Grammar School. Our
boarding facilities are second to none and under the
guidance of Mrs Jo Carroll, our student numbers
have continued to grow despite other comparable
schools experiencing a decline in boarding numbers
in recent times.
I would like to acknowledge and thank all of the
parents and students who have worked so hard to
raise money for the school, especially the P&F, the
Race Day committee and the Old Girls Association
for their passion, commitment, dedication and
ongoing support. You will have noticed the new
fencing along Agnes Street which has lifted the
street presentation enormously. This has been
organised by the P&F and I thank all those who
donated their time and resources to this worthy
endeavour.
The RGGS Race Day is a major event in the
Rockhampton calendar and was once again an
outstanding success. Thank you to the Race Day
committee, our sponsors and all those supporting
this outstanding event.
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I extend a warm welcome to the families who have
joined the school in 2010 and encourage all parents
to be actively involved in the school projects and
activities. It is through your support and dedication
and the continued strong support from our sponsors
and the community in general that or school
continues to prosper and grow.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I congratulate
all of you, who through your efforts throughout the
year, will receive awards this evening and of course
to those of you in Year 12 who are about to leave us
and choose your own road.
To the Year 12 girls I would like to leave you with a
quote from Richard Bach:
„Don‟t be dismayed by good-byes. A farewell is
necessary before you can meet again. And meeting
again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for
those who are friends.”
I congratulate and thank you for the contribution that
you have made to the Rockhampton Girls Grammar
School and wish you well.
Mr Philip Hancock
Chairman of the Board of Trustees
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Our learning environment Our organisational structure
Figure 1 – Organisational Chart
Chairman and Board of Trustees
Principal
Board Secretary
Assistant Principal Boarding
Deputy Principal Finance Manager
Principal‟s Assistant
Assistant Deputy Principal
Classroom teachers (P-12)
Librarian
Ancillary staff
Boarding supervisors
Learning support teacher
Health care professional
RGGS Parents & Friends Association Inc
& Support Groups
RGGS Old Girls‟ Association Inc
Bursar
Debtors Clerk
Enterprise Manager
Deputy Principal‟s Assistant
Creditors Clerk
Receptionist
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Academic highlights
The 2010 National Assessment Program: Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) demonstrated strength across all year levels.
At Year 3 100% of students were on or above the NMS (National Minimum Standard). At Year 5 in Reading, Writing and Grammar and Punctuation 100% of the girls were on or above the NMS and 92% in Spelling and Numeracy. At Year 7 Writing, Spelling and Numeracy recorded 94% reached the NMS and 88% respectively for Reading and Numeracy. At Year 9 Writing and Numeracy were in the 90% range, Reading 88%, Spelling 85% and Grammar and Punctuation 88%.
Table 1 – NAPLAN results
NAPLAN Testing Summary School Mean
State Mean
Year 3
Grammar/Punctuation 427 398
Numeracy 362 378
Reading 424 393
Spelling 411 371
Writing 400 402
Total Mean 405 388
Year 5
Grammar/Punctuation 499 483
Numeracy 448 474
Reading 472 468
Spelling 475 468
Writing 489 472
Total Mean 477 473
Year 7
Grammar/Punctuation 506 529
Numeracy 529 546
Reading 538 537
Spelling 560 535
Writing 524 531
Total Mean 531 536
Year 9
Grammar/Punctuation 601 573
Numeracy 593 577
Reading 589 564
Spelling 602 573
Writing 615 574
Total Mean 600 572
VET report
RGGS consolidated its vocational education and training program in 2010 through developing a centralised, electronic VET documentation system, updating all VET policies and procedures, and conducting VET professional development and validation/moderation sessions for VET Teachers.
Participation in School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SATs) and in the Education and Training Reforms for the Future (ETRF) courses offered at TAFE was strong. RGGS continued to offer the Certificate II in Workplace Practices, Certificate I in Business and Certificate I in Information Technology for Year 10 students and Certificate II in Business, Certificate II in Information Technology and Certificate I in Hospitality in the school VET program. Enrolment in these subjects with embedded VET has increased significantly in 2010.
Quality improvement was a continuing focus during the year, with the VET Coordinator implementing reporting on the AQTF Quality Indicators.
The RGGS VET program is providing students with wide-ranging benefits, from work-readiness and experience with competency-based training to additional points towards their QCE.
Table 2 – School based traineeships 2010
No of Students
Year Traineeship
1 11 Certificate II in Community Pharmacy
1 12 Certificate II in Agriculture
Table 3 – ETRF TAFE courses 2010
No of Students
Year Course
1 8 Certificate I in Hospitality
1 11 Certificate II in Retail Services
1 12 Certificate II in Community Services (Aged Care)
2 11 Certificate II in Hairdressing
2 11/12 Certificate II in Hospitality
Table 4 – VET courses RGGS School Program
No of Students
Year Course
35 11/12 Certificate II in Business
36 11/12 Certificate II in Information Technology
12 11/12 Certificate I in Hospitality Practices
26 10 Certificate I in Business
31 10 Certificate I in Information Technology
55 10 Certificate II in Work Practices
As a small school with a clientele from various backgrounds, we acknowledge the achievements of those students who followed a vocational pathway (31 of our graduates were awarded one or more VET qualifications) plus the academic achievers.
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OP results
Table 5 – Comparative OP results 2004-2010
Year OP Band 1 - 5 OP Band 1 - 15
2004 RGGS State
15.55% 15.2%
60%
53.58%
2005 RGGS State
38.7%
16.41%
87.09% 56.43%
2006 RGGS State
17.94% 17.16%
74.35% 58.37%
2007 RGGS State
12.9%
17.02%
54.85% 58.09%
2008 RGGS State
32.5%
17.51%
72.5%
60.89%
2009 RGGS State
14%
18.33%
65% 73%
2010 RGGS State
9%
19%
67% 75%
Over the past seven years, as is evidenced in the
table above, the School‟s OP results have reflected
the diverse nature of the School‟s population.
The following figure indicates the first round of tertiary offers made to the 2010 applicants of RGGS.
Figure 2 – 2010 preferences and QTAC offers
Additional achievements
Girls Grammar students continue to demonstrate excellence in academic competitions including the:
University of New South Wales quizzes
CQUniversity Annual Titration Competition – The Year 12 team received a silver medallion for the National Titration Competition in 2010
A Year 12 student was a successful applicant into the National Youth Science Forum trip to Russia in June to tour the space facility. She was selected as one of six Australian students to be offered this prestigious opportunity.
Three senior students who entered the recent Rockhampton and District Secondary Schools Science competition were ultimate winners on the night.
Cultural achievements
At commencement of the 2010 academic year the RGGS Wind Band was selected as one of ten school and community bands from around the world to compete in the prestigious 2011 Pacific Basin Music Festival in Honolulu, Hawaii. This offer followed a stringent audition process involving 20 minutes of performance footage and a written overview of the Band‟s achievements on the international stage in the three years since its formation. As a result of this acceptance, 39 RGGS musicians and their conductor will fly to Hawaii in March of 2011 to represent not only RGGS, but also Australia.
With the Wind Band undergoing twice-weekly rehearsals in preparation for the Pacific Basin Music Festival, 2010 saw the Wind Band achieve Champion Secondary School Band at the annual Eisteddfod for the first time in the School‟s history. The Stage Band and condensed Wind Ensemble collected third in their respective categories. The Primary Choir won the trophy for primary schools with an enrolment of fewer than 100 students.
The annual Music Showcase Evening concert saw performances by students involved in the School‟s Music Program as well as all instrumental and vocal ensembles including the Wind Band, Stage Band, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, Primary Choir, Senior Choir, Primary Folk Group and the high school Chamber Singers.
Year 11/12 Drama class participated in an acting workshop run by the Queensland Theatre Company.
The Year 9/10 classes further developed their dramatic skills in improvisation, developing of scripted performances from the plays “Fossils” and “So Much to Tell You”. They studied units on Children‟s Theatre and worked collaboratively to research an issue of interest and develop a series of scenes or „episodes‟ that effectively portrayed their issue.
Year 8 students were exposed to a range of dramatic techniques including improvisation, mime
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and rehearsal skills. They performed “Snow White and the Dreadful Dwarfs” and “Hating Alison Ashley”.
Art students showcased the work of all Girls Grammar art students on the evening of “Girls Rock”.
Ten Year 8 students and Year 9 students of Japanese at RGGS headed to Japan in December 2010 for two weeks of sightseeing and cultural immersion. The visit included living for four days with Japanese families in a Home Stay environment. The girls spent time in Tokyo, stayed in a traditional Ryokan, visited temples, shrines and the Hiroshima Peace Park. Another tour to Japan is proposed for April 2012.
Public speaking, and the confidence it develops in young people, is a strong component of Girls Grammar ethos. The annual School Oratory Competition and interschool Debating competitions encourage secondary students to appreciate and develop oration skills needed.
The winner of the Year 12 Oration Competition delivered the Valedictory Speech on Speech Night. Her speech captured the emotion of the moment.
Beyond the school gates, an RGGS student competed in the Lions Youth of the Year 2010 and won through to the regional final.
Sporting highlights
Girls Grammar continues to have strong representation in a variety of sports. Participation is encouraged for the physical, emotional and social benefits sport offers and we acknowledge the high standards to which some of our students aspire.
2010 has brought RGGS students opportunities to join a variety of Interschool sporting competitions, with some students participating in up to three different sports throughout the year. Sports included Indoor and Outdoor Netball, Water Polo, Soccer, AFL, Touch Football, Basketball and Rowing.
Selected students were chosen for the QISSN Netball and All Schools Touch Football teams. The two carnivals allowed our students to compete against other schools from all regions of Queensland and interstate.
Three students also competed at State level in 2010 in the following fields:
Touch Football
Netball
Squash
One student achieved selection to represent Australia in Under 18 Touch Football. RGGS again successfully nominated a student for the annual Pierre de Coubertin award.
Photo 2: RGGS Quad Scull training on the Fitzroy Rowing Course In 2010, the RGGS Rowing Team had an intake of 20 students who completed a Learn to Row term and then continued their training through to November. They learnt the safety drills, practised basic skills and formed crews. The crews competed in a mini regatta on the Fitzroy River achieving one first place and one second place.
Dance was added to the list of co-curricular activities being offered in 2010. Students have participated in eisteddfods, cultural evenings and at Rockhampton‟s 2010 Dance Festival. They achieved a second
place in the hip-hop section with
the fast paced routine “Jump”. The Sport Aerobics and Senior Hip Hop team won gold medals at the School Aerobics 2010 Queensland Spring Challenge on the Gold Coast in November.
Community connections
Early in Term 1, the students raised funds for the Red Kite Foundation. The Red Kite foundation supports children and their families dealing with cancer.
RGGS students participated in: Blood Bank, Australia‟s Biggest Morning Tea, Pink Ribbon Day, Relay for Life, Red Cross Door Knock Appeal and Jeans for Genes Day and Daffodil Day, ANZAC Day commemorative services and Clean-up Australia Day.
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Photo 3: Clean Up Australia Day
Our people
Staff profile
In 2010 RGGS had 28 teaching, 7 non-teaching, 8 boarding and 4 administrative staff members who are led by a strong leadership team comprising the Principal, Deputy Principal, Assistant Principal Boarding, Finance Manager and Bursar.
The Principal, Mrs Bev Mouritz retired mid-year and was replaced by Ms Melinda Scash who joined the School after a two year posting in the United Arab Emirates. Her role there was to work directly with principals and to lead a team of international educators working with local staff in schools to raise student achievement.
Photo 4: Mrs Bev Mouritz (retiring Principal) and Ms Melinda Scash (new Principal)
Table 6 - Staff (August 2010 census)
FTE 2010 2009 2008
Teaching 26.7 27.1 26.6
Non-Teaching 16.6 12.1 11.2
Boarding 8 8.2 9.9
Total 51.3 47.4 47.7
Staff relations
Due to changing industrial relations environment, a formal Enterprise Bargaining Agreement was not finalised with staff in 2010. However, payment of the next 4.5% salary increase was made in July 2010. Discussions will recommence early in 2011 with a view to extending the agreement period.
Staff retention
From the end of 2009, the School achieved a retention rate of 93%.
No packages for early retirement, redundancy or retrenchment have been offered to staff during 2010.
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School supports the Queensland Carers Charter as detailed in the Carers (Recognition) Act 2008, through the flexible work practices and remote access facilities available to our staff. RGGS ensures staff are provided with relevant information and support as required.
Effective 1 January 2011, the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994 has been repealed and replaced by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010. During 2010 RGGS received no public interest disclosures, in accordance with the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2010.
RGGS has various policies and procedures including a Board Code of Conduct Policy and a Staff Code of Conduct that is included in all Letters of Appointment.
Staff professional development
Professional Development for staff included the following:
Table 7 – Staff professional development
Activity No staff
AEIA Essentially Curricula 2
AGQTP – Professional Learning Program 2
Australian Copyright Council 1
BEAQ Conference 2
Beyond NAPLAN: Thinking past the quick fix 1
Bullying & Cyber Bullying by Carr-Gregg 2
Cert IV in Training and Assessment 1
CQ Carbon Forum 1
Cyber Bullying, Cyber Safety 1
Rockhampton District Science Forum 2
Get Active QLD Accreditation Program 2
HEIA State Conference 2
ICTL‟s in the Middle Years 2
ISQ Biennial School Officers Conference 2
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Activity No staff
ISQ Briefing – Australian Curriculum 2
ISQ Helping Children with Autism 2010 1
ISQ PAL Project Refinement Day 2
ISQ Planning for all Learners 2
ISQ Professional Learning Activity 2
Literacy Solutions – Beyond NAPLAN 1
LOTE – Workshop – Critical Agendas 1
Moodle Teacher Training 1
MYSA Travelling Scholar 1
National Education Psychology Conference 1
Planning for Excellence in Education 2
QCAN State Conference 2
QCT – Provisional Regional info Session 2
QSA Annual Conference – Shared Vision 1
QSA Assessment in Drama 1
QSA Careers Development Course 2
QSA Introducing the Home Ec Syllabus 2010 1
QSA Panel Training A44 Chemistry 1
School Nurses Association Annual Conference 1
School Safety Conference 2010 1
SMA Qld Course Level 1 Sports Trainer 1
State Panel Conference Home Economics 1
Targeting Opportunities for Literacy in Prep 2
VET Symposium – Voc Ed Learning Group 1
Figure 3 - Teacher qualifications (Dec 2010)
Highest level of
attainment
Teachers at the school
Doctorate 2
Masters 1
Bachelor degree
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Diploma 3
Total 28
School profile
Student information
Table 8 - Enrolments (August 2010 census)
2010 Budget 2009 2008
Boarders 130 125 144 138
Day Students 188 184 171 177
Total 318 309 315 315
School enrolments as at the August 2010 census date (as tabled above) showed the total number of students at 318. Student numbers at the end of 2010 year were 324.
Table 9 - Enrolments Year Level (Aug 2010 census)
2010 Budget 2009 2008
Years P-7 106 95 91 89
Years 8-12 212 214 224 226
Total 318 309 315 315
Enrolments in the Years P-7 continue to show increases against previous year figures.
Table 10 - Student apparent retention rate
Year Year 8 Base
Year Year 12
Retention rate %
2003 27 2007 51 188.8
2004 43 2008 51 119.0
2005 36 2009 50 138.9
2006 36 2010 42 116.6
Year 8 to 12 apparent retention rate is defined as the number of full-time students in Year 12 in any given year expressed as the percentage of those students who started secondary school five years previously. RGGS continues to achieve a greater than 100% retention rate.
Scholarships & bursaries
RGGS participates in the Cooperative Scholarship Testing Program (CSTP) through the Australian Council for Education Research (ACER) for the awarding of scholarships for students entering Years 7 to 12.
The School also offers academic, cultural and sporting scholarships as well a number of bursaries to assist students to gain access to a quality education at RGGS.
In 2010, the School awarded 14 bursaries, 12 ACER scholarships, three academic scholarships, two sporting scholarship (one for Athletics and one Elite).
The Rock Building Society has partnered with the School to provide a Rock Building Society Scholarship for a student entering RGGS in 2011.
Table 11 – Staff/student ratios
2010 2009 2008
Enrolments 318 315 315
Teaching Staff 26.7 27.1 26.6
Ratio 11.9 11.6 11.8
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The staff:student ratio for the year 2010 calculated at 1:11.9.
Curriculum directions
Over the past two years the process of curriculum review and reform has been initiated. The process incorporated the implementation of a uniform method of recording work programs and unit design where Essential Learnings were embedded and common curriculum elements were evidenced as implicitly learned and explicitly taught across Years P-10.
For the express purpose of quality assurance in 2010, an internal audit of all Learning Areas across P-10 was carried out. The audit was utilised as a mapping tool to monitor work programs and teaching and learning practices within the prior
context.
To support the audit, secondary teachers were provided with a Work Plan document (QSA website) to individually or collectively use to record where they had embedded Essential Learnings in their units of work. It was a very comprehensive tool for identifying any gaps in planning.
Primary teachers were provided with a document for each year level juncture (Years 3, 5 and 7). This document is a planning and auditing document also available from the QSA website. Auditing is a much more complicated process at the primary level than the clearly defined secondary KLA fields of teaching and learning.
The annual RGGS QCS Conference was held at Ferns Hideaway at Byfield in the final week of Term 1. This camp is an integral and highly informative part of our school‟s preparatory processes for the tests. Students who were OP eligible, or were planning to receive a Ranking at the end of Year 12, attended the two and a half day retreat.
They were exposed to a comprehensive program of intensive listening, interpretation, discussion and application of knowledge. They were introduced to the „whys‟ and „hows‟ of the tests and the ways of interpreting and approaching each test.
Students sat for a two day practice in July and their responses were outsourced for marking and individual advice. This information was followed up internally with meeting times set aside for each student. As an outcome of the results of the practice Writing Task, Multiple Choice and Short Response tests conducted at the QCS Conference, the weekly QCS class practice sessions were redesigned this year to teach students strategies in approaching the tests and specifically address individual needs through
the Respect, Responsibility and Resilience model of learning designed by the Deputy Principal:
Respect for their own levels of knowledge and understanding;
Responsibility to themselves as individuals and as a member of the cohort;
Resilience when faced with questions that at first glance might appear too difficult.
Photo 5: Seniors 2010
Reporting
RGGS reports comment on each student‟s progress in individual subjects according to a three step process: Strengths; Weaknesses (if any), Suggestions.
This enables each teacher to communicate, within the context of their subject, in a way that clearly articulates a student‟s strengths and highlights areas of learning or application to learning which could be improved.
Each report for students in Years 7 – 12 is accompanied by a five-point achievement scale of A-E. This scale measures each student‟s achievement against the overall distribution of peer achievements within the subject studied. The numbers listed equate with the academic placements of the whole year-level cohort in that subject.
Pastoral care
In 2010 staff developed a Pastoral Care Program where themes of personal development and respect were explored with students. Each year level had small Care groups which were involved in a range of conversations and activities.
This new program was overseen by two Coordinators, the Deputy Principal and the School Counsellor. Prep - Year 6 guided by the Deputy Principal; Year 7 - Year 9 guided by the Middle School Pastoral Care Coordinator; Year 10 - Year
13
12 guided by the Senior School Pastoral Care Coordinator. Our School Counsellor was involved in all year levels to support Care staff.
Restorative Practices were used throughout the year.
School management
Leadership Team
The School is managed by the Senior Leadership Team which comprises:
Ms Melinda Scash (Principal from July 2010) BEd (Language, Literature, Psychology), MACE, MACEL
Ms Deb Owens (Deputy Principal) (resigned 31 December 2010) MArts, GradDip Women‟s Studies, BA, DipEd
Mrs Sandra McClelland (Bursar)
Mrs Josephine Carroll (Assistant Principal Boarding) CertT
Dr John Fry (Assistant Deputy Principal) BAppSc (Phys) (Hons); GradDipT (Sec); PhD
Mrs Lauren Sharpe (Finance Manager) BBus, CPA
Mr Robin Fay (Enterprise Manager) BDesSt (Arch) (see Figure 1 – Organisational Chart 2010 – page 5).
The School’s financial systems
The School uses The Alpha School System (TASS) which is the main database system that contains the accounting ledgers, billing and student management systems.
MYOB Fixed Assets module is used to record and monitor the schools assets and Attache for the School‟s payroll system.
Mrs Lauren Sharpe is responsible for the School‟s financial operations. Mrs Sharpe is a Qualified Certified Practising Accountant.
Annual audit
The RGGS Board of Trustees is a body corporate originally established in 1892 under the Grammar Schools Act 1860 and now operates under the Grammar Schools Act 1975, the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Financial and Performance Management Standard 2009 and as a statutory body under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982.
The Board is subject to an annual audit by the Queensland Audit Office (QAO) under the Auditor-General Act 2009.
In 2006, tenders were called by QAO with Prosperity Audit Services winning the contract for three years which was later extended for another two years. This is therefore Prosperity Audit Services last audit year with Rockhampton Girls Grammar School, as Bentley‟s Brisbane (Audit) Pty Ltd has been appointed as the contract auditor for financials years ending 2011, 2012 and 2013.
The results of the 2010 Annual Audit were satisfactory and accordingly, Prosperity Audit Services have issued an unqualified audit opinion.
In the opinion of the Board of Trustees, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the School will be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.
Information systems and record keeping
Throughout 2010, RGGS has continued to implement sound record keeping practices in accordance with provisions of the Public Records Act 2002, Information Standard 40: Recordkeeping and Information Standard 31; Retention and Disposal of Public Records..
School location and contact details
RGGS is located on approximately six (6) hectares of Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT) land on the corner of Denham and Agnes Streets, overlooking the city centre of Rockhampton, Queensland. Contact details are as follows:
Postal Address: PO Box 776, Rockhampton Q 4700 Telephone No: 07 4930 0912 Facsimile No: 07 4930 0981 Email Address: [email protected] Internet Address: www.rggs.qld.edu.au
School support groups
The Parents & Friends Assoc Inc (P&F)
Report by Mr Ken Murphy (President): Since the last report, the P&F has held a very successful Bulls-n-Barrels event at the Great Western Arena. The event has become a huge fundraiser for the P&F and would never be possible without the support from the owners of the Great Western Arena. The event has continued to grow with excellent publicity from the local and state media for the school. A large donation was once again made to the Queensland Cancer Council for breast cancer research.
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The remaining funds from this event have been used to pay for construction of the second stage of the smart new fencing along Agnes Street. Gathering parents and friends of the school together creates a wonderful atmosphere of friendship and this is a hallmark of RGGS that is the envy of other schools in the district. Many thanks to all those sponsors and families, who have supported the event in so many ways.
The annual elections of the P&F were held in February. I was re-elected as President with Mr Greg MacKenzie and Mr Brett Nicholls as Vice-Presidents, Mrs Jenny Leyden as Secretary and Mrs Julie Murphy as Treasurer. Thank you to those people for accepting the positions and working tirelessly throughout the year.
The Carnival Morning Tea was held once again in the new shade shelter. Students provided entertainment and also waited on the tables. Thank you to the businesses that supported the event with multi-draw raffle prizes, parents who supplied the food and the patrons of the event. Once again this is an opportunity for the school to go on display to the greater community.
Members of the P&F worked with the Race Day committee to ensure the Race Day was a huge success again this year. P&F members cooked during the week, set up at Callaghan Park and worked throughout the afternoon whilst maintaining good humour throughout despite the inclement weather.
The P&F shop continued to run very efficiently under the supervision of Mrs Debbie Hunt. The shop was opened for a few hours during the pupil free days in second and third terms to allow greater access for parents. Appointments have been arranged to cater for new and continuing students and these have worked well.
The Cattle Club has remained inactive during the year and with the extremely poor seasonal conditions rural families struggled with last year, this has been a good decision.
As the year draws to a close and many families leave the school, may I thank you on behalf of the P&F for your support throughout the years. It has been a pleasure to work with you all.
On behalf of all P&F members may I take this opportunity to thank Mrs Mouritz for her cooperation and assistance throughout the year and we wish her well for the future. With her guidance the school has continued to rebuild and I am sure that the future is now strong as it faces the future. I also take this opportunity to welcome Ms Scash to the school and we look forward to working closely with her.
As this is my last year as President of the P&F, I thank all of the school community for their support. It has been a wonderful and fulfilling journey. Thank you
The RGGS Race Day Committee Inc
Report by Mrs Vicki Jackson (Chairperson): As 2010 Girls Grammar Race dawned, I watched the skies with nervous anticipation. Always mindful that one year would see wet weather, our committee had often considered contingency plans with the hope we would never need to put them in place.
The upgrading of the track by the Rockhampton Jockey Club had reduced our area available to set up Gazebos on the running rail. Fortunately because of that, we had organised for a second marquee, the Gazebo Marquee, to be erected and we were able to move the front tables further into the Marquee to avoid the showers. My sincere apologies to those who were a little cosy, however we thought guests would prefer intimacy over being showered.
The committee, again forced by the erosion of our space by the track upgrade, elected to cater only for two areas this year instead of three which in previous years had included a separate concourse bar area. As it turned out, the decision made little or no impact upon the income raised and certainly the decision made it easier for our bar and wait staff.
We gratefully appreciated the continuing sponsorship from the local business community who maintained their corporate sponsorship in what had been a difficult financial year for business. Many of our corporate sponsors include those initial sponsors in 2002. Our corporate marquee was filled to capacity and interested sponsors remain on a waiting list.
Photo 6: RGGS P&F Bulls n Barrels Fundraising
The reunions swelled our numbers in the Gazebo Marquee as past students rekindled acquaintances. To my surprise horror, netball was playing on the big screen in the marquee instead of the races due to
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some technical interference beyond our control. Mostly, our guests were good humoured about the problem or amidst the frivolity of the day they did not notice.
As in past years my committee is indebted to the school chef Mark Thompson whose food was superb and commented upon by guests. Our day would not be possible without the untiring efforts of Miriam Gunn and Pat O‟Beirne (and family) and the hospitality students. The students‟ professionalism is commendable. Once again we were fortunate to have Chris Gillogley, a professional in the hospitality industry, formerly of Cassidy‟s Seafood and Steakhouse and now of Dan Murphy‟s to assist the students. His leadership by example in the Corporate Marquee is a great inspiration to the students.
My gratitude extends to the school community who bought or sold raffle tickets on behalf of our cause, as well as those parents who, though unable to sell raffle tickets, made a generous donation to our fundraising efforts. My special thanks to members of the Old Girls Association for their contribution to the raffle.
Members of the P&F took up jobs on the day and most importantly Ken Murphy ably managed the bar with his many helpers drawn from the school community as well as the Outriggers Club. A special thank you to all parents and friends.
Television and newspaper coverage of the event was extensive under the capable organisation of Wendy Mulry who once again coordinated both publicity and the fashions in the field which attracts enormous interest.
Finally, I wish to acknowledge the loyalty and support of my committee members. Wendy Mulry who through her media and travel career, provides incredible publicity and financial sponsorship both personally and from her corporate contacts. Glenys Orford, a school parent who together with her husband Wayne, a builder (how lucky!) is ever prepared to run errands, undertake carpentry and other practical tasks on short notice, and decorate the magnificent bougainvillea arch for which Girls Grammar Race Day is renowned. The entry was complemented by the magnificent floral display provided by the Dargel Family of Fitzroy Nurseries.
My appreciation to committee member Veronica Goddard and her husband who each year, are our gate keepers, ensuring smooth entry to our area. Veronica kindly volunteered to coordinate the raffle which can at times be a most unrewarding and frustrating task however whatever is made from the raffle ultimately benefits the school. Jenny Luck is always prepared to undertake any task allotted to her and it is particularly reassuring to have an
experienced hand (past student and teacher) to help with volunteers.
We welcomed Merin Weston to the committee as the coordinator with the school who ably kept open the line of communication between the school and our committee. A special thanks to the committee secretary Holly Smith and my personal assistants Nicole Svensen and Raelene Perkins who ably assisted in administrative tasks. The committee is also indebted to Sally and Alyssa at the school reception and Kim in the Principal‟s office who are always ever willing to pass on messages and assist where necessary.
It is only with such loyal support from the workers and the business community that the Race Day is able to continue as a significant fundraiser for the school. Preparations are already underway for the 2011 Girls Grammar Race Day on Saturday 18 June 2011. PLEASE MARK YOUR DIARIES.
The RGGS – Old Girls’ Assoc Inc (OGA)
Report by Ms Jill Liddell (Vice-President): This report of the RGGS Old Girls‟ Association (OGA) reflects on a year with a difference. It is the first time in the history of our Association that we have been without a President. Nominations were not forthcoming for the position prior to the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 2 March, 2010 - nor have any been received since then. As the retiring President, I accepted nomination and was elected to the role of Vice-President. It is in that capacity I have been fulfilling the „presidential‟ role!. Hopefully this explains the title at the head of this report.
The other office bearers elected at that time were as follows:
President: - Vice-President: Jill Liddell Secretary: Betty Spence School Liaison Officer: Margaret Black Treasurer: Shelley Chisholm Membership Secretary and Chit Chat Editor: Marilyn Watts
Continuing Committee Members: Jan Davison;
Lurline Jones; Linley Kingsley; Margaret Littleton; Janet McKenzie; Margo McKenzie; Robyn Meredith; Val Phillips; Beryl Thompson and Beverly Young.
It was with much enthusiasm that we welcomed a new Committee member, Shelby Goddard. Shelby graduated from Year 12 in 2009 so she is certainly the youngest committee member known to me in my time with our OGA. It is most exciting to have her as one of our dynamic team.
Secretary Betty Spence continues doing her splendid job of keeping our Minutes accurate,
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correspondence up-to-date, being mindful of tasks to be done and generally having her finger on the pulse at all times. Her efforts are appreciated very much indeed.
Treasurer Shelley Chisholm accepted nomination and was re-elected for her third year. It is of concern to me how she will be replaced? She oversees the finances of our Association meticulously. Thank you so very much Shelley. Janet McKenzie works closely with Shelley at audit time and for that we are also very grateful as this helps the Association‟s budget very much. Thank you, Janet.
Liaison Officer Margaret Black is of course the „constant‟ of our OGA. Her dedication to, knowledge of and work done on behalf of our OGA is mammoth. Any success I may have had as President and now one year as Vice-President is due to Margie‟s patience with my forgetfulness and quiet support in helping me to get things done. She‟s not only a personal pal from our school days but a fine example of what our Association is all about. Endless, sincere thanks Margaret.
In her capacity as Membership Secretary and Chit Chat Editor, Marilyn Watts also continues to do a sterling job. Words really fail me in trying to thank Marilyn. With our OGA membership totalling 685 as at 1
st November 2010, that indicates the work
involved in coping with invoices, over-dues, lost members, setting the Chit Chat up for publication –and that‟s just for starters. Our thanks really are immeasurable. Simply and sincerely – thank you Marilyn.
I would like to add an additional “Thank You” to Margaret Littleton. In the absence of a President, and with the newly elected Vice President absent for three months overseas, Margaret stepped in to chair meetings and provide general support in her capacity as the immediate past Vice-President. I would like to thank her publicly for this – and her stalwart on-going support of our OGA.
My final thanks are many indeed for the newly elected and re-elected committee members. I am comfortable in knowing that I can always call on them for information, support, replies to queries sent via email, providing small gifts for the June luncheon, folding Chit-Chats if they can and just generally being excellent committee members. Thank you one and all.
As always, branch luncheons continue to be a highlight of the OGA year. The fun and chatter on these occasions is uplifting. The lunch gatherings this year were held in Yeppoon (May), Rockhampton (June), Gladstone (July), Townsville (August), Biloela (September), and Brisbane (November). Unfortunately, Mackay did not have their usual luncheon get-together this year.
Thanks must be extended to Denise Woods (Edwards) of Stewart‟s Department store for her donation of a Lucky Door Prize for our Queensland Day June luncheon held again at Signatures Restaurant. The lucky winner was Pam Jensen – a just reward for her travelling in from Biloela for this occasion.
A warm welcome was also extended to Rob Fay, the newly appointed Enterprise Manager. This role is an important link between the OGA and the school itself and we welcome his interest and support of our Association with his attendance not only to the June luncheon but also Yeppoon and Biloela as well. Thank you very much Rob.
We are always doubly rewarded when the Principal is able to attend any OGA function. In June, it transpired that Bev Mouritz would be attending for the last time since she retired from her position as Principal on July 23. Whilst we wish her well, we will also miss her very much. The committee were able to express their sentiments to Bev at a lunch get-together held at Jo’s Restaurant on July 21. A small gift was presented to her at this time but the Committee also approved that Bev be accepted as an Associate Member of the OGA which recognition was given to her at her official retirement at RGGS on October 16, 2010.
As an Association, we welcome Ms Melinda Scash to her new role and look forward to working with her on projects where Old Girls may be of help and assistance.
The RGGS OGA continued to provide support to the P&F Association by attending their morning tea in May and to the RGGS Race Day Carnival Committee in June by manning a table at the point of entry to Callaghan Park and selling raffle tickets for them. Helping both of these groups in this way is a „win-win‟ for OGA members who are able to attend. We enjoy fun and fellowship while working together plus know that we are helping other important groups of the School‟s community in support of the students and teachers at RGGS.
Whilst our Chit Chat endeavours to record the loss and passing of old girls for the information of members, I would like to make mention of three very special ladies who were very supportive of our OGA. They are Lady Shirley McCamley (Tindale) who was killed in an aircraft accident earlier this year and Judy Winterbine (Dreversen) and Robyn Bryant (Millroy) who each lost their battle with cancer in June and October respectively. Their friendship enriched the lives of many and memory of them will keep us strong. They are missed.
I would also like to report on the success of the AGM of the Brisbane branch. For a period of time, it seemed that the branch was in danger of closing
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due to health concerns of the previous committee. Thanks to the wonderful efforts of our Editor, Marilyn Watts, who sent out an appeal to all Brisbane members, the following committee was elected on 21 September: President - Jan Cornfoot; Vice-President – Sandra Lewis; Secretary – Victoria McLachlan; Treasurer – Susan Mackie; Newsletter Editor – Amy Capper; Membership Secretary – Glenis Smith.
Sincere thanks go to each of those members who nominated themselves for committee positions, together with congratulations on your election to office. Thank you for your interest in keeping the Brisbane branch as a functioning body. Tribute must be paid to Betty Griffiths (Hannah) who has been President, Secretary, Treasurer and Newsletter editor single handed for quite a number of years. Her efforts went way beyond the call of duty. Thank you Betty so very much.
It is always good to have the annual Xmas dinner to look forward to as a fun – and tasty - way to close a busy and productive year. Rockhampton‟s OGA function will be held on November 12 with Brisbane‟s on November 27. Each branch will celebrate with due accord, I am sure.
In closing this annual report, it is time to offer the very best wishes from the OGA to the graduating class of 2010. We wish you every success in your respective endeavours. To those who receive a gift of Life Membership to the OGA from your family – welcome to our fellowship.
I also re-iterate sincere best wishes to our new Principal Melinda Scash. As Vice-President I have already had many productive occasions to speak with Melinda about OGA related matters and I certainly look forward to the times she is able to join in our festivities. To all members of the RGGS community, may the Christmas season be blessed with the richness of joy and love that it is meant to be.
.
Photo 7: Cutting the cake - 1954 Junior Class Reunion
School Governance
The School is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Governor in Council for a period of four years with the next election due in 2011. The Board comprises seven members: three elected by and from the Roll of Electors and four recommended by the Board for nomination by the Minister for Education and Training.
The Trustees hold office for four years and at the end of that time, are eligible for re-election or re-nomination. The Board is supported by the Secretary to the Board who also holds the role of the School Bursar.
Board membership
Ministerial Nominees
Mr Philip Hancock (Chairman) BInfoTech (CompSc) CSU, GradDip FacMgt UC Director, Division of Facilities Management, Central Queensland University (CQU)
Mr Noel Livingston (Treasurer) Licensed Real Estate Agent
Dr Judith Hancock AM (Appointed 11 November 2010) BSc, Grad Dip Ed Admin, MPhil, DUniv (QUT), MACE, LFAPC
Mr John Bryant (Appointed 11 November 2010) BBus, FCA, CMC, MAICD, MIMC
Subscriber Nominees
Ms Suzanne Phillips BA (Hons) UQ, MACE Experienced Senior Teacher Languages Education Queensland
Mrs Alice Hare BOcc.Thy UQ, ASDA Occupational Therapist, Queensland Health Teacher of Speech and Drama
Mrs Marilyn Watts (resigned 31 March 2010) GradCert (Public Sector Management) Flinders University Principal Consultant, Shared Service Agency Department of Public Works
Mrs Vicki Bastin-Byrne (Appointed 11 November 2010) Retail Business Owner
Ex-officio Members of the Board
Mrs Bev Mouritz (Principal) (resigned 23 September 2010) MEd (Mathematics), BEd, DipT QUT Grad Dip Health Promotion, MACE
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Mr David Loader OAM (Acting Principal during absences of the Principal) BSc, Med, FACE, FACEL, FAIM
Ms Melinda Scash (Principal) From August 2010 BEd (Language, Literature, Psychology), MACE, MACEL
Mrs Sandra McClelland (Bursar) Secretary to the Board of Trustees
Mrs Lauren Sharpe (Finance Manager) BBus, CPA
Board attendance
The Board met on 10 occasions during 2010. Attendances were as follows:
Phil Hancock 10/10
Noel Livingston 9/10
Suzanne Phillips 9/10
Alice Hare 8/10
Marilyn Watts 2/2
Judith Hancock 0/1
John Bryant 1/1
Vicki Bastin-Byrne 1/1
Beverley Mouritz 5/5
David Loader 2/2
Melinda Scash 3/3
Sandra McClelland 10/10
Lauren Sharpe 10/10
Board statutory functions and powers
Statutory functions of the Board are to:
supervise, maintain and control the conduct of the School for which the Board is constituted
erect, alter, add to, purchase or sell buildings used or to be used for or in connection with the School
effect general improvements to the premises used or to be used for or in connection with the School
provide in the School courses of instruction
make rules with respect to:
fees and charges to be paid in relation to students enrolled or to be enrolled at the School
management and control of the School;
discipline and conduct of students enrolled at the School.
Statutory powers of the Board of Trustees acting within the Grammar Schools Act 1975 include exercising and performing such powers, authorities,
functions and duties as are conferred or imposed upon it by the Act. Specific powers of the Board of Trustees include the power to:
make by-laws about elections under the Grammar Schools Act 1975
establish trust funds and to accept gifts and the like subject to conditions
establish investment common funds
appoint employees
establish and maintain a Superannuation Scheme subject to the Auditor-General Act 2009.
enter into financial arrangements under the Statutory Bodies Financial Arrangements Act 1982.
Board reporting
The Board is supported by the Board Secretary and two sub-committees: Finance Committee, and the Workplace Health and Safety Committee.
The Finance Committee provides advice and reports to the Board on the financial strategies and practices required to achieve sound financial corporate governance within legislative requirements.
The Workplace Health & Safety Committee presents a report to the Board each term on workplace health and safety matters.
Each month the Principal presents a report to the Board which outlines educational initiatives, staff and student welfare issues and any other matters that require Board consent or that could be of concern to the Board.
From information contained in these reports, enrolments are monitored against budget to ensure that the School is on target to meet the performance indicator benchmarks established in the Strategic Business Plan 2009-2012.
Finance committee
The Finance Committee is a sub-committee of the Board and is chaired by the Treasurer, Mr Noel Livingston.
The Committee‟s role is to oversee the financial position of the School through monitoring the budget, managing bad debts, setting financial policy, addressing financial and operational risk management and reporting matters for further discussion to the Board.
Other members of the Finance Committee are Mr Philip Hancock (Chairman of the Board) and Mr John Bryant, a Chartered Accountant and Certified
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Management Consultant who has been a financial consultant to the School for many years.
The School‟s Finance Manager attends the meetings and provides the Finance Committee with the latest financial figures for their review, discussion and recommendations.
Due to the size of the school, Rockhampton Girls Grammar does not have an Audit Committee or a Risk Management Committee. The Finance Committee is responsible for addressing these issues.
Similarly, there is no internal audit function within the school. A full year financial statement audit was conducted by Prosperity Audit Services.
Committee attendance
The Committee met on 10 occasions during 2010. Attendances were as follows:
Noel Livingston, Treasurer 10/10
Philip Hancock, Chairman 9/10
John Bryant 1/1
Bev Mouritz, Principal 6/6
David Loader, Acting Principal 1/1
Melinda Scash, Principal 3/3
Sandra McClelland, Board Secretary 8/10
Lauren Sharpe, Finance Manager 10/10
Workplace Health & Safety Committee
Membership of the RGGS Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) Committee includes the School Bursar Mrs Sandra McClelland (Chair), Workplace Health & Safety Officer (WHSO) Mr Jason Cox, Principal Ms Melinda Scash, Board Member Ms Suzanne Phillips, and representation from teaching, administrative and grounds staff and parents.
Reports presented at each meeting:
Health Centre Report
Accident and Injury Report
Rehabilitation Report
Security Log
Fire Evacuation Log
Science Report
The Bursar filled the role of WHSO (Workplace Health & Safety Officer) until the appointment of Mr Jason Cox who was welcomed at the meeting in September 2010.
The committee met throughout 2010 and discussed Workplace Health and Safety developments and new ways to improve existing frameworks. This has included:
Completion of WHS assessments on all building in the school with relevant recommendations and compliance dates.
Completion of annual emergency response training for all staff including use of emergency fire fighting equipment.
Completion of regular fire drills in both boarding and the day school.
Inclusion of WHS notices on daily notices as necessary.
Involvement of primary students in the Safe Work Australia Week in October each year.
WHSO professional development.
The committee consolidated existing workplace health and safety initiatives carried over from 2009 and examined the requirements of the new Work Health and Safety Act which comes into effect in 2012.
The WHSO attended the 2010 Safety in Schools conference and brought back to the committee important workplace health and safety initiatives for implementation in 2011. These include providing an understanding the link between the critical incident plan and the recovery management plan within the education sector.
The School underwent a Middle-sized Business Audit carried out by WHS Queensland in September 2010 and received a very positive report.
Professional Associations
Grammar Schools of Queensland Association
The School is a member of the Grammar Schools Queensland Association (GSQA). Board Member Mrs Marilyn Watts was the official delegate at one general meeting during 2010.
The Association works collectively to advance the interests of Queensland Grammar Schools established under the Grammar Schools Act of 1975 by:
Providing a forum for discussion of and information exchange about education, legal, governance, industrial relations and other issues of common interest to the Association.
Taking collective action on issues that have unanimity of agreement to act.
The Association will conduct its biannual conference in June 2011 with the host being the Toowoomba Grammar School.
Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ)
The School is a member of ISQ which represents and promotes the interests of independent schools. ISQ administers Block Grant Authority applications on behalf of the Queensland Government.
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Teaching staff members availed themselves of the many ISQ professional development opportunities during 2010. The Principal and Deputy Principal also attend the Annual ISQ Conference.
Consultancies
Financial/Accounting
Educational Financial Services:
Provision of general school and financial advice
$1,695
Procurement
Asset Technologies:
Provision of advice regarding IT
Services Upgrade
Intellibuild Australia
Provision of advice regarding Paterson
Heritage Restoration
$1,200
$1,000
Legal
Corrs Chambers Westgarth:
Provision of advice regarding
employment contracts and general
legal matters
$9,102.50
Industrial Relations
John Redsell – Employer Services:
Provision of advice on staff enterprise
bargaining negotiations (including
accommodation and travel)
Fahl ER Pty Ltd
Provision of staff mediation
Dept of Justice and Attorney
Provision of staff mediation and
debriefing
$12,233.68
$9,114
$1,042.05
Strategic Planning
Daintree Residential Pty Ltd
Provision of advice and recommendations for key strategic direction in pedagogy and long-term financial sustainability (including Accommodation and travel)
CPEM Consulting Group
Provision of advice regarding leadership direction (including accommodation)
$28,238.73
$10,324.49
Overseas travel
No overseas travel was undertaken during 2010.
Our performance in 2010
The RGGS Strategic Business Plan 2009-2012 is based on the strategic impetus to strengthen the School‘s Learning for Life ethos such that graduates of Rockhampton Girls Grammar School emerge as young women of the 21st century, prepared to meet life’s challenges, capable of problem solving for sustainability and personal, rewarding growth.
The Plan is centred around three strategic focuses:
Community promotion
High performance culture
Financial sustainability
Focus 1: Community promotion
To become known within the local and wider community as a small school with smaller than average class sizes, providing a high quality education for girls in a regional environment, boarding for country students from Year 6, staffed by quality experienced teachers and boarding mistresses, plus a Prep-Year 12 continuum of learning. We will work to ensure that this information is dispersed by word of mouth and by publicly promoting the school across a variety of media forums to:
Strategies to achieve this objective include promoting the school across a variety of media forums to:
Emphasise the uniqueness of RGGS
Establish the curriculum in the real world of industry and business, engineering sciences and environmental studies
Performance:
Registration of the School with the Industry Capability Network as a service provider to place the School at the forefront of businesses and manufacturers, particularly those expanding their role in the Central Queensland region
Strongly represented at the Rockhampton Eisteddfod.
Continuing to retain the market niche of girls only boarding through maintaining market confidence in the quality of boarding.
The Enterprise Manager continues to market the school, seeking grants and sponsorships and engaging with the business community for philanthropic support.
Developing partnerships between RGGS Science faculty and CQUniversity in relation to Science opportunities.
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Focus 2: High performance culture
To be widely recognized as a school with high expectations for endeavour from staff and students, RGGS will focus on developing a strong performance culture.
Strategies to achieve this objective of attracting and retaining high quality staff and students who thrive within the culture of performance include:
Promote broad, challenging curricular, co-curricular and pastoral programs to attract high quality staff
Recognize an engaged, satisfied culture within the school
Develop a climate easily able to attract and retain high performing staff
Performance:
Professional development for all staff at the commencement of the year on “Self and School Culture”.
Extension of working hours for School Counsellor has been very beneficial. The formation of a Student Welfare Committee which meets weekly to discuss issues and strategies to assist students at risk academically and pastorally.
A program for students of Japanese who graduated from the Immersion program at a local state school. One of the CLIP program teachers delivers the Year 8 SOSE program in Japanese on Saturday mornings.
The employment of Kerr Solutions to upgrade the technology within RGGS.
Links to be fostered with Brisbane and Townsville Universities to attract under-graduate teachers for their resident teaching placement.
Focus 3: Financial sustainability
Further build upon the School’s strong reputation of quality education within a safe, nurturing, educational environment to solidify its financial stability with the view to long term sustainability.
Strategies to achieve this objective include:
Oversee sound financial decision-making through the implementation and annual review of 5 and 10 year plans
Increase volume of students
Monitor fee structure
Reduce costs
Retain government support beyond 2010.
Performance:
The introduction of the RGGS Out of School Hours Care facility from January 2010 – before School, after school and vacation care is accommodated in the lower primary area of the school – hence the recent changes to the grounds and lower primary building. Licence approval was granted for the commencement of the 2010 school year.
The introduction of the Yeppoon bus run in 2009 has proven very successful and has necessitated the purchase of a bus with larger capacity to cater for the increasing numbers.
Increase of 7% in school fees for 2010 for tuition, boarding and levies. The fees continue to be competitive with other schools in the Rockhampton region and include a compulsory tuition levy covering activities such as school camps, excursions, competition entrance fees etc. This makes the RGGS School Fee Structure „all inclusive‟ with minimal add-on charges during the school year.
Finance 2010
RGGS operates as a not-for-profit entity and reinvests revenue raised back into the school through capital infrastructure and strategic planning for long-term financial stability.
The largest portion of the School‟s operating expenses in 2010 related to staff costs, including salaries and wages, superannuation and workers compensation payments.
Figure 4: Operating expenditure
A salary and wage increase of 4.5% was applied across the board for the period 1 July to 31 December 2010. This area of operating expenditure will continue to dominate the majority of RGGS costs due to the importance of attracting and retaining highly qualified and dedicated staff.
Operating expenditure remains comparative with other years. The School‟s tuition expenses cover the curriculum based activities undertaken by
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students, where boarding costs largely relate to the catering and laundry needs of students in our boarding houses.
Figure 5: Operating income
Tuition Fees, Boarding Fees and Commonwealth Grants make up the majority of RGGS operating income in 2010.
„Other‟ School income includes the rental of School facilities and the residential premises held on RGGS land.
Building the Education Revolution 2010
Because of the funding made available through the BER, we were able to undertake the following projects:
Middle Primary Playground Equipment and Shade Shelter through the National School Pride Program
Upgrade of the School Gym to encompass an assembly area, small group performances and fitness equipment rooms through the Primary Schools for the 21
st Century Program.
Capital works for 2010
Photo 8: BER P21 Project – Mouritz Primary Multi-Purpose Hall
The National School Pride Program was completed during 2010 and the Primary Schools for the 21
st
Century Project is almost complete as at 31 December 2010. Minor furnishings are required in the refurbished building to fully finalise this project. Other funding approvals for 2010
Funding application approvals were received to undertake the following projects during 2010:
The acquisition of computers to bring the RGGS student: computer ratio for Years 9 – 12 to 1:1. This funding occurred through the National Secondary School Computer Fund and the Digital Education Revolution.
Refurbishment of Jackson House boarding facilities - approximate cost of $660,000. State funding has been approved through the Block Grant Authority.
Upgrading of McKeague Hall to a multipurpose area for cross-curricular practical activities – approximate cost $550,000. State funding has been approved through the Block Grant Authority.
Full removal and replacement of asbestos areas – approximate cost $550,000. Funding has been approved from the Asbestos Replacement and Removal Fund.
Other major expenditure for 2010
In response to increased interest and enrolments from the Central Coast region, the School purchased a White Higer 33 seater vehicle.
Photo 9: White Higer Bus
The School‟s IT infrastructure is to undergo a complete upgrade during December 2010 and January 2011. This includes the purchase of new servers, additional computers and the installation of wireless networking throughout the school.
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Looking forward
Outlook for 2011
Initiatives for 2011 under the direction of the new principal include:
the introduction of dance as a curriculum subject appointment of a second Music teacher with expertise in dance
The introduction of laptops for Year 7 and Year 10 students of the School for everyday use
A restructure of the School
Stronger focus on senior Pathways
Stronger links with CQ TAFE and CQUniversity
The introduction of:
o project leadership roles
o Excellence programs
Relocation of Reception
The refurbishment of classrooms
Improved communication with the School Community
Paterson House Refurbishment Appeal
Future Capital Works
Throughout 2011 the School‟s Strategic Plan includes:
Upgrading McKeague Hall to a multipurpose area for cross-curricular practical activities – approximate cost $550,000
Full removal and replacement of asbestos areas – approximate cost $550,000
Projected numbers for 2012
At the commencement of 2011 RGGS has waiting lists at three levels: Year 5, Year 7 and Year 11.
It is anticipated that boarding numbers will remain constant around 140 to 150 students.
Table 12 – Projected numbers for 2012
Year Group
Current Numbers 2011
Budgeted Numbers 2012
P 11 15
1 7 17
2 12 11
3 15 13
4 5 14
5 25 8
6 13 22
7 27 20
8 43 42
9 47 43
10 45 45
11 58 55
12 33 53
Totals 342 358
In 2013 we propose to open a second Year 7 class.
2012 – 120 Years
In 2012, we celebrate 120 years‟ success in education.
Capital works for 2012
An application for a BGA Grant for the following project has been approved and it is expected that these works will be carried out in 2012.
Refurbishment of Jackson House boarding facilities - approximate cost of $660,000
Construction of a new Prep building to be located adjacent to the Lower Primary area
Non Scholae Sed Vitae
(Not only for school but for life we are learning)
Translation of the Latin motto adopted in 1894 by the School.
The motto reflects the philosophy of Miss Helen E. Downs, the first Headmistress of the School 1892-
1906.
24
History of the School Song
Forty Years On is a song written by Edward Ernest Bowen (Schoolmaster at Harrow School 1859-1901) and
John Farmer in 1872 as the Harrow School Song. The song is about life at school and is meant to give pupils
now, an idea of what it will be like in forty years when they return to their old school, and to remind old boys
about school life. RGGS adopted one of the verses and the music of the Harrow School song and then added
different lyrics for the chorus and remaining verse for the RGGS school song.
The School Song
What are we working for here at our lessons
Why join together in book lore and play
Forty years on will be answered these questions
If our school motto speaks clearly today.
Not only for school but for life we are learning
Life with its duties, pleasure and cares
Hearts bright with hope, with ambition high burning
Hearts of true women our school time prepares.
Chorus
Do your best! Do your best! Do your best!
Give again our dear School’s ringing cry
Sounding north and south and west
Non scholae sed vitae
Forty years on when afar and asunder
Parted are those who are singing today
When we look back and forgetfully wonder
What we were like in our work and our play.
Then it may be there will often come o’er us
Whispers of notes like the catch of a song
Visions of girlhood will float then before us
Echoes of dreamland will bear them along.
25
Glossary of terms
Definition Meaning
ACER Australian Council for Education Research
AGSRC Average Government School Recurrent Costs
AQTF Australian Quality Training Framework
ISQ Independent Schools of Queensland
ASBA Association of School Bursars and Administrators
BEAQ Business Educators‟ Association of Queensland
CBRC Cabinet Budget Review Committee
DEST Department of Education, Science & Training (Federal)
DET Department of Education & Training (State)
DOGIT Deed of Grant in Trust
EBA Enterprise Bargaining Agreement
ETRF Education and Training Reforms for the Future
FFPOS Full Fee Paying Overseas Student
FTE Full Time Equivalent
GSA Grammar Schools Association
GST Goods & Services Tax
HEIA Home Economics Institute of Australia
ICT Information Communication Technology
IT Information Technology
KLA Key Learning Areas
LOTE Language Other Than English
MYSA Middle Years of Schooling Australia
NAPLAN National Assessment Program in Literacy and Numeracy
NMS National Minimum Standard
OP Overall Position
26
Definition Meaning
QAO Queensland Audit Office
QCAN Queensland Children‟s‟ Activity Network
QCE Queensland Certificate of Education
QCS Queensland Core Skills
QISSN Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball
QSA Queensland Studies Authority
QTAC Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre
QTC Queensland Treasury Corporation
RGGS Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
SES Socioeconomic Status
SRI School Resources Index
VET Vocational Education and Training
TAFE Technical And Further Education
TASS The Alpha School System
WHS Workplace Health & Safety
WHSO Workplace Health & Safety Officer
WRC Workplace Rehabilitation Coordinator
Copyright
© Rockhampton Girls Grammar School 2010
27
Appendix A – Letter of Compliance
Letter of Compliance
29 March 2011 The Honourable Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations PO Box 15033 CITY EAST QLD 4002 Dear Minister I am pleased to present the Annual Report 2010 for the Rockhampton Girls Grammar School. I certify that this Annual Report complies with:
The prescribed requirements of the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Financial and Performance Management Standard 2009, and
The detailed requirements set out in the Annual Report Requirements for Queensland Government Agencies January 2010.
A checklist outlining the annual reporting requirements can be accessed at www.rggs.qld.edu.au
Yours sincerely
Philip J Hancock Chairman Board of Trustees Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
28
Appendix B – Financial Statements
Financial Statements
A copy of the 2010 Audited Annual Financial Statements of the RGGS Board of Trustees prepared in accordance with the Financial Accountability Act 2009 is attached.
DOMICILE AND STATUS
BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS
Dr Judith Hancock - BSc, Grad Dip Ed Admin, MPhil, DUniv (QUT), MACE, LFAPC (11 November 2010 - Current)
CONTENTS PAGE
Statement of Comprehensive Income 2
Statement of Financial Position 3
Statement of Changes in Equity 4
Statement of Cash Flows 5
Notes To and Forming Part of the Financial Statements 6
Management Certificate 24
Independent Audit Report 25
BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
FINANCIAL REPORT 31 DECEMBER 2010
the School's head office of operations and principal place of residence being:
from income tax from the Commonwealth government. The School is domiciled in Rockhampton, Australia, with
The Rockhampton Girls' Grammar School was established in 1892. The School is a statutory body and is exempt
Mrs Vicki Bastin-Byrne (11 November 2010 - Current)
155 Agnes Street, Rockhampton, Queensland 4700
Mrs Alice Hare - BOcc.Thy, QU , ASDA (1 February 2008 - Current)
Mr Philip Hancock - BIT (Computer Science) CSU, GradDip FacMgt UC - Chairperson (1 January 2004 - Current)
Mr Noel Livingston - Deputy Chairperson and Treasurer (19 July 2007 - Current)
Mr John Bryant - B.Bus, FCA, CMC, MAICD, MIMC (11 November 2010 - Current)
Ms Suzanne Phillips - BA (Hons)UQ, MACE (1 January 2004 - Current)
1
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 2010 2009
INCOME
$ $
Tuition Fees 2,210,463 1,992,114
Out of School Hours (OSHC) Fees 62,107 -
Boarding Fees 1,558,556 1,556,092
Interest 2 68,338 61,606
Donations 3 92,723 82,313
Rent 111,794 52,521
Building Levy 94,061 88,168
State Recurrent Grant 584,190 617,541
State Endowment Grant 17,000 25,500
Commonwealth Recurrent Grants 1,909,440 1,777,728
Commonwealth Other Grants 54,692 79,256
State Capital Grants 840,645 797,000
Other Income 4 298,916 312,720
Total Income 7,902,925 7,442,559
EXPENSES
Tuition 5 2,845,155 2,625,076
Boarding 6 1,155,063 1,105,815
Financial 7 128,852 154,901
Maintenance & Repairs 453,511 486,450
Administrative & General 8 1,792,050 1,343,069
Borrowing Costs 247,411 253,424
Depreciation 9 489,018 429,109
Total Expenses 7,111,060 6,397,844
Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 791,865 1,044,715
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Revaluation Increment/(Decrement) on Land - (1,830,000)
Revaluation Increment/(Decrement) on Buildings - 2,616,037
Total Other Comprehensive Income - 786,037
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME 791,865 1,830,752
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
2
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 2010 2009
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents 11 796,592 1,706,084
Receivables 12 43,818 37,572
Other Assets 13 10,876 8,778
Total Current Assets 851,286 1,752,434
NON CURRENT ASSETS
Property, Plant & Equipment 14 35,014,441 33,553,271
Investment Property 14 173,940 178,400
Total Non Current Assets 35,188,381 33,731,671
Total Assets 36,039,667 35,484,105
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Payables 15 428,822 643,437
Other Financial Liabilities 16 9,035 34,199
Accrued Employee Benefits 17 233,065 224,102
Total Current Liabilities 670,922 901,738
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIESOther Financial Liabilities 16 4,414,050 4,450,346
Accrued Employee Benefits 17 37,144 6,336
Total Non-current Liabilities 4,451,194 4,456,682
TOTAL LIABILITIES 5,122,116 5,358,420
NET ASSETS 30,917,551 30,125,685
EQUITY
Trust Fund for Bursaries 51,247 47,970
Revaluation Reserves 18 20,493,374 20,493,374
Retained Surpluses 10,372,930 9,584,341
TOTAL EQUITY 30,917,551 30,125,685
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements
3
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009
Balance at 1 JanuaryGeneral Fund 9,584,341 8,537,936 20,493,374 19,707,337 30,077,715 28,245,273
Trust Fund 47,970 49,661 - - 47,970 49,661
Operating Surplus/(Deficit) - (General Fund) 788,588 1,046,405 - - 788,588 1,046,405
Operating Surplus/(Deficit) - (Trust Fund) 3,277 (1,690) - - 3,277 (1,690)
Profit for the Year 791,865 1,044,715 - - 791,865 1,044,715
Other Comprehensive Income:
Revaluation of Land - - - (1,830,000) - (1,830,000)
Revaluation of Buildings - - - 2,616,037 - 2,616,037
Balance at 31 DecemberGeneral Fund 10,372,930 9,584,341 20,493,374 20,493,374 30,866,304 30,077,715
Trust Fund 51,247 47,970 - - 51,247 47,970
Total Balance at 31 December 10,424,177 9,632,312 20,493,374 20,493,374 30,917,551 30,125,685
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements
Total EquityAsset Revaluation ReserveRetained Earnings
4
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 2010 2009
$ $
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Inflows:
Receipts from Students 4,083,423 3,571,982
Receipts from Government 2,510,630 2,420,769
Receipts from Capital Grants 991,289 876,256
Receipts from Other Activities 230,757 395,033
Interest Received 68,338 61,606
GST Received 315,159 229,337
8,199,596 7,554,983
Outflows:
Payments to Employees (3,780,087) (3,256,046)
Payments to Suppliers (2,605,632) (2,097,461)
Interest and Other Costs of Finance (251,820) (255,490)
GST Paid (468,536) (308,415)
(7,106,075) (5,917,412)
Net Cash Provided by (used in) Operating Activities 19 1,093,519 1,637,571
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Outflows:
Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment (1,945,728) (1,451,448)
Net Cash Provided by (used in) Investing Activities (1,945,728) (1,451,448)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Inflows:
Proceeds from Borrowings - 48,663
Outflows:
Repayment of Borrowings (57,285) (34,411)
Net Cash Provided by (used in) Financing Activities (57,285) 14,252
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents (909,494) 200,375
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Financial Year 1,706,084 1,505,709
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Financial Year 11 796,590 1,706,084
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements
5
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
Objectives and Principal Activities
(e) Cash Assets
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Note 1 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
The School, established in 1892, provides for the educational needs of young women from
Preparatory to Year 12. Boarding students are accepted from Year 6.
Fees and charges including Tuition and Boarding Fees that are charged by the School are recognised
as revenues when invoices for the related goods/services are issued.
These financial statements constitute a general purpose financial statement. Except where stated, the
historical cost convention is used.
The financial statements include the value of all revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities and equity of
the Rockhampton Girls' Grammar School.
(a) Basis of Accounting
(b) The Reporting Entity
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards.
In addition, the financial statements comply with the Treasurer's Minimum Reporting Requirements
for the year ending 31 December 2010, and other authoritative pronouncements.
(c) Revenue
Interest Income is recognised as revenue at the end of each month that it is received.
Other Sundry Income is recognised as revenue as it accrues.
(d) Grants and Contributions
Grants are recognised as revenue when they are received by the State or Commonwealth
Government.
Grants, contributions, donations and gifts that are non-reciprocal in nature are recognised as revenue
in the year in which the School obtains control over them. Where grants are received that are
reciprocal in nature, revenue is accrued over the term of the funding arrangements.
For the purposes of the Statement of Financial Position and the Statement of Cash Flows, cash
assets include all cash and cheques receipted but not banked at 31 December as well as deposits at
call with financial institutions.
6
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
(f) Receivables
the first day of Term 1.
(g) Acquisitions of Assets
(h) Property, Plant and Equipment
Buildings and Infrastructure $10,000
Land $1
Other $5,000
Trade debtors are carried at nominal amounts due at the time of invoicing less any provision for
doubtful debts as the amounts are due for settlement upon the issue of the invoice. The collectability
of receivables is assessed periodically with provision being made for impairment. All known bad
debts were written off as at 31 December 2010.
Other debtors generally arise from transactions outside the usual operating activities of the School
and are recognised at their assessed values. Terms are a maximum of 30 days. No interest is
charged and no security is obtained.
Fees are due and payable on the first day of each term. For example, Term 1 fees are due on
Actual cost is used for the initial recording of all non-current physical and intangible asset acquisitions.
Cost is determined as the value given as consideration plus costs incidental to the acquisition,
including all other costs incurred in getting the assets ready for use, including architects' fees and
engineering design fees. However, any training costs are expensed as incurred.
Assets acquired at no cost or for nominal consideration are recognised at their fair value at date of
acquisition in accordance with AASB 116 Property, Plant and Equipment .
Items of property, plant and equipment with a cost or other value equal to or in excess of the following
thresholds are recognised for financial reporting purposes in the year of acquisition:
Items with a lesser value are expensed in the year of acquisition.
7
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Class Rate (%)Buildings 1 - 2.5
Building Improvements 4
Ground Improvements 5
Furniture & Fittings 5-10
Plant & Equipment 10
Computer Equipment 20
Motor Vehicles 20
Library Books 5
Swimming Pool 2
Where assets have separately identifiable components that are subject to regular replacement, these
components are assigned useful lives distinct from the asset to which they relate and are depreciated
accordingly.
Land is not depreciated as it has an unlimited useful life.
Assets under construction (work-in-progress) are not depreciated until they are ready for use.
Property, plant and equipment is depreciated on a straight-line basis so as to allocate the net cost or
revalued amount of each asset, less its estimated residual value, progressively over its estimated
useful life to the School.
(i) Revaluations of Non-Current Physical and Intangible Assets
For each class of depreciable asset the following depreciation and amortisation rates are used:
Plant and equipment are measured at cost. The carrying amounts for plant and equipment at cost
should not materially differ from their fair value.
(j) Amortisation and Depreciation Property, Plant and Equipment
On revaluation, accumulated depreciation is restated proportionately with the change in the carrying
amount of the asset and any change in the estimate of remaining useful life.
Non-current physical assets measured at fair value are comprehensively revalued at least once every
three years. Interim valuations, using appropriate indices, are performed on an annual basis where
there has been material variation in the index.
Land, buildings, infrastructure, major plant and equipment and heritage and cultural assets are
measured at fair value in accordance with AASB 116 Property, Plant and Equipment and Queensland
Treasury's Non-Current Asset Accounting Policies for the Queensland Public Sector.
Any revaluation increment arising on the revaluation of an asset is credited to the asset revaluation
reserve of the appropriate asset, except to the extent it reverses a revaluation decrement for the
asset previously recognised as an expense. A decrease in the carrying amount on revaluation is
charged as an expense, to the extent it exceeds the balance, if any, in the revaluation reserve relating
to that asset.
8
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
(k) Leases
(l) Payables
(m) Other Financial Liabilities
(n) Employee Benefits
Interest bearing liabilities are recognised at book value as the amount contractually owing.
Finance leases are capitalised, recording an asset and a liability equal to the present value of the
minimum lease payments, including any guaranteed residual values. Leased assets are depreciated
over their estimated useful lives where it is likely that the entity will obtain ownership of the asset or
over the term of the lease. Lease payments are allocated between the reduction of the lease liability
and the lease interest expense for the period. As at 31 December 2010, the School had one finance
lease with Esanda for IT Servers. This finance lease will cease in February 2011.
Prior history indicates that on average, sick leave taken each reporting period is less than the
entitlement accrued. This is expected to continue in future periods. Accordingly, it is unlikely that
existing accumulated entitlements will be used by employees and no liability for unused sick leave
entitlements is recognised.
For unpaid entitlements expected to be paid within 12 months, the liabilities are recognised at their
undiscounted values. For those entitlements not due to be paid within 12 months, the liabilities are
recognised at their present value, calculated using yields on Fixed Rate Commonwealth Government
bonds of similar maturity.
Lease payments for operating leases, where substanitally all the risks and benefits remain with the
lessor, are charged as expenses in the period in which they are incurred. As at 31 December 2010,
the School had three operating leases for three photocopiers, printer and bus. One of these operating
leases for 2 photocopiers and a printer will cease in May 2011.
Wages, Salaries, Recreation Leave, Sick Leave, and Long Service Leave
Trade creditors are recognised upon receipt of the goods or services ordered and the invoice, and are
measured at the agreed purchase/contract price, gross of applicable trade and other discounts.
Amounts owing are unsecured and are generally settled on 30 day terms or sooner.
Wages, salaries, recreation leave and long service leave due but unpaid at reporting date are
recognised in the Statement of Financial Position at the remuneration rates expected to apply at the
time of settlement and include related on-costs such as Work Cover premiums and employer
superannuation contributions.
As sick leave is non-vesting, an expense is recognised for this leave as it is taken.
9
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
(n) Employee Benefits (continued)
(o) Financing/Borrowing Costs
(p) Insurance
(q) Taxation
(r) Issuance of Financial Statements
Rockhampton Girls' Grammar School provides employees with the opportunity to choose their
Superannuation Fund. The vast majority of employees are members of either the AMP Custom
Super Fund or the QIEC Super Fund. Contributions are expensed in the period in which they are paid
or payable. The School's obligation is limited to its contributions to these funds.
Rockhampton Girls' Grammar School had 50.77 full time equivalent employees at 31 December 2010
(45.5 FTE at 31 December 2009).
AON Risk Services Australia Limited insure the School's Non-Current Physical Assets, Student, Staff
and Volunteer Accident Protection, Director and Officer's Supplementary Legal Expenses, Statutory
Liability and Educator's Liability and Forgery. In addition, the School pays premiums to Work Cover
Queensland in respect of its obligations for employee compensation and student work experience
placements. Insurance is expensed in the period in which it relates.
Therefore, no liability is recognised for accruing superannuation benefits in these financial
statements.
Finance costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.
Superannuation
The financial statements are authorised for issue by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the
Rockhampton Girls Grammar School at the date of signing the Management Certificate as found on
page 24.
The School is a state body as defined under the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 and is exempt
from Commonwealth taxation except for Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) and Goods and Services Tax
(GST). FBT and GST are the only taxes accounted for by the School. GST credits receivable and
GST payable from/to the Australian Taxation Office are recognised and accrued.
Finance costs include interest on bank overdrafts and short-term and long-term borrowings.
10
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Key Estimates — Impairment
Amounts included in the financial statements have been rounded to the nearest dollar. Comparative
information has been restated where necessary to be consistent with disclosures in the current
reporting period. The presentation currency is Australian dollars.
All Australian accounting standards and interpretations with future commencement dates are either
not applicable to the School's activities, or have no material impact on the School.
The School did not voluntarily change any of its accounting policies during 2010. The School is not
permitted to early adopt a new or amended accounting standard ahead of the specified
commencement date unless approval is obtained from the Treasury Department. Consequently, the
School has not applied any Australian accounting standards and interpretations that have been
issued but are not yet effective. The School applies standards and interpretations in accordance with
their respective commencement dates.
(u) New and Revised Accounting Standards
The School assesses impairment at each reporting date by evaluating conditions specific to the
School that may lead to impairment of assets. Where an impairment trigger exists, the recoverable
amount of the asset is determined. Value-in-use calculations performed in assessing recoverable
amounts incorporate a number of key estimates.
(t) Rounding and Comparatives
No impairment has been recognised for the year ended 31 December 2010.
Management evaluate estimates and judgments incorporated into the financial report based on
historical knowledge and best available current information. Estimates assume a reasonable
expectation of future events and are based on current trends and economic data, obtained both
externally and within the School.
(s) Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments
11
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 2 - INTEREST
General Fund 14,799 4,815
Trust Funds 53,539 56,791
Building Fund - -
68,338 61,606
NOTE 3 - DONATIONS
Donations for Capital Purposes 94,268 76,688
Scholarship (1,445) 5,450
General (100) 175
92,723 82,313
NOTE 4 - OTHER INCOME
Student Transport 26,049 8,214
Textbooks Income 28,768 25,836
State Needs Based Grants 71,612 79,100
Abstudy Grants - 21,290
P&F Chaplaincy Grant 20,000 20,000
Landcare Grant 1,000 -
Beverage Recycling Grant 3,340 -
Student Performances 3,448 1,882
Board & Lodging 7,803 9,279
Application & Enrolment Fees 27,541 26,300
Telephones 2,310 1,305
Profit/(Loss) Sale of Assets 9,091 (1,785)
Sundry 97,954 121,299
298,916 312,720
NOTE 5 - TUITION
Salaries and Wages - Tuition 2,342,328 2,165,616
Salaries and Wages - OSHC 58,705 -
Printing & Stationery 5,516 3,574
Subject Expenses 63,936 88,019
OSHC Expenses 20,560 -
Speech Night 13,406 14,102
Library Expenses 24,326 22,229
Magazine Expenses 9,890 7,768
School Performances 3,414 562
School Camp Expense 35,086 28,097
IT Services 33,452 62,830
Other 234,536 232,279
2,845,155 2,625,076
12
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 6 - BOARDING
Salaries and Wages 429,100 410,141
Catering 419,859 447,931
Cleaning 198,600 198,234
Kitchen & Linen Replacements 1,989 2,159
Security 15,496 6,249
Laundry Contract 19,127 20,973
Other 70,892 20,128
1,155,063 1,105,815
NOTE 7 - FINANCIAL
Trustees Scholarships 51,584 52,255
Staff Remission of Fees 23,880 23,177
Audit Fees - Audit 22,920 36,440
Audit Fees - Non Audit - -
Accountancy Fees 1,533 3,740
Bank and Interest Charges 15,209 22,021
Other Professional Fees 13,726 17,268
128,852 154,901
No other fees have been paid to auditors other than that as disclosed above in Note 7.
NOTE 8 - ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL
Salaries and Wages 519,887 359,212
Superannuation 345,796 315,026
Long Service Leave Expense 109,894 31,842
Annual Leave Expense 13,732 -
Printing & Stationery 17,939 18,385
Light & Power 91,197 49,999
Telephone and Postage 56,407 49,925
Insurance 68,770 65,785
Rates 82,551 61,601
Motor Vehicle Expenses 36,632 23,625
Fringe Benefits Tax 1,508 1,053
Consultants Fees 64,928 72,073
Computer Expense 64,940 56,203
Bad and Doubtful Debts Expense 21,664 (904)
Advertising 72,757 83,011
Operating Leases 49,402 34,608
Other 174,046 121,625
1,792,050 1,343,069
13
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 9 - DEPRECIATION
Administration Function 154,421 135,169
Boarding Function 110,503 96,979
Tuition Function 224,094 196,961
489,018 429,109
NOTE 10 - EMPLOYEE EXPENSES
Wages and Salaries 3,350,021 2,934,970
Employer Superannuation Contributions 345,796 315,026
Workers Compensation Premium 19,656 13,597
Other (Long Service Leave Expense) 109,894 31,842
Annual Leave Expense 13,732 -
3,839,099 3,295,435
NOTE 11 - CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
General Fund (ANZ) 65,367 183,930
General Fund (NAB) 358,466 -
Floats 862 862
Deposits at Call (QTC) 371,897 1,521,292
796,592 1,706,084
NOTE 12 - RECEIVABLES
Student Fees 66,880 60,861
OSHC Fees 3,795 -
Commercial Fees 2,047 -
less Provision Bad Debts (28,904) (23,289)
43,818 37,572
NOTE 13 - OTHER ASSETS
Prepayments 10,876 8,778
10,876 8,778
The School does not currently hold any cash that has a restriction governing how or where it is spent.
14
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 14 - PROPERTY PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Land
Oval Sporting Facilities - at independent valuation Dec 09 403,053 403,053
Land (Deed of Grant) - at independent valuation Dec 09 3,796,947 3,796,947
Total Land 4,200,000 4,200,000
Buildings and Improvements
242 Denham Street - at independent valuation Dec 09 178,400 178,400
Accumulated Depreciation (4,460) -
173,940 178,400
Paterson (Heritage Listed) - at independent valuation Dec 09 7,755,000 7,755,000
Other Buildings - at independent valuation Dec 09 20,023,229 19,747,192
Accumulated Depreciation (309,757) -
27,468,472 27,502,192
Building Improvements under construction at cost 2,469,088 1,091,705
Total Buildings and Improvements 30,111,500 28,772,297
Total Land & Buildings 34,311,500 32,972,297
Ground Improvements
At independent valuation Dec 09 110,854 80,000
Accumulated Depreciation (8,799) (5,883)
Total Ground Improvements 102,055 74,117
Computers
At cost 492,154 279,144
Accumulated depreciation (222,052) (132,589)
Total Computers 270,102 146,555
Furniture & Fittings
At cost 415,686 415,686
Accumulated Depreciation (236,451) (217,302)
Total Furniture & Fittings 179,235 198,384
15
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 14 - PROPERTY PLANT & EQUIPMENT (CONTINUED)
Plant and Equipment
At cost 634,125 599,850
Accumulated Depreciation (451,909) (418,870)
Total Plant & Equipment 182,216 180,980
Motor Vehicles
At cost 126,199 181,249
Accumulated Depreciation (57,674) (89,467)
Total Motor Vehicles 68,525 91,782
Library Books
At cost 15,973 15,973
Accumulated depreciation (9,082) (8,283)
Total Library Books 6,891 7,690
Office & AV Equipment
At cost 18,556 4,386
Accumulated depreciation (5,806) (827)
Total Office Equipment 12,750 3,559
Swimming Pool
At independent valuation Dec 09 60,000 60,000
Accumulated Depreciation (4,893) (3,693)
Total Swimming Pool 55,107 56,307
Total Property Plant & Equipment 35,188,381 33,731,671
The School has not conducted an interim valuation for the year ended 31 December 2010 as the
accumulated changes in the index were less than 5%. The next comprehensive revaluation will be
conducted on 31 December 2012.
Land with a total value of $4,200,000 is subject to a Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT). The land is
retained by the Crown, however, the economic benefits of this land accrue to Rockhampton Girls'
Grammar School and the land is administered by the Rockhampton Girls' Grammar School.
16
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010
Land
242 Denham
Street
Buildings at
Valuation
Buildings
Under
Construction
Ground
Impvts at
Valuation
Computers
at Cost
Office & AV
Equip at
Cost
Furniture &
Fittings at
Cost
Plant &
Equipment
at Cost
Motor
Vehicles at
Cost
Library
Books at
Cost
Swimming
Pool at
Valuation Total
Carrying amount at 1 January 2010 4,200,000 178,400 27,502,192 1,091,705 74,117 146,555 3,559 198,384 180,980 91,782 7,690 56,307 33,731,671
Acquisitions - - 126,877 1,526,543 30,854 213,010 14,170 - 34,274 - - - 1,945,728
Disposals - - - - - - - - - - - -
Depreciation - (4,460) (309,757) - (2,916) (89,463) (4,979) (19,149) (33,038) (23,257) (799) (1,200) (489,018)
Revaluation - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Transfers - - 149,160 (149,160) - - - - - - - - -
Carrying amount at 31 December 2010 4,200,000 173,940 27,468,472 2,469,088 102,055 270,102 12,750 179,235 182,216 68,525 6,891 55,107 35,188,381
2009
Land
242 Denham
Street
Buildings at
Valuation
Buildings
Under
Construction
Ground
Impvts at
Valuation
Computers
at Cost
Office Equip
at Cost
Furniture &
Fittings at
Cost
Plant &
Equipment
at Cost
Motor
Vehicles at
Cost
Library
Books at
Cost
Swimming
Pool at
Valuation Total
Carrying amount at 1 January 2009 6,030,000 153,683 25,136,565 - 148,190 107,295 - 104,800 179,627 9,107 8,489 57,507 31,935,263
Acquisitions - - - 1,091,705 - 96,964 4,386 115,192 44,729 98,472 - - 1,451,448
Disposals - - (10,183) - - - - (1,785) - - - - (11,968)
Depreciation - (4,008) (279,390) - (6,185) (57,704) (827) (19,823) (43,376) (15,797) (799) (1,200) (429,109)
Revaluation (1,830,000) 28,725 2,655,200 - (67,888) - - - - - - - 786,037
Carrying amount at 31 December 2009 4,200,000 178,400 27,502,192 1,091,705 74,117 146,555 3,559 198,384 180,980 91,782 7,690 56,307 33,731,671
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Note 14 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (CONTINUED)
17
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
2010 2009
$ $
NOTE 15 - PAYABLES
Trade Creditors 117,707 436,551
Enrolment Deposits 178,691 109,855
PAYG Tax Payable 53,624 44,994
Accrued Expenses 78,800 52,037
428,822 643,437
NOTE 16 - OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Current
Lease Liability 9,035 34,199
Non Current
Lease Liability - 9,034
Debenture Loan 4,392,650 4,392,650
QTC Computer Loan 21,400 36,669
WPC Computer Loan - 11,993
4,414,050 4,450,346
NOTE 17 - ACCRUED EMPLOYEE ENTITLEMENTS
Current
Annual Leave 44,012 30,280
Long Service Leave 189,053 193,822
233,065 224,102
Non-CurrentLong Service Leave 37,144 6,336
270,209 230,438
All borrowings are in $A denominated amounts and carried at amortised cost, interest being
expensed as it accrues. No interest has been capitalised during the current or comparative reporting
period.
In relation to the debenture loan, the School has been paying interest only in quarterly instalments at
the rate of 5.53% since 1 October 2006. Queensland Education Department and Queensland
Treasury Corporation have given the School a moratorium on principal repayment until 1 January
2012.
The market value of the School's borrowings at 31 December 2010, as notified by the Queensland
Treasury Corporation was $4,263,434 (2009: $4,124,799). This represents the value of the debt if
the School repaid it in full at balance date.
As it is the intention of the School to hold its borrowings for their full term, no adjustment provision is
made in these accounts.
18
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 18 - ASSET REVALUATION RESERVE BY ASSET CLASS
Land Buildings Heritage Listed
Buildings Total
Balance 1 January 2010 4,163,696 14,110,766 2,218,912 20,493,374
Revaluation Increments - - - -
Revaluation Decrements - - - -
Balance 31 December 2010 4,163,696 14,110,766 2,218,912 20,493,374
Land Buildings Heritage Listed
Buildings Total
Balance 1 January 2009 5,993,696 12,013,483 1,700,158 19,707,337
Revaluation Increments - 2,097,283 518,754 2,616,037
Revaluation Decrements (1,830,000) - - (1,830,000)
Balance 31 December 2009 4,163,696 14,110,766 2,218,912 20,493,374
NOTE 19 - STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS
2010 2009
$ $
Reconciliation of net cash from operating activities to net result for the period:
Operating surplus / (deficit) 791,865 1,044,715
Depreciation 489,018 429,109
(Gain)/loss on disposal of non-current assets (9,091) 11,968
Changes in operating assets and liabilities
Decrease/(increase) in receivables (6,246) 7,163
Decrease/(increase) in other assets (2,098) (2,967)
Increase/(decrease) in payables (209,700) 158,455
Increase/(decrease) in employee benefits 39,771 (10,872)
1,093,519 1,637,571
19
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 20 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
(a) Market Risk
Interest Rate Interest Rate Risk
Interest
Rate + 10% - 10%
Carrying
Amount Profit Equity Profit Equity
Financial Assets
Cash at Bank (ANZ) 0.75% 0.83% 0.68% 65,367 49 - (49) -
Cash at Bank (NAB) 4.15% 4.57% 3.74% 358,466 1,488 - (1,488) -
Deposits at Call (QTC) 5.75% 6.33% 5.18% 371,898 2,138 - (2,138) -
Financial Liabilities
Debenture Loans 5.6% 6.2% 5.1% 4,392,650 (24,731) - 24,731 -
(b) Credit Risk
(c) Liquidity Risk
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
The School's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.
Financial risk management is managed by the Finance Manager under policies approved by the Board of Trustees.
+ 10% - 10%
Interest rate risk arises from the School's borrowings. When managing interest rate risk the School seeks to minimise its
overall cost of funds by borrowing through Queensland Treasury Corporation.
The following table summarises the sensitivity of the School's financial assets and financial liabilities at 31 December
2010 to interest rate risk.
The maximum exposure to credit risk at balance date in relation to each class of recognised financial asset is
represented by the carrying amount of those assets as indicated in the Statement of Financial Position. There are no
concentrations of credit risk as exposure is spread over a large number of counter parties and customers. The School
engages a debt collection agency to assist in managing the credit risk of its customers.
Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash or credit facilities to meet the operating
requirements of the business. This is managed through prudent cash flow management.
The tables below analyse the School's financial liabilities and net settled derivative financial instruments into relevant
maturity groupings based on the remaining period at the reporting date to the contractual maturity date. The amounts
disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows, which are stated as notional principal amounts.
Balances due within 12 months equal their carrying balances, as the impact of discounting is not significant.
20
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
NOTE 20 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS (Continued)
(c) Liquidity Risk (Continued)
Greater
2010 1 year 2 to than
or less 5 years 5 years
Payables 428,822 - -
Interest-bearing liabilities 9,035 838,312 3,575,738
Total 437,857 838,312 3,575,738
Greater
2009 1 year 2 to than
or less 5 years 5 years
Payables 643,437 - -
Interest-bearing liabilities 34,199 619,879 3,781,205
Total 677,636 619,879 3,781,205
(d) Fair Values
(e) Capital Management Policies and Procedures
The School's capital management objectives are:
* To ensure the School's ability to continue as a going concern; and
* to maximise returns for School purposes.
NOTE 21 - REMUNERATION OF BOARD MEMBERS
Board members do not receive remuneration.
The School monitors capital on the basis of the carrying amount of equity plus its subordinated loan, less cash and cash
equivalents as presented on the face of the statement of financial position.
The School manages the capital structure and makes adjustments to it in the light of changes in economic conditions and
the risk characteristics of the underlying assets.
The financial statements reflect the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities
held at balance date.
21
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010
NOTE 22 - COMMITMENTS
(a) Operating Lease commitments
At 31 December the School had the following operating lease commitments inclusive of GST:
2010 2009
$ $
within one year 53,740 13,569
one to five years 187,950 24,260
241,690 37,829
(b) Finance Lease commitments
At 31 December the School had the following finance lease commitments inclusive of GST:
2010 2009
$ $
Within one year 9,035 36,683
One to five years - 9,168
Minimum payments 9,035 45,851
Less: Future finance charges - (2,618)
9,035 43,233
(c) Capital Expenditure Commitments
NOTE 23 - CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Commonwealth and State Government Capital Grants
ROCKHAMPTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Operating leases are entered into as a means of acquiring access to office equipment and vehicles. Lease
payments are fixed. No operating leases contain restrictions on financing or other leasing activities. Some leases
have renewal or purchase options.
At 31 December 2010, the School has the following capital commitments (2009: $1,170,300):
Building Education Revolution (BER) Primary Schools for 21st Century - $65,902. (To be completed early 2011 -
Project covered by Government Grant).
Library and GLA Refurbishment - $30,000 (To be completed early 2011. Project partly covered by Government
Grant).
Pursuant to the conditions attached to Commonwealth and State Government capital grants, the School is
contingently liable to repay, based on a formula, all or part of the grants received if the project to which the funds are
applied ceases to be used for the purpose approved or is sold or otherwise disposed of within 20 years of
completion of the project.
The Board of Trustees of the Rockhampton Girls Grammar School is of the opinion that the School will continue in
its current capacity and therefore any liability is unlikely to materialise.
22
NOTE 24 - EVENTS OCCURRING AFTER BALANCE DATE
The Rockhampton region was subject to severe flooding in December 2010 / January 2011. However, the flooding
did not cause any significant damage to the School's assets and there was no direct impact on the School's overall
operations due to the School's high location.
At the date of this report the School was not aware of any other events requiring disclosure in the financial
statements.
23
Page 25
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
To the Board of Trustees of the Rockhampton Girls’ Grammar School Report on the Financial Report I have audited the accompanying financial report of the Board of Trustees of the Rockhampton Girls’ Grammar School which comprises the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2010, and the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year ended on that date, a summary of significant accounting policies, other explanatory notes and certificates given by the Board of Trustees of the Rockhampton Girls’ Grammar School. The Board of Trustees’ Responsibility for the Financial Report The Board of Trustees is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in accordance with prescribed accounting requirements identified in the Financial Accountability Act 2009 and the Financial and Performance Management Standard 2009, including compliance with Australian Accounting Standards (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations). This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of the financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances. Auditor’s Responsibility My responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on the audit. The audit was conducted in accordance with the Auditor-General of Queensland Auditing Standards, which incorporate the Australian Auditing Standards. These auditing standards require compliance with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements and that the audit is planned and performed to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of risks of material misstatement in the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial report in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control, other than in expressing an opinion on compliance with prescribed requirements. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Board of Trustees, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial report including any mandatory financial reporting requirements as approved by the Treasurer for application in Queensland. I believe that the audit evidence obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion.
Page 26
Independence The Auditor-General Act 2009 promotes the independence of the Auditor-General and all authorised auditors. The Auditor-General is the auditor of all Queensland public sector entities and can only be removed by Parliament. The Auditor-General may conduct an audit in any way considered appropriate and is not subject to direction by any person about the way in which audit powers are to be exercised. The Auditor-General has for the purposes of conducting an audit, access to all documents and property and can report to Parliament matters which in the Auditor-General’s opinion are significant. Auditor’s Opinion In accordance with s.40 of the Auditor-General Act 2009 –
(a) I have received all the information and explanations which I have required; and
(b) in my opinion –
(i) the prescribed requirements in respect of the establishment and keeping of accounts have been complied with in all material respects; and
(ii) the financial report has been drawn up so as to present a true and fair view, in accordance with the prescribed accounting standards of the transactions of the Board of Trustees of the Rockhampton Girls’ Grammar School for the financial year 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2010 and of the financial position as at the end of that year.
MEGAN MAYBURY as Delegate of the Auditor-General of Queensland Queensland Audit Office Brisbane 24 March 2011