Western Australia Schools to start CEFA School Parliaments
February 19, 2010
In December 2009 CEFA convened Professional Development for Western Australian Primary and Secondary schools in the next phase of its national training for the implementation of school parliaments.
Teachers from 7 schools attended the professional development conducted by CEFA’s Representative, Mr. Don Perna at the Perth Modern School on December 4, 2009, completing a year where this dynamic teacher training was conducted in Victoria, the ACT, NSW, Queensland and now Western Australia.
Above: Teachers from seven Western Australian schools with CEFA School Parliaments Trainer, Mr Don Perna in December 2009
The workshop allowed teachers to explore the possibilities of implementing a class/school parliament and create a new generation of active and informed citizens. Mr. Perna presented a variety of implementation models to the participants as each school is unique and requires a tailored process for their own school or class parliament.
Mr. Perna stated: “The representatives from each of the schools are now a part of a Perth network instigated by CEFA, whereby teachers can communicate and collaborate as they move towards the creation of a class/school parliament. We will provide the necessary forum for these teachers to be in discussions with each other and teachers from all around Australia who have already attended CEFA training and implemented a school parliament.”
Bev Henderson, a participant from Woodlupine Primary School said: “ … the workshop was fantastic, informative and inspiring.”
Teachers found the DVD footage of the many schools that have already implemented a school parliament to be both motivating and instructional. The excellent resources that were given to each participant will also assist them in the teaching and learning process for their students.Schools represented were:
Perth Modern School Rockingham Senior High School Mazenod College The Australian Islamic School Woodlupine Primary School Yangebup Primary School Melville Primary School
CEFA would like to thank the Principal, Dr Robyn White and in particular Mr. Sol Hanna (Perth Modern School’s representative at the workshop) who assisted in the organisation of the day and whose enthusiasm, expertise and organisational skills ensured the workshop was a great success.
Melville Primary School will be implementing its parliament week 4 of the 2010 school year. Details will be provided regarding students’ election and the formation of the school parliament.
If you are interested in finding out more about CEFA’s School Parliaments and the 2010 Professional Development program in your state or territory, contact Ibrahim Hariri at Head Office
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