This year, P&C delegates from all over Queensland enjoyed two jam-packed days filled with engaging keynote speakers, sessions and discussions focused on the latest trends and real-world case studies, a buzzing trade exhibition, and additional opportunities for peer-to-peer sharing and networking.
Another reason this year’s conference was extra special was the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, which recognised 75 years of QCPCA/P&Cs Qld supporting, fundraising, advocating, investing, and volunteering to give every child every chance in their education.
What did we learn?
We learnt the ins-and-outs of running an OSHC (Outside of School Hours Care), including training requirements, professional standards that must be met, liabilities, food services requirement, business structure recommendations and the ability to join QCAN that would help facilitate and give guidance.
We learnt that ins and outs of running a successful event. Most 'new' events start off as a low return. But continuously running, and improving increases to more revenue and attendance. Need to re-evaluate the effort vs revenue generated and realign our goals. Look at our recurring events and try and make them easier to rollout year on year (same signs, action plan etc).
We took a master class of recruiting volunteers, which as expected is hard across all associations (we aren't the only one). The 'Just one thing' campaign seems to be the most successful, and often leads to more volunteers.
Partnership with other organisations in the community to help increase the volunteer base. Scouts, lion club, other P&Cs, whilst reduces your overall profits, can help the event run smoothly.
We investigated the running of tuckshops, and how this could potentially work for us as a business arm of the P&C. Lots to think about.
Key Takeaway
We took away a lot of learnings and have come to the conclusion that our P&C needs to develop a 3-5 year business plan to become a profitable arm for the College.
Save the date for 2023!
We are already looking forward to doing it all again on the Gold Coast next year. Mark your diaries for 11 – 12 August 2023 at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre!
L-R: Cassie Wagstaff - Secretary & Cassandra Aldcroft - President.
Fun times at the Gala Dinner. L-R: Cassandra Aldcroft - President & Brad Aldcroft.
Meeting our school neighbours from Coolwynpin State School. L-R: Matthew Rowan - President P&Cs Qld, David Tanti - President Coolwynpin State School, Cassandra Aldcroft - President Capalaba State College & Scott Wiseman - CEO P&Cs Qld.
Contemplating all the potential business arms the P&C could utilise....
Getting a change to discuss prep to year 12 amongst other P&Cs with similar setup. L-R: Joanna Robey - President Mary Valley State College, Cassandra Aldcroft - President Capalaba State College & Kylie McDonald - President Chancellor State College.