St Philip's Christian Education Membership Pack

Contents

The Way, The Truth, The Life

JOHN 14:6

Leaders in Whole of Life Education

From humble beginnings in 1982, St Philip's Christian Education now spans a rapidly growing network of learning communities which provides whole of life education and care to children from Early Learning through to Tertiary Education. St Philip's Christian Education offers excellence in education while keeping the truth of the Christian Gospel at its core.

SPCEF's governing body is the Board of Directors This instrumental group is comprised of seven members, the Board Chair, the College CFO and myself Our Board is made up of a cross-section of expertise, skills and personalities and provides wise, strategic direction.

With over 800 staff and 5,000 students, the St Philip's family is a rapidly growing network of schools which provides whole of life education and care to children from Early Learning through to Tertiary Education.

Our structure at St Philip's is unique in that we have a Central Office which provides support to our network of learning communities. The learning communities benefit from extra resources and professional services including leadership support, educational consultation, professional development, staff collaboration, human resources, finance, building services, risk management, information and communication technology and marketing communications

Our Senior Executive Team (SET) meet together on a regular basis to determine the ongoing operation of our network and to ensure a unified outworking of the vision of our organisation.

In all that we do we believe we are called to be leaders in whole of life education and we are continually looking to ways that we can further this endeavour The Central Office is committed to enabling the best possible educational journey for our entire SPCC community

Thank you for joining us Grace and peace,

Graeme Irwin AM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Vision

ST PHILIP'S CHRISTIAN COLLEGE SEEKS TO BE A LEADING PROVIDER OF QUALITY CHRISTIAN EDUCATION WITHIN OUR NATION, WHERE:

Every student develops a personal faith in Jesus Christ and is empowered to live with purpose, integrity and joy.

Every student achieves their God-given potential and is wellequipped to make a significant contribution to society.

Every student benefits from innovative and effective learning experiences taught by skilled and dedicated teachers

Mission

Prayer

Every student enjoys a safe and secure learning environment wherein they feel connected and affirmed.

Every student contributes to a culture of respect, dignity, care and concern for others

Every student has access to excellent learning resources and is taught in the best learning facilities we can provide

St Philip's Christian College will continue to provide quality education in a caring, secure and challenging learning environment based on Christian beliefs, values and practice.

Almighty God whom truly to know is eternal life, grant us perfectly to know your Son Jesus Christ to be the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that following in the steps of your holy apostle St Philip, we may steadfastly walk in the way that leads to eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

The Way, The Truth, The Life

JOHN 14:6

I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no-one comes to the Father but by Me

The Motto is taken from the words of Jesus in John 14:6: "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no-one comes to the Father but by Me "Jesus alone is the means by which men, women, girls and boys can come to know, for themselves, our Creator and Father God.

Our Theological Statement

St Philip’s Christian Education (SPCE) is a family of learning communities that facilitates formation of people to engage with the restorative mission of God in the world as His image bearers (Matthew 28:1920, Mark 1:14-15, Genesis 1:26- 27). As a Christian non-denominational organisation, we are united around core biblical teachings, central to which is the Nicene Creed, that anchor our identity and mission, while also welcoming a diversity of perspectives on secondary matters where faithful Christians may differ In saying this, theological clarity on core teachings is essential for unity, direction and faithful practice.

The purpose of Our Theological Statement (OTS) is to articulate shared teachings that guide life and learning across our learning communities. In articulating some of the core cultural norms that guide our organisation, it seeks to engage a ‘heart’ response to the vision and mission, and as such will primarily be focused toward staff and leaders in the organisation.

We affirm the Scriptures as the inspired and authoritative Word of God divinely given and wholly trustworthy as the foundation for knowing God, understanding ourselves, and discerning our purpose in His world (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12). The Bible is not merely a collection of texts but a unified and unfolding story of God’s redemptive work in history, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Jesus is the crux of the narrative, the lens through which all of Scripture is rightly understood and the one to which all Scripture points. As such, Scripture is not peripheral to our life as a community it permeates every aspect of who we are and what we do. It shapes our teaching, relationships, leadership, service, and vision Through the Scriptures, by His Spirit, God continues to speak, forming us to be a people rooted in truth and responsive to His mission in the world.

A comprehensive account of all theological teachings held within our community would exceed the purpose and scope of this document. Our Theological Statement is arranged around seven key areas that reflect core realities of our learning communities These areas are outworkings of our foundational Vision, Mission, and Values, and give shape to what it means to be part of St Philip’s Christian Education Foundation. Together, they help clarify the shared expectations and convictions that guide the formation we seek to cultivate in our learning communities as we pursue our Godgiven mission.

A Theology of Christian Education

At SPCE, Christian education is a community of grace where God’s plans and purposes are woven into every student’s learning journey. We are a living expression of God’s redemptive story in the educational context, revealing the reconciliation of all things in Christ (Colossians 1:19–20). Therefore, our educational philosophy and practice are shaped by our commitment to Jesus the way, the truth, and the life and grounded in core biblical beliefs.

We believe that every young person is inherently valuable and worthy of love because they are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) Jesus’ radical love and inclusion of children of all backgrounds and identities speaks not only to their value, but to their capacity to receive and respond to grace (Luke 18:15–17; John 4:7–26) In an age where value is too often measured by achievement or influence, we echo Christ’s counter-cultural welcome: “Let the little children come to me” (Luke 18:16)

We affirm that Christian education is the intentional formation of the whole person mind, body, and spirit into the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29). Learning is rooted in the heart of God who calls His people to know and teach His ways (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). It is shaped by His redemptive purposes to form students who put Christ first, expressed through their head, heart, and hands, that is, renewed minds, deep love, and acts of justice and service (Micah 6:8; Colossians 1:28).

We uphold the importance of employing Christian staff who, in every role, serve as models bearing witness to God’s truth and love not only in classroom content, but in life (1 Thessalonians 2:8). Such witness is formed and sustained through participating in the body of Christ (Hebrews 10:24–25); therefore, active church engagement is essential.

Christian spiritual formation is our priority (Luke 9:23-24) To support students’ spiritual growth and wellbeing, we intentionally foster prayer, faith-informed teaching, Chapel, Christian studies, lunchtime groups, and other events in our learning communities We offer students the opportunity to understand the Gospel through authentic relationship, invitation, and example (1 Peter 3:15) These formative practices orient us toward God, anchoring all we do in grace and truth

We believe that faith-informed learning and pedagogy should be approached with rigour and excellence, recognising that education is rooted in the God who reveals Himself both through creation and the Bible (Psalm 19:1–4; 2 Timothy 3:16). By engaging deeply with the world, students uncover the order, beauty, and truth woven into God’s creation, with their educational growth serving as part of their journey to know Him more deeply.

We see behaviour management reflecting our calling to be a transformative, Spirit-led community (Galatians 6:1). Discipline is loving, restorative, and grounded in grace (Hebrews 12:6). Within this community, students are formed in Christ-like character growing in wisdom, selfcontrol, resilience and responsibility (Hebrews 12:11). Transformation is the Spirit’s work; our role is faithfulness.

We believe that striving for excellence in a collaborative and challenging learning environment is part of God’s good design for growing young people into mature individuals (Proverbs 27:17; Hebrews 12:5–6) These practices shape character and refine skills that prepare students for the whole of their lives We pursue excellence not for its own sake, but as an act of worship and service (Colossians 3:23)

In all we do, we seek to offer Christ-first education, forming students in truth and grace so they may live with wisdom, purpose, and faithfulness for the whole of their lives.

In all we do, we seek to offer Christ-first education, forming students in truth and grace so they may live with wisdom, purpose, and faithfulness for the whole of their lives.

Kingdom Building Partnerships

At SPCE, we see opportunities to build partnerships that honour God and build for Jesus’ kingdom, especially through families, churches, as well as community groups and governmental bodies.

We believe that the Kingdom of God is His sovereign and saving reign, marked by righteousness, justice, grace, peace, and love –bringing renewal to all creation (Mark 1:14–15, Luke 13:18–21, Luke 6.20). Inaugurated by Christ and empowered by the Spirit, the Kingdom is present and active, yet awaits its fullness when Christ returns (Matthew 6:10, Philippians 3:20–21). The Spirit of Christ is at work in the world and in hearts, transforming lives through faith, hope, and love, and reconciling people to God in the formation of His redeemed community, the Church We believe a Christian school is a living expression of this Kingdom – partnering with families, churches, and the wider community to nurture and equip learners to participate in the renewal of all things under Christ (Colossians 1:13–14, Philippians 2:9–11)

We maintain that God has created family as the foundation in which children are born and raised (Genesis 1 & 2, Deuteronomy 6:5–7, Ephesians 3:14–15) The family forms the building block of society, in which parents have the first responsibility to raise, develop, and disciple their children The Christian school partners with parents, caregivers, and families in whole of life Christian education.

We are a missional learning community, deeply committed to welcoming families and learners from all backgrounds to journey with us – whether they call Christ their Lord or are yet to express their faith in Him. In partnership with

families and churches, we offer education as a ministry of love, service, and witness (Colossians 1:28) Together, we nurture each learner’s growth within a Christ-centred environment, believing that every person is created to flourish under God’s love, truth, and grace (Psalm 92:12–15, 2 Timothy 3:14–17).

We affirm the local church is accountable for lifelong discipleship of individuals and families, ministering through worship, the sacraments, spiritual practices and Biblical teaching (Ephesians 4:11-13). SPCE is part of the broader church – a united expression of the body of Christ, empowering staff to live out their vocation and service to the world in the ministry of Christian Education. To faithfully fulfil our calling and mission, we seek to actively partner with the local churches to which our staff and families belong

We assert that God has strategically positioned us to partner with organisations, businesses, and government in fulfilling our mission and vision. We work boldly and uncompromisingly for the flourishing of our communities, cities, and nation (Jeremiah 29:7), serving as salt and light (Matthew 5:13–16) Through this work, we recognise God’s grace at work in such partnerships, and we witness in word and deed

We seek to express the hope and renewal of God’s Kingdom in every relationship and partnership we pursue.

We seek to express the hope and renewal of God’s Kingdom in every relationship and partnership we pursue.

Whole of Life Formation

At SPCE we believe that we are working with God to bring about whole life formation in students and staff.

We believe that human formation begins with divine intention. Humanity is created in the image of God – designed to reflect His character and steward His creation (Genesis 1:26–27). We are intimately formed by God (Psalm 139:13–14) for a purpose that is preordained (Jeremiah 1:5). However, we live in a fallen world, where that image is marred and our purpose is obscured.

We acknowledge that the gospel invites us into re-formation: being made new (2 Corinthians 5:17) and receiving a new heart and spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Re-formation, then, is both a return to our original design and a forward movement into Christlikeness, empowered by the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23–24) We recognise that every person is formed by God with purpose, and reformed by grace

We affirm that formation is not a moment, but a lifelong journey continually shaped by our experiences and responses (Romans 12:1–2, 2 Corinthians 3:18) Formation occurs across our whole person – body, mind, heart and spirit – and across our whole lives – our relationships, vocation, and leisure (Deuteronomy 6:5-7) In all things we are called to live out our re-formation for the sake of those around us, using our gifts and personalities in the context we have been placed (1 Corinthians 12:5-7, 1 Peter 4:10-11).

Therefore, formation is embedded in every aspect of school life – academic, relational, emotional, physical, and spiritual Staff and students alike are invited into a rhythm of continual growth.

We uphold the foundation of formation is the Spirit at work through a community of grace centred on God’s word (Luke 6:40, Philippians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7). A flourishing life is one that occurs when people root themselves in God’s design, given through His word (Psalm 1:1–3, John 17:17, 2 Timothy 3:16–17). Scripture establishes regular practices for the purpose of ongoing formation toward Jesus, so our learning communities are saturated in Scripture, prayer and shaped by intentional relationships (Deuteronomy 31:1213, Psalm 92:1-2) Staff play a vital role in modelling Christlike character, since formation is caught as much as it is taught

We recognise that formation often occurs in trials and difficulties. We understand that often it is through the crucible of hardship that deep maturation and learning occur (James 1:2–4, Romans 5:3–5) While much grief occurs due to situations beyond our control, we can, as fallen beings, make unhelpful choices as we grow This truth reframes discipline as a loving act of formation, producing “a harvest of righteousness and peace” (Hebrews 12:5-11) Therefore, our learning communities embrace a theology of suffering and loving correction.

We assert that the ultimate aim of formation is to be like Christ (Galatians 4:19, Romans 8:29) This is not achieved by human effort alone, but through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16, Romans 8:5–11, Galatians 5:22–23). Therefore, our learning communities cultivate spiritual attentiveness, prayerful dependence, and openness to the Spirit’s work.

We are called to partner with God in the formation of staff and students into the likeness of Christ.

We are called to partner with God in the formation of staff and students into the likeness of Christ.

Belonging

At SPCE we recognise that God designed each person to belong in community, and we seek to provide such a space.

We believe that belonging reflects the heart of God’s design for humanity, revealed in the Trinity where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are unified in a community shaped by love. In the same way, we seek to build a kingdom “home,” reflective of God’s original creative purpose for human beings to belong and to be at home in Him. Here, staff and students are welcomed, affirmed, and invited to participate fully in God’s family, learning to love, serve, and grow together (Ephesians 2:19).

We are committed to cultivating a school community that meets the deep human need to belong and be safe. We desire for every person to feel connected, valued, accepted, and cared for, and where they are empowered to flourish as God designed (Ephesians 4:16) We intentionally create safe spaces where everyone can belong, places of trust, security, and freedom to grow and learn as God intended (Psalm 91:12)

We recognise that God invites and welcomes us into His kingdom home where each of us has a significant place and purpose in accomplishing His plans. We affirm that part of belonging is providing space for each student and staff member to use their unique God-given gifts to contribute to our shared life. Together, we

serve one another and express our purpose within a community of faith – where each person is valued, supported, and invited to play their part in God’s bigger story (1 Peter 4:10).

We affirm that our school community is intentional and invitational as a place of belonging, marked by generous hospitality, both within our walls and beyond. By welcoming one another and those new to our community, we reflect the generous heart of God, who invites all people into a redemptive relationship with Him (Hebrews 13:2).

We acknowledge that belonging also means participating in God’s mission of reconciliation. In all we do, we strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment where students and staff alike can encounter God’s love, hope, and the invitation to belong (Matthew 25:35)

We seek to be a place where students, staff and families find a place of physical, social and spiritual belonging.

We seek to be a place where students, staff and families find a place of physical, social and spiritual belonging.

Care and Serving Others

At SPCE, we believe that caring for and serving others is central to the Christian faith.

We believe service flows from the very heart of God, revealed in Jesus Christ, the Servant King. Through His ministry and sacrificial death, Jesus established service as a defining mark of Christian discipleship and community. We seek to align our community with Jesus’ redemptive mission –coming to serve rather than be served and demonstrating the ultimate act of love in laying down His life for the world (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45).

We are committed to following Christ’s example by expressing genuine care and sacrificial love, setting aside self-interest to serve one another (Philippians 2:4). In doing so, we become the hands and feet of Jesus, a tangible expression of His immeasurable love As we serve others selflessly, we make the love of Christ visible and create space for others to encounter Him (John 13:34–35; Matthew 22:37–39)

We believe that our service, whether seen or unseen, is an act of worship, participating in God’s mission. By serving others, we reflect His heart for the world – demonstrating justice, mercy, and love (Colossians 3:23–24; Micah 6:8) Acts of service strengthen relationships and foster a sense of unity, care, and flourishing within both the Christian community and the wider world. Love for God and love for others are inseparable (Matthew 22:37–39).

We affirm that our service to God and one another extends to caring for God’s creation (Genesis 2:15) We recognise that God created us as embodied beings, placed within a living world, designed to flourish in relationship with the rest of His creation. As God’s representatives, we model His character through care and stewardship of all His creation.

We hold that Christian care and service are more than values – they are the living expression of Jesus’ teaching. They shape a community where disciples are nurtured to love God and others deeply, serve selflessly, and bring His justice, mercy, and hope into the world (Micah 6:8). Through this formation, we are equipped to be culture makers, reflecting Christ in every part of our lives

We see that in caring for and serving others we are modelling Christ and worshipping God.

We see that in caring for and serving others we are modelling Christ and worshipping God.

Leadership

SPCE is a place where leadership is modelled and developed.

We recognise Jesus as our ultimate leader. God is sovereign and has appointed Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour (Philippians 2:9-11; Colossians 1:15). Regardless of our titles, He is our ultimate senior office holder (1 Timothy 6:15). Christian leadership is delegated authority, defined by submission to Jesus, service to His Kingdom, following His example.

We affirm that God calls and graces His people with diverse gifts, including leadership, given both to women and men (Romans 12:8, Galatians 3:28). We do not merit the gifts and calling we receive, they are for the benefit of others to His praise and glory (1 Corinthians 4:7; 2 Timothy 1:9) Our responsibility is to exercise these gifts diligently and faithfully to the service of God in the service of others (Romans 12:8; 1 Peter 4:10)

We acknowledge that when we lead in Christ’s name, it is both a gracious privilege and a weighty responsibility, because we represent more than ourselves, our role, and our organisation We recognise that temptations are great, our frailty is ever-present, and the cost of erring is high Leaders must humbly rely on God’s grace and the Spirit’s guidance Those in leadership are given much - entrusted with responsibility and power - and have much demanded of them (Luke 12:48). God will hold leaders accountable, including their hidden motivations (James 3:1; Hebrews 13:17; 2 Corinthians 5:10).

We believe that Christian leadership is always spiritual. There is a bigger story and more at work than we see with our eyes (Ephesians 6:12). Spiritual leadership involves discipleship and the formation of individuals, as well as guiding the moral and spiritual character of the community (Colossians 1:28). Prayer and spiritual disciplines are essential to develop the courage and conviction to uphold and advance goodness, truth, and justice.

We see the leadership of Jesus as marked by divine authority lovingly expressed in humility, service and sacrifice for others. We are called to follow His example, humbling ourselves with a posture that looks to the benefit of others, and seeks first not what we can gain but what we can give (John 13:14-15; Philippians 2:5-7; 1 Peter 5:5-6) The value of a leader is not in position, power, or praise, for God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble (Matthew 23:11-12; 1 Peter 5:5-6)

We assert that Christian leadership is deeply relational, and trust is the foundation of those relationships Leaders build trust by creating an environment where people feel safe, understood, and valued, confident that their leader’s motivation is for their good Therefore, Christian leadership is generous in encouragement, clear in communication, just in correction, and firm in accountability Leaders develop others and their gifts and calling, including raising up the next generation of leaders: bringing about the best for individuals and the community.

We see that Christian leaders are pioneers and innovators. We are in the midst of God’s story, and there is more goodness, truth, and beauty to be realised. We never settle for the status quo or the wins of the past. Inspired by God, we pioneer, pushing the horizon of creativity and innovation in pursuit of His kingdom.

We see Christian leadership as a gift, a responsibility, and an opportunity to model Christ, and pursue God’s mission.

We see Christian leadership as a gift, a responsibility, and an opportunity to model Christ, and pursue God’s mission.

Purpose and Vocation

At SPCE, we affirm that every human being is called by God into a life of purpose, shaped by identity in Christ and expressed through vocation This calling is not merely a career path or role, but a holistic invitation to participate in God’s creative and redemptive mission in the world. As a community of Christian learning, we seek to cultivate environments where this calling is discovered, nurtured, and lived out in diverse and meaningful ways.

We believe that our most significant calling from God is to relationship with Him. God Himself is the initiator of vocation, He chooses us according to His purposes and grace, calling us by name with the intimacy of a Father (Isaiah 43:1, 2 Timothy 1:9). At the centre of this call is fellowship with Christ (1 Corinthians 1:9). As learning communities, we understand education not as the pursuit of self-fulfilment alone, but as an invitation to discern and respond to God’s call with faith and courage Our learning environments, chapels, and relationships are spaces where students, staff, and families are encouraged to locate their story within God’s redemptive story, learning to trust His voice and live in obedience to His call

We understand that before we are called to do, we are called to be. Vocation flows from identity, and this identity is found in Christ Through faith we become “children of God” (John 1:12), chosen, adopted, and sealed with the Spirit as those redeemed in Christ (Ephesians 1:3–14). From this identity comes the exhortation to “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1–3). Our vocation, then, is not first

about tasks or professions, but about becoming more like Jesus (1 John 2:6, Romans 8:28–30) As an educational institution, character formation stands at the heart of our vocation practice, as we nurture students who know their identity in Christ and who live with integrity, compassion, and resilience. Staff are called to model this identity in their teaching and pastoral care, and families are invited into the shared work of forming young people who are confident in their belonging and equipped to reflect Christ in all of life.

We believe that God calls us to people. The love of God and the love of neighbour are inseparable, for God’s love for people is immeasurable (Matthew 22:37-40, Ephesians 3:20, 1 John 3:1). We find purpose and meaning in relationship, family, and community. We believe God calls us to love and serve particular communities at particular times and places Vocation, giftedness, and God-inspired work serve the call to love others, and must never eclipse their intended purpose; it is about people (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)

We acknowledge that God’s call is not only about who we are but also about what we are sent to do. From creation, humanity was entrusted with the task to “fill the earth and subdue it”, to “rule over every living creature”, and to “work it and take care of it”, using our gifts as image-bearers of the Creator (Genesis 1:26–28, Genesis 2:15). We recognise that in Christ, this mission is renewed and redirected toward reconciliation, renewal and witness (Colossians 1:19–20, 2 Corinthians 5:17–19, Matthew 28:18–20).

We believe that within this global mission, each person is uniquely gifted, shaped, and placed in specific contexts to serve as God’s ambassadors (1 Corinthians 12:4–7, 2 Corinthians 5:20). These gifts are entrusted to us as stewards to the praise of God (1 Peter 4:10–11). This calling extends to every sphere of life (1 Corinthians 7:17). As Paul reminds us, “whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).

As educators, we see this truth expressed in the wholeness of learning and life: classrooms, academic disciplines, relationships, co-curricular activities, and service opportunities are all sacred spaces where vocation is discovered and lived out. Our role is to help students and support their families discern their gifts and passions and to train them to live faithfully in their unique contexts, recognising that every aspect of life can become an offering of worship and a participation in God’s mission

We submit to God as our vocational director. For students and educators, we can take comfort from the fact that God is shaping us for the good work that he has organised for us in Christ: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

We help staff and students to lean into the specific ways that God has gifted and is calling them to live out their purpose in the bigger story of what God is doing in the world.

We help staff and students to lean into the specific ways that God has gifted and is calling them to live out their purpose in the bigger story of what God is doing in the world.

Advantages of a multi-school group

Being part of a network of schools brings many advantages to all members of our school community

At St Philip’s Christian Education (SPCE), we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to experience a great education This includes both exemplar academic teaching and learning practices as well as the benefit of being afforded a range of wrap-around experiences throughout the schooling journey At SPCE a journey which is firmly embedded within Christian beliefs, values and practices

Across Australia, research is showing us that many students are not afforded this opportunity.

fell short of

About one in three students the proficiency benchmark in literacy and numeracy in the 2025

We firmly believe that to counteract this trend, the remedy lies in forming a multi-school group. As the research shows, what sets multi-school groups (MSGs) apart is the capacity of the Executive Leadership and the wider Central Office Team, to offer guidance and assistance, in contrast to the isolated stance of individual schools. The proven pattern for success is ingrained within the SPCE structure, facilitated by the formal ties between schools and the Central Office. Entities within the SPCE group receive clear direction and significant support, enabling them to implement a unified strategy for operating a successful school

KEY ADVANTAGES TO A MULTI-SCHOOL GROUP

Seasoned and experienced Executive

Leadership outwork proven and effective strategy across the group

Principals benefit as they support each other and collaborate for better outcomes for students and staff

Student outcomes can be improved because of the greater pool of expertise and access to resources

Opportunities for expansion and innovation are created with the larger scale of operation

Economies of scale can realise cost savings

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT

Each of our school principals are supported and encouraged in their role as well as being accountable in their operations of the school.

Principals receive support and guidance from the CEO, Deputy CEO, CFO, COO, Senior Executive Team & Executive Principal for K-12 Schools with strategic and financial planning, along with wellbeing and crisis management support. The Principal’s meet regularly to support and pray for one another. The Collegial Support Team allows them to share resources and coordinate improvement efforts.

The Leadership Pipeline is a bespoke leadership development program designed for SPCE middle leaders which supports them in their career progression and prepares them for a leadership role within the organisation

CENTRAL OFFICE TEAM

A multi-school group has the benefit of a Central Office which can provide all schools and entities within the group the added advantage of specialist support that otherwise cannot be accessed in a stand-alone school. The Central Office provides professional services including leadership support, educational consultation, professional development, staff collaboration, human resources, finance, building services, risk management, information and communication technology, marketing and communications.

Economies of scale mean that individual entities benefit from larger scale and higher-level resourcing across many areas.

BENEFITS OF CROSS-SCHOOL TEAMS

Cross-school teams made up of specialist staff from each entity get together regularly to share best practice and develop shared frameworks and resources This in turn provides broad benefits for the staff and students in the individual entities. At SPCE, cross-school teams have been established for:

Teaching and Learning

Wellbeing

Strengths

Academic Standards and Growth

VET and Partnerships

Teaching School Coordinators

Christian Education

Global Partnerships

TEACHER TRAINING

The St Philip's Teaching School was formed by St Philip's Christian Education Foundation in 2018, in partnership with Alphacrucis University College, bringing to life the vision to train and equip Christian educators within a school community Since 2018, we have grown our village with multiple tertiary providers and affiliate schools The Teaching School is an apprenticeship model of teacher training; Trainee teachers experience school life from day one of their degree with the support of dedicated mentor teachers and the Teaching School team

The reality of this program could only have been realised due to the nature of the SPCE group and the network of schools that can provide a training ground for the studying teachers.

Providing an enriching and liberating educational experience

BENEFITS OF SCHOOL COLLABORATION

There is an increasing body of evidence for the benefits of formal partnership between schools which include:

Sharing responsibility to meet rising expectations, resulting in better student progress and attainment

Shared strategic thinking, planning and expertise for school leaders, board members and teachers to tackle challenges together

New and different inter-school solutions to address recruitment and retention challenges as well as to plan succession more effectively Opportunities to fund specialist expertise within a school group and provide richer curricular and extracurricular activities

Increased options for shared professional development whether led by staff from one of the partner schools or an outside body

New economies of scale and collective purchase made possible within larger groups, helping schools to realise cost savings

Running a group of schools enables SPCE to offer more opportunities to staff Staff benefit from a range of hands-on professional development opportunities that a stand-alone school would be hard-pressed to deliver. This includes induction programs, specialist training for middle leaders, and training for non-teaching staff.

Staff across the network are provided professional development opportunities throughout the year. The staff formally met together twice a year for vision casting and professional development. The mid-year conference allows staff to collaborate with their faculty counterparts from across the group to swap best practice and to collaborate on innovative pedagogy and classroom practice.

Teachers attend organisation-wide curriculum excellence master-classes for all subject areas

Staff are also able to benefit from training on skills outside of the teaching profession like talent acquisition or website design

Students have the opportunity to be involved in many cross-school activities in the areas of sport, performing arts, Christian ministry, service learning, leadership, cross-school competitions and lifestyle and education courses.

Cross-school student opportunities provides students further opportunities to expand their skills and experience in a community wider than their individual school. It enables students to learn from and draw from staff from other learning communities within the group who have alternate and unique strengths and teaching styles. This is particularly beneficial for smaller schools within the group.

The opportunity to engage in activities within a larger community expands students’ educational journey within the same ethos and educational environment that the group provides

Multi-School Groups can take advantage of running multiple schools to offer teachers and other professionals (such as IT and facilities staff) career pathways and professional development opportunities that are not possible in standalone schools

St Philip’s Christian Education Foundation

SPCEF Ltd is a not-for-profit company, limited by guarantee, whose constitution explains that its core business is the development and maintenance of Christian education. The Foundation elects a Board of Governors, who in turn appoints a Chief Executive Officer. The Executive Principal leads and oversees the various operations of the Board, which includes a number of individually run mainstream and special schools, early childhood education centres and support services.

St Philip's Christian College was founded in 1982 by the vision and efforts of the leaders and people of St Philip's Anglican Church, Waratah. Initially the College was operated as an undertaking of St Philip's Anglican Church. However, in May 1985, St Philip's Education Foundation Limited was formed and this nonprofit company took over the ownership and operation of the College.

The St Philip's group is led by the Executive Principal (CEO), Mr Graeme Irwin. Graeme is the founder of the group and has overseen the development of the group from its establishment in 1982.

Graeme reports to the Board and is chartered with leading, developing, managing and maintaining the current and planned future operations of the Foundation. Each of the School Principals are responsible to the Executive Principal and meet regularly as the Cross Divisional Leadership Team (CDLT) in matters relating to the operations of the group of schools.

The Chairman of the Board of Governors is Mr Leslie J Holland The Board of Governors meet together eight times a year to develop the strategy and parameters in which the group operates.

St Philip’s Christian Education Learning Communities

EARLY LEARNING

Early and Extended Education

Executive Principal, Mrs Lea Rule

Narnia Early Learning Centres

Executive Director, Mrs Nicole Denzin

COLLEGES

Cessnock College

Principal, Mr Matthew Connett

Gosford College

Principal, Mr Cameron Johnston

Newcastle College Principal, Mr Jamie Fahey

Port Stephens College

Principal, Mr Martin Telfer

Snowy Mountains College

Principal, Mr Peter Muddle

TAILORED EDUCATION

Tailored Education

Executive Principal, Mrs Michelle Cairelli

Dynamic Learning College Principal, Mrs Alison Warran

Gilibaa Principal, Mr Jonathan Lilley

Saints Academy

Head of Saints Academy and Tharreo Adventure Education, Mr Paul Wellham

Young Parents

Principal, Mrs Amanda McInnes

TERTIARY EDUCATION

Teaching School

Executive Principal, Mrs Samantha Van de Mortel

St Philip’s Christian College

f i ectors

Mr Robert Fogg

Director since 2014

Mr Stephen Clarke Director since 2015

Mrs Ksenia East Director since 2025

Mrs Jennifer Hoffman Director since 2025

Newcastle College 1982

Narnia Early Learning formally named Narnia Preschool 1992

Port Stephens College 1995

Dynamic Learning College Waratah formally named DALE Christian School Waratah 1997

2000

2005

2007

Young Parents College, Waratah & Narnia Early Learning Centre formally named DALE Young Parents School

Cessnock College acquisition of small school with 28 students

Gosford College acquisition of established school and ELC

Young Parents Central Coast & Narnia Early Learning Centre 2009

2010

Central Office

Established central office to administer group of schools Formally named Foundation Office

2012

Dynamic Learning College, Cessnock Formally named DALE

Dynamic Learning College, Gosford Formally named DALE 2014

Narnia ELC Port Stephens 2017

St Philip’s Teaching School Tertiary Teacher Training 2018

Saints Academy Reimagining the hours outside of the school day 2023

Gilibaa College First Indigenous College Campus 2024

Tharreo Adventure Education 2025

SPCC Snowy Mountains Acquisition of small school with 47 students

St Philip‘s Christian College Student Numbers

ST PHILIP’S CENTRAL OFFICE EXISTS TO

Ensure the organisation remains true to its Christian Mission

Ensure that all activity and endeavours result in better outcomes for our students

Pursue growth opportunities

To facilitate the efficient functioning of the schools

Governance Secretariat

Provide advice to the Board and Sub-Committees. Organise Board meetings, papers, minutes, reports, communications, registers, functions etc.

CDT

(Commercial Division Team)

Providing comprehensive support to all entities in the areas of:

Financial Services

Risk & Compliance Policy Development and Legal Management

ICT

Corporate Fundraising & Grants

Financial Services

Responsible for the coordination and execution of the strategic response plan, focusing on external initiatives like strategic partnerships, entity multiplication and expansion initiatives and external influence and advocacy.

Office of the CEO SET

The Senior Executive Team is a collaborative and decision making forum that ensures that organisational priorities reflect a unified, Christ-centred vision and that governance standards are upheld across all divisions and entities.

Have oversight to all financial systems in the entire organisation and provide centralised service; accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, treasury services, insurance, WC, Uniform Shop, Contracts, Procurement, Audits, accreditation etc.

Risk & Compliance, Policy and Legal Management

Group-wide emergency and critical incident management, compliance and risk frameworks, policy development and reporting.

ICT Services

Management of group network, systems and devices, hardware procurement.

Data, Student Support, Help Desk and telephony planning.

Corporate Fundraising

Strategic, coordinated, and sustainable approach to resourcing the growth and development of our organisation. Incorporates the development of strategic donor partnerships, the delivery of targeted philanthropic initiatives, and the coordination of group-wide fundraising efforts aligned to priority projects and capital developments.

ODS

(Operations Division Services)

Drives strategic growth initiatives and cross campus operational excellence, including: HR Services

Infrastructure and Development

Communication, Marketing and Events

Partnerships and Growth

Infrastructure & Development

Supports the schools and entities with strategic oversight and project delivery for major and minor building projects and major maintenance works

Employment Services

Coaching and mentoring, HR support, MEA agreements interpretation, contracts, induction training, performance reviews, child protection investigations, covering all areas of HR and employment law

Communications, Events & Marketing

Group-wide strategic communications, stakeholder communication, group-wide events coordination, website development and management, digital marketing, graphic design, videography and photography support, advertising

Partnerships & Growth

Is the team responsible for identifying, cultivating and managing strategic relationships to enhance the organisastion’s reach, reputation and resources including: aquisitions, new site development and market analysis

Tertiary & Teaching School

Delivers a unique teacher training program with a Christ-centred approach fostering innovation and practical experience. From day one of their degree, trainees are immersed in a classroom environment guided by a dedicated mentor teacher who provides care and supervision, helping trainees to seamlessly integrate into the rhythm of a classroom.

Central Office Team

In the heart of St Philip's Christian College lies our Central Office. It's more than just an administrative centre; it's the core that breathes life into our network of Colleges, Centres, and Initiatives.

Our structure at St Philip's Christian College is unique in that we have a Central Office which provides support to our network of schools The schools benefit from extra resources and professional services including leadership support, educational consultation, professional development, staff collaboration, human resources, finance, building services, risk management, information and communication technology and marketing communications

Senior Executive Team

In all that we do we believe we are called to be leaders in whole of life education and we are continually looking to ways that we can further this endeavour The Central Office is committed to enabling the best possible educational journey for our entire SPCC community

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Graeme Irwin

Deputy CEO

Graeme Evans

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jacques Cronje

Chief Operations Officer (COO) Peter Saggin

Executive Principal Tailored Education

Executive Principal Tertiary Education

Executive Principal Early & Extended Education

Lea Rule

Executive Principal K-12

Martin Tefler

St Philip’s Operational Model

BOARD BOARD COMMITTEES

Les Holland CHAIRMAN

Stephen Clarke DIRECTOR

Robert Fogg DIRECTOR

Jenny Hoffman DIRECTOR

Ksenia East DIRECTOR

Graeme Irwin CEO

Finance, Governance & Risk

Community, People, Property & Growth Education

Garry Paget COMPANY SECRETARY

Jacques Cronje CCFO

Graeme Evans DCEO

Membership

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Graeme Irwin

SENIOR EXECUTIVE TEAM

ST PHILIP’S CHRISTIAN EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Our Ethos Statement

St Philip‘s Christian College is a non-denominational, independent, co-educational, Early Learning to Tertiary Learning Christian School.

u r C o r e

Christ First

WE HONOUR CHRIST IN ALL THINGS.

WE APPRECIATE THE UNIQUE GOD-GIVEN POTENTIAL OF EACH PERSON. Serve One Another

Strive

for Excellence

WE AIM TO DO OUR VERY BEST ALL THE TIME.

WE ALWAYS BEHAVE IN A CHRISTIAN MANNER. Do What is Right

WE ENSURE EVERYONE FEELS LIKE THEY BELONG. Build Community

Group Strategy Summary

Our History

St Philip's Christian College was founded in 1982 by the vision and efforts of the leaders and people of St Philip's Anglican Church, Waratah. The founders passionately believed in the need for an independent school that would develop the 'whole child'spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically; a school that would maintain high academic and behavioural standards and at the same time effectively proclaim the liberating truth of the Christian Gospel.

Classes commenced on 4th February, 1982 in renovated areas within the church facilities The College catered for students from Kindergarten to Year 7 during 1982. Each year thereafter, another academic year was added up to Year 10 in 1985. Year 11 classes commenced in 1988 with the first Higher School Certificate candidates being presented in 1989.

The flagship college at Newcastle now has over 1 ,300 students enrolled from Preschool to Year 12.

In 1995 a new school of the College was established at Salamander Bay. Classes commenced on 1st February, 1995 with 41 students from Kindergarten to Year 6 and two teachers. In 2001 the first group of School Certificate students graduated and in 2004 the first HSC students were awarded their certificates St Philip’s Christian College Port Stephens now has an enrolment of over 700 students from Kindergarten to Year 12.

1997 saw the establishment of an alternative school called the DALE (Dynamic Alternate Learning Environment) Program. St Philip's Christian College DALE is a Dynamic Alternative Learning Environment for students in Years 3 – 11 who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder, social and emotional difficulties or a mild intellectual disability.

In 2000 a unit for young mothers complete with crèche facilities and specialised support was added. In 2015 the young mothers program became a stand-alone school now known as SPCC DALE Young Parents DALE Young Parents has two campuses located in Newcastle and Wyong, providing flexible learning environments and onsite early learning care for their babies whilst they study.

In October 1997, the College acquired Narnia Christian Preschool. Narnia expanded to become a 0-6 years Early Learning Centre which has now been rolled out in each of our mainstream schools Narnia has also taken on the management of the crèche at DALE Young Parents transitioning these programs to an accredited Early Learning Centre

Cessnock Christian School was acquired in late 2004 and became a school of the College at the beginning of 2005. The school has seen rapid growth in property development and student enrolment and now has an enrolment of over 1000 students. St Philip's Christian College Cessnock is located on a 42-hectare site on Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba

Gosford Christian School was acquired by the St Philip's group of schools in 2007 Nestled in the picturesque natural setting of the Narara Valley on the NSW Central Coast, St Philip's Christian College Gosford now provides coeducational independent Christian education to over 500 students from Preschool to Year 12 in a nurturing and supportive environment.

In 2018 St Philip’s Christian College established the St Philip’s Teaching School. The St Philip's Teaching School, in partnership with Alphacrucis College, is a higher education school which provides Christ-centred tertiary education for students who have a desire to pursue a vocation in Christian Education. The Teaching School offers courses from a Bachelors level right through to PhD, with the distinct inclusion of the Cadetship Program for select B Ed Students. The Teaching School operates on-site at the St Philip's Schools providing students with the unique opportunity of being apprenticed by a Mentor Teacher within the College and immediate application of their tertiary study in the school setting. Our pioneer cohort of 8 students began classes in January of 2018. In 2026, our total enrolments have grown to 80 trainees

The College is a member of the NSW Independent Schools and numerous links have been forged with other independent schools locally and further afield The College is also a member of the Australian Association of Christian Schools and the Hunter Region Independent Schools.

In 2025 SPCE was awarded their first approval for Ethical Accreditation With the growing scrutiny over governance in Charitable and Christian organisations, we saw the need for a public demonstration of ethical, transparent and accountable practices Christian Management Australia, through its Standards Council offers a framework that allows Christian entities to affirm their governance standards in line with biblical principles. This accreditation is renewed annually

SPCE Goals

THE NUTURE & STRENGTHENING OF EACH STUDENT’S CHRISTIAN FAITH & LIFESTYLE

This goal recognises the supreme importance of the need for salvation and sanctification and that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit each student should be brought to Jesus Christ who is their Lord and Saviour

This involves:

A grounding in Christian knowledge and doctrine

Encouraging Christian growth, fruits and gifts

Training in worship and devotional habits

Participation in the life of the church

Motivation for positive Christian involvement in society and the world

Encouraging Christian witness

Supporting Christian family life

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE & THE ATTAINMENT OF EACH STUDENT’S ACADEMIC POTENTIAL

Students need the appropriate knowledge, skills and attitudes to be able to relate competently within mankind and to be able to draw on all the richness and wisdom of humanity. They also need to be taught to wonder at, and respect God's creation around them.

This involves:

developing effective communication skills - speaking, listening, reading and writing

developing wisdom through respect and appreciation of human experience appreciating and participating in visual and performing arts

developing an appreciation of and respect for the physical universe acquiring skills in observing, recording, researching and reporting training for competent use of mathematical processes promoting problem comprehension and solving skills

developing a wide range of manual skills

encouraging a lifestyle that will enhance health and physical development

THE PROVISION OF A SECURE BUT CHALLENGING LEARNING ATMOSPHERE FOR EACH STUDENT

In the wrong atmosphere the spirit of a child will close up. Students need an atmosphere where they can be free to achieve their potential.

This will involve:

THE ACCEPTANCE BY EACH STUDENT OF THEIR RESPONSIBILITY TO THEMSELVES, TO OTHERS AND TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY

Students need to be trained in self discipline. To this end the formation of good habits is of utmost importance. "If we fail to ease life by laying down habits of right thinking and right acting, habits of wrong thinking and wrong action fix themselves of their own accord."

Therefore, this goal involves:

maintaining a secure environment for each child promoting a happy and hopeful atmosphere providing a stimulating and productive learning environment promoting attainable excellence in achievement and conduct promoting obedience and respect for authority, others and property fostering positive attitudes and commitment to scholastic and College involvement forming Biblical moral values encouraging the adherence to high codes of speech, dress and conduct training in the habit of attention and concentration encouraging truthfulness promoting awareness of others and unselfishness

THE FULL & BALANCED DEVELOPMENT OF EACH STUDENT

Not only should the curriculum be complete and taught in the most conducive atmosphere under the liberating discipline but the whole school experience should breathe life Life is meant to be enjoyed

This will involve: encouraging students to experience the abundant victorious life Jesus offers fostering the appreciation of beauty, excellence and greatness providing a rich and wide range of ideas presenting knowledge and skills which have a general and vocational application promoting the value of team effort and contributing to the group providing contact with a wide crosssection of people in wholesome learning situations encouraging creative and soul stirring pursuits appreciating the rewarding cycle of hard work and relaxation

Our Emblem

Our Emblem depicts 5 loaves and 2 fish super-imposed over a cross.

This insignia symbolises the value of every child (taken from the Biblical account of the young boy who gave 5 loaves and 2 fish with which Jesus fed 5000 people) All parts of the emblem are symbolic of a sacrifice for the wellbeing of others. Most important of all, the cross stands as a monument of the atonement won for us by Christ at Calvary and the power of the risen Lord for our everyday lives

Our Motto

THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE

Our Motto - “The Way, The Truth, The Life” is taken from the words of Jesus in John 14:6.

I am the Way, the Truth and the Life; no-one comes to the Father but by me.

JOHN 14:6

Jesus alone is the means by which men, women, girls and boys can come to know for themselves our Creator and Father God

College Prayer

Almighty God whom truly to know is eternal life, grant us perfectly to know your Son Jesus Christ to be the Way, the Truth and the Life, that following in the steps of your holy apostle St Philip, we may steadfastly walk in the way that leads to eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father. Through Him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation He came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit He was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; He suffered death and was buried On the third day He rose again in accordance with the scriptures; He ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and His kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son He is worshipped and glorified. He has spoken through the prophets

We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.

AMEN