Independent Schools Victoria

07/09/2026

Challenging classroom conversations can be difficult to navigate.

ISV’s Consent & Respectful Relationships Education (CRRE) webinar series continues with Managing Challenging Classroom Conversations, a free webinar exploring practical strategies for conversations involving sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia and misogyny.

Participants will learn how to create a safe environment while encouraging critical dialogue, and turn challenging moments into opportunities for learning and respectful discussion.

Register here: https://bit.ly/4gFxZLV

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05/09/2026

From Dorothy and Little Red Riding Hood to the Big Bad Wolf and Pikachu, Book Week is a much-loved highlight of the school year, bringing the whole school community together to celebrate the joy of reading and storytelling.

From the festival parade and Where’s Wally hunt to classroom transformations inspired by favourite books, students at Bacchus Marsh Grammar had plenty of opportunities to embrace literacy, creativity and imagination.

05/09/2026

Belgrave Heights Christian School reached a significant milestone with the opening of its new senior learning centre.

ISV Senior Project Officer Aisling Allen attended the opening to celebrate the school’s investment in new learning spaces for senior students and its future growth. The new facility was supported through the Australian Government’s Capital Grants Program.

Senator Lisa Darmanin also spoke at the opening, joining members of the school community to mark the occasion.

Congratulations to Belgrave Heights Christian School on this exciting new chapter!

04/09/2026

It was a pleasure to attend the Wesley College Foundation Business Lunch, with ISV Chief Executive Rachel Holthouse joining ISV Chair and Wesley College Foundation Chair Marianne Stillwell.

Moderated by Wesley alumnus Graeme Samuel AC, the event featured an impressive panel of Professor the Hon Gareth Evans, Professor Sharon Pickering and Peter Tesch.

A great opportunity to hear from leaders across education, government and international affairs, while connecting with members of the Wesley College community.

04/09/2026

Transitions happen all day, every day. But how often do we stop to consider the impact they can have on our learners?

Join us to explore how we can identify friction, understand what’s happening beneath the surface for learners, and create more flow throughout the school day.

You’ll leave with practical strategies and tools you can put into action straight away.

Register now: https://bit.ly/4x4cj0A

03/09/2026

‘There are a number of buttons you push as a leader, but at the end of the day people want to believe in the work you do.’ – Brad Fry, Principal, Tintern Grammar

A great conversation on what it takes to lead sustainable schools.

The School Case Studies Panel at today’s School Leaders Conference 2026 brought together four school leaders to share real experiences of navigating significant change, making difficult decisions and building a strong future for their communities.

From turning around challenging circumstances and adapting strategy, to strengthening enrolments and supporting long-term sustainability, the panel offered practical perspectives on the realities of leading complex change.

Thank you to Anthony Steer from Toorak College, Brad Fry from Tintern Grammar, Nicola Forrest from Cornish College and Jonathan Walter from Carey Baptist Grammar School for contributing to such an engaging discussion.

A fitting way to wrap up a day of connection, learning and thoughtful conversations about leading sustainable schools.

03/09/2026

And we’re off! Our 2026 School Leaders Conference is underway, bringing together more than 150 school leaders from across Victoria to connect, share ideas and explore what it means to lead sustainable schools.

We’ve had an inspiring start, including a powerful Welcome to Country from Murrindindi and a Year 9 independent school student, an introduction from our Chief Executive Rachel Holthouse, and an engaging keynote from Bernard Salt.

Trained as a teacher and married to one, Bernard’s insights, warmth and deep understanding of the profession resonated with our school leaders.

There’s plenty more to come, including a school leaders panel and expert sessions exploring sustainable school leadership.

We’re looking forward to a day of connection, collaboration and inspiration.

02/09/2026

From strong traditions to creative learning, every school community has its own story to tell.

ISV Chief Executive Rachel Holthouse recently visited Kardinia International College, meeting with Principal Catherine Lockhart and learning more about the College’s strong connection to its Japanese heritage. She also visited Freshwater Creek Steiner School & Kindergarten, meeting with Head of School Gabby Brennan and seeing its creative approach to learning, from students rehearsing a play to a music lesson in the sunshine.

Thank you to both schools for welcoming Rachel and sharing what makes their communities special.

02/09/2026

With just one day to go until our School Leaders Conference: Leading Sustainable Schools, our team has been busy preparing and packing all the materials for our attendees!

We’re looking forward to welcoming and connecting with our member school leaders tomorrow for a day of insights, ideas and conversations focused on building sustainable schools for the future.

01/09/2026

There are currently three key risk and compliance developments schools should have on their radar.

From the proposed ban on personal devices in schools, to the Children’s Online Privacy Code and the upcoming VRQA Guidelines to the Minimum Standards, these changes may have important implications for schools.

Stay informed with practical insights and updates through ISV’s upcoming Risk and Compliance webinar series. Register here: https://bit.ly/4cmG717