Strategic Plan 2025-2029

Nemo Sibi Nascitur
‘No-one is born for self alone’

The development of the Strategic Plan 2025-2029 has been undertaken in collaboration with our community, including staff, students, the Board, families, alumni, Association members and Quakers.  Through this process, we focused on the strengths of Friends’ that have endured over 138 years, and then identified the opportunities and aspirations given the world today.

Our new Strategic Plan represents the collective aspirations for our community and we are grateful for the many contributions, insights, suggestions and revisions that have emerged through the plan process.

As you read through the plan, it is clear that there is an overlap with the strategic pillars supporting, linking and connecting with one another.  Central to the development of the strategic pillars is our Quaker values, which are embedded in the Purpose and Concerns and the foundation and mission for our school community.

Thank you to all of you who have contributed to this new plan. I hope it provides a guide for you as we continue to provide, in the Quaker tradition, an education that seeks to allow all members of our community to shine their light and make a positive difference in the world.

In Friendship

Esther Hill
Principal | The Friends’ School

Our Purpose & Concerns

The Friends’ School is a coeducational Quaker school based on fundamental values such as the intrinsic worth of each person, the recognition of ‘that of God’ in everyone, the desirability of simplicity and the need to establish peace and justice.

As a learning community, we are concerned for the academic, cultural, physical, social, emotional and spiritual development of each person in our care.

We seek to help our students develop as people who will think clearly, act with integrity, make decisions for themselves, be sensitive to the needs of others and the environment, be strong in service and hold a global perspective.

We believe that these aims can best be achieved with the active support of all members of our School community.

Strategic Plan 2025-2029

The Friends’ School Strategic Plan 2025-2029, approved by the Board of Governors in the April 2025 meeting.

Strategic Pillars

Vision

We foster a community where each individual has a strong sense of intrinsic worth, built on belonging, connectedness, and opportunities to let their life speak.

Outcomes

Culture of Child Safety – We nurture a culture of child safety, ensuring the protection and wellbeing of all learners.

Positive Wellbeing Environment – Positive staff and student wellbeing is cultivated through an environment that promotes resilience, holistic health, and support for all.

Embracing Diversity – Diversity is embraced, valued, and celebrated, fostering an inclusive culture where everyone belongs.

Positive Relationships – We prioritise the development of skills to build and sustain positive relationships, enhancing the sense of connectedness within our community.

Safe & Inclusive Work Environment – We create a safe and inclusive work environment that promotes wellbeing, collaboration, and mutual respect for all staff

Vision

We inspire our community to be adaptable, lifelong learners—curious, hopeful, and committed to seeking truth and deep understanding.

Outcomes

Learner Development – All members of our community develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to thrive in partnership with families and the broader community.

Purposeful & Relevant Learning – Learning experiences are meaningful, purposeful, and relevant, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and ethical engagement with local and global contexts.

Personalised & Inclusive Learning – Learning is personalised, flexible, and responsive.

Engaging Teaching Practices – Engaging and innovative approaches to teaching and learning cultivate curiosity, motivation, and continuous growth.

Professional Learning – Our staff grow and develop professionally through a range of opportunities.

Vision

Quaker values and practices are the heart of our culture, guiding our community and shaping our shared journey together.

Outcomes

Quaker Presence – A strong and visible Quaker presence permeates all aspects of school life, fostering a community that embodies the values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and earth care.

Quaker Values – Quaker values are thoughtfully embedded across all E-12 programs, guiding teaching, learning, and relationships.

Environmental Stewardship – We implement a strategy for environmental care, focusing on climate action and fostering a regenerative future for our community and the planet.

Equity & Respect for All Cultures – We are committed to equity and respect for all cultures, embracing global perspectives and advancing reconciliation with First Nations peoples.

Vision

We are a united and vibrant community where all members feel a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and connection, grounded in our heritage and focused on our shared future.

Outcomes

Community Engagement & Communication – All staff, students, and parents are actively engaged in the School community, fostering connection, a shared sense of purpose, and supported by clear and effective communication.

Celebrating Heritage & Alumni Connections – We value our heritage and maintain strong connections with our alumni community – past students and families, past staff, volunteers and friends of the School.

Philanthropy & Service – We foster a culture of philanthropy and service, encouraging contribution to the School and the wellbeing of others across our community.

Future Community Growth – We nurture a strong community presence that attracts future staff, students, and parents.

Citizenship – We foster citizenship by building strong connections with Quaker, local and global communities.

Vision

We ensure responsible, sustainable, and ethical practices in our governance, leadership, and management, responding to the evolving needs of our community.

Outcomes

Governance & Decision-Making – Our governance ensures ethical leadership, compliance, and decision-making, integrating social responsibility and the Quaker values of discernment, constructive dialogue, and unity in all aspects of School operations.

Financial Sustainability – The School maintains financial stability, balancing opportunities and risks to ensure long-term financial viability and growth.

Stewardship of Resources – Our buildings, grounds, and facilities are developed and maintained to foster environmental sustainability, support optimal learning and wellbeing, and nurture a strong sense of community.

Workforce & Organisational Sustainability – Workforce planning and organisational structures are responsive to the current and future needs of the School, ensuring a thriving, inclusive, and adaptable community.

Risk & Safety Culture – We cultivate a culture of risk-awareness, accountability, and responsiveness, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and resilient environment for all.