Why collaboration matters 

Strong collaboration between a P&C and the school principal supports better outcomes for students and a healthier school community. While the P&C and the school have different roles, both are working towards the same goal: a thriving public school. 

Collaboration doesn’t require agreement on everything. It does require mutual respect, clear roles, and good processes. 

Understanding each other’s roles 

The principal 

• is responsible for the day-to-day management of the school 
• represents the Education Directorate 
• provides context on policy, resourcing and operational constraints 

The P&C 

• represents the collective voice of parents and carers 
• operates as an independent incorporated association 
• makes decisions in line with its constitution and member resolutions 

Each brings a different perspective. Neither replaces the role of the other. 

Foundations for collaboration 

Good collaboration is built intentionally. 

Helpful foundations include: 

• agreeing how and when communication will occur 
• sharing information openly and respectfully 
• being clear about boundaries and responsibilities 
• approaching issues with curiosity rather than assumptions 

Clear expectations early make difficult conversations easier later. 

Building the relationship over time 

Strong collaboration is built through: 

• regular communication, not just formal meetings 
• transparency about challenges 
• acknowledging shared successes 
• respecting roles and boundaries 

Professional, respectful collaboration builds confidence and trust for everyone involved. 

Collaboration in meetings 

Meetings are a key space where collaboration happens in practice. 

Collaborative meetings are supported by: 

• clear agendas shared in advance 
• clarity about which items are for information, discussion or decision 
• respectful discussion guided by agreed meeting processes 

Good chairing is essential to effective collaboration. A well-chaired meeting helps ensure: 

• everyone has an opportunity to contribute 
• discussion stays focused and respectful 
• decisions are made fairly and transparently 

For more detail, see Chairing P&C Meetings Well. 

Navigating disagreement 

Disagreement is normal and does not mean collaboration has failed. 

When views differ: 

• focus on the issue, not personalities 
• ask questions to understand context or constraints 
• pause decisions where more information is needed 
• return to agreed processes and the constitution 

Some issues benefit from time and reflection rather than immediate resolution. 

When to seek support 

If collaboration becomes difficult: 

• revisit agreed processes 
• document discussions and decisions clearly 
• seek neutral advice early 

ACT Parents can help P&Cs think through next steps constructively and prevent issues from escalating. 

Related resources 

• Chairing P&C meetings well 
• Encouraging parent voice 
• P&C Governance and Operations 
• Meeting procedures