I work at a NSW Department of Education K-6 public primary school. It is a brand-new school located in Western Sydney, which opened in October 2021. I was fortunate enough to be a foundational staff member and was entrusted with the lead role in establishing the library space. We opened with approximately 380 students and at the beginning of 2022, enrolment numbers jumped to approximately 820 students.
We are a school that has very much embraced 21st century education practices. Our ‘learning hubs’ are organised into stage-based groups that accommodate up to four traditional sized classes within the one hub. The whole school focus is on developing collegial relationships through collaborative teaching practices. We construct co-teaching plans and agreements and teach utilising various modes of the co-teaching model (Friend, 2007). But of course, underpinning this is Department of Education policy and procedures, which we are ultimately guided by.
With regards to decision-making, input from all staff is encouraged. Teachers are empowered, supported and valued for their contributions in building up a positive school culture.
Reference
Friend, M. (2007). Co-teaching approaches. The Co-Teaching Connection. http://www.marilynfriend.com/approaches.htm