VicSRC Clusters

Check out the VicSRC Cluster Kit here

What is a VicSRC Cluster?

An SRC Cluster is simply a local network – group of students from secondary school Student Representative Councils who meet regularly to share information, to discuss common concerns and issues, to plan joint initiatives and to share resources. Clusters can be any size, though it is suggested that at least three schools need to be represented for a Cluster to exist. Clusters should also meet regularly – at least once a term is useful, though this will depend on their location, purposes and the needs of its members.

Why do VicSRC Clusters exist?

Clusters exist so that SRCs can: - Gain information about other schools and about wider education policies; - Get ideas from each other; - Support each other; - Reflect together on their processes, successes and difficulties; - Further develop skills in organisation, leadership and participation; - Learn how to improve their operations; - Learn about possibilities for student initiatives; - Influence policy beyond individual schools; - Provide student representation and voice in local networks such as local councils, LLENs and so on; - Enter into local partnerships in education decision-making; - Develop efficient training; - Share resources.

How do they work?

The VicSRC links individual SRCs and Clusters at a state-wide level. To be recognised as a VicSRC Cluster, the Cluster must: - Invite all SRCs in the local area to join the Cluster; - Have a minimum of three participating schools; - Establish a representative link with the SRC in each participating school; - Agree to the VicSRC’s statement of aims; - Maintain regular communication with the VicSRC Executive (ie. after each Cluster meeting)

Support from outside organisations needed:

The VicSRC can act as a catalyst to help students initiate and set up a Cluster. However, the VicSRC does not have the resources to provide full or on-going support for every Cluster in Victoria. Therefore the VicSRC seeks local partners who can assist students to organise and facilitate their local Cluster meetings. In practice, this means organising tasks such as:

• Maintaining communication between the participating schools;

• Setting dates for meetings and sending out notices;

• Organising a venue (ideally provided by the school);

• Following up meetings with the circulation of minutes;

• Assisting students to convene any other working groups required.

It also involves facilitating the actual meetings as required:

• Making sure each meeting has an agenda;

• Appointing a meeting chairperson or facilitator;

• Supporting students in their roles.

Most tasks within meetings will be able to be done by students, particularly as the Cluster develops. There may be continuing support needed, the level of which will depend on the group and individual students. The VicSRC can provide sample agendas and guidance about how these tasks are carried out, drawing upon our experience from around the state.

There are currently two Cluster Groups operating in Victoria. One in the Whittlesea region and one in the Bayside,Kingston Glen Eira region.

The VicSRC is currently investigating establishing Cluster groups in the SouthEast Region, Geelong and Frankston. If you would like to be involved please contat the VicSRC Coordinator, Kate Walsh, on (03) 9267 3744 or email coordinator@vicsrc.org.au