Geraldton's very own St Lawrence’s Primary School P&F were acknowledged at the recent Parents & Friends Federation of Western Australia Inc (PFFWA) Annual Conference on may 23 and 24.

The PFFWA 2014 Awards for Excellence were presented at the Conference Dinner in Perth to honour the contributions of groups and individuals who had excelled in Building School Community.

St Lawrence’s Catholic Primary School P&F was acknowledged for members’ commitment to working collaboratively with the school’s Principal and staff in promoting community involvement.

PFFWA President Joe Monterosso said the P&F was nominated for the award for members’ outstanding efforts to participate in the consultation and planning of a nature playground as well as promote speakers for the school community.

Representatives from the school attended the PFFWA Conference and gladly accepted the award.

More than 100 parents and Catholic school representatives attended the conference to discuss and learn about coming education changes and challenges. Hosted at Sacred Heart College, in Sorrento, attendees travelled from as far as Broome, Port Hedland, Carnarvon, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Bunbury, Esperance and Albany to participate in the event.

PFFWA Conference guest speakers, School Curriculum and Standards Authority CEO Allan Blagaich addressed changes to the WA Certificate of Education from 2015 onwards and Minister for Education, the Hon Peter Collier MLC spoke about the future of education in WA.

My Kitchen Rules 2011 contestants Daniela and Stefania entertained and educated attendees about healthy ideas for children’s lunchboxes and after school snacks.

Plus there was an interesting and informative Open Forum and Panel Discussion about young people and alcohol. Panel experts included WA secondary supply law campaigner Sam Menezes, School Drug Education and Road Aware (SDERA) Manager Bruno Faletti, Hope Community Services Service Delivery Manager Lee Lombardi, Life Coach and Adolescent Specialist Susan Macintosh. Focus 4 Success co-Director Claire Orange facilitated the session.

PFFWA President Joe Monterosso said the conference was a great way to celebrate the Federation’s 60th Anniversary as well as the parents and communities that support WA Catholic schools,.

“The Annual Conference acknowledged and celebrated 60 years of Service and Influence within the WA school community,” Mr Monterosso stated.

“As always attendees gained insightful information from our speakers to take and share with school and P&F members.”