St Michael’s Baulkham Hills OSHC transitions to new management structure under CDPSL

The management of outside school hours care (OSHC) and vacation care programs at St Michael’s Primary Baulkham Hills, New South Wales, will now be undertaken by the Catholic Diocese of Parramatta Services Limited (CDPSL) as the service transitions from being managed by a parent committee. 

 

OSHC services at the school began in 1994 when there was a demand for the service, and the idea of an onsite OSHC offering was raised at a parish renewal session.

 

A group of mothers, teachers and others who could help put together the plans for the centre, which was the first one of its type established in the Diocese of Parramatta.

 

However over the years, school principal Danuta Maka said, managing children has become “so much more complicated.’

 

By joining the CDPSL, OSHC staff will gain access to professional development and networking of the other centres in the Diocese.”

 

Current President of the Parent’s Committee, Jolene McFarland, is very happy that the centre will continue to be run for the benefit of children, rather than having commercial profit as the main aim.

 

A blessing was held by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv and attended by Father Chinonye Akamadu, Assistant Priest at the Parish of Baulkham Hills, representing Father Wim Hoekstra, and was attended by members of the parish, centre staff, special guests and the children of the OSHC service.

 

“I’m in awe of the things that have been accomplished here,” said Bishop Vincent, referring to the centre’s simple beginnings which have now grown into an established and successful venture. 

 

“We, (the Diocese), will continue to support the families which send their children to use this service.” he said. 

 

Mr Anthony Goonan, Chief Executive Officer of CDPSL, acknowledged all that had contributed to the wonderful service to the families and children, saying that “the centre was built on the shoulders of giants.”

 

To access the original coverage of this story, as produced by Catholic Outlook, please see here.