Catholic schools in South Australia are either diocesan or congregational schools. Sometimes these congregational schools are referred to as ‘non-systemic’.
Responsibility for and governance of diocesan schools is through the Catholic Education Office of the local diocese. Responsibility for and governance of congregational schools is through the congregation and its appointed board or council.
All schools, whether diocesan or congregational, have a board, council or governing body. These will have varying degrees of responsibility or authority according to their circumstances and constitutions. Diocesan school boards play an important role in the development of school policy and are responsible for ensuring that the financial affairs of the school are in accordance with SACCS and diocesan policies and guidelines.
We strongly advise all board members to be familiar with their governance structure.