What’s in a name? 

Plenty, according to the group that advocates on behalf of the parents of children at Western Australian Catholic schools. 

The Parents and Friends Federation of Western Australia will soon be known as Catholic School Parents Western Australia, CSPWA. 

The change was accepted at a recent special general meeting after extensive consultation with members and across the Catholic education community. 

PFFWA Executive Director Siobhan Allen said the new name would bring about improvements in communication and public perception about the intent and purpose of the organisation.  

“The consensus was that the name needs to include the word ‘Catholic’ as this gives a clear statement about our representation of Catholic school parents in the context of the overall education system,” she said. 

“The work of PFFWA extends far beyond supporting P&Fs and parent groups, it benefits all parents in the Catholic school system whether they realise it or not.  

“The new name will provide a clearer statement about who we are and who we represent to anyone who sees the name.” 

The PFFWA was founded in 1954 when 14 Parents and Friends’ Associations joined together to form a constituted Federation.   

By the end of the year 28 schools were affiliated and this number steadily increased. 

Ms Allen acknowledged the personal connection members of council and staff may have to the name Parents and Friends Federation of WA. 

A ceremony to mark the change will be held on 4 April at the Catholic Education Centre in Leederville. 

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