A centralised Repairs and Maintenance Program was implemented to remove this burden from centres . This will ensure that all KU centres continue to meet licensing and OH & S requirements and are quality learning environments for children .
The year saw a strong focus on procurement processes , delivering more environmentally and cost effective ways of assessing and purchasing goods and services .
Finance Throughout |
2008 |
a |
number |
of |
initiatives |
were |
implemented |
which |
were |
designed |
to |
improve |
the timeliness of financial reporting , reduce the |
administrative burdon on centres and improve the |
efficiency of our financial systems . |
This included the appointment of a Management |
Accountant to improve financial analysis and both |
internal and external reporting functions . |
Marketing & Communications
The year saw an extensive review and consultation process surrounding KU ’ s branding , resulting in the development and launch of the new visual identity and logo in September . The new brand was inspired by some of the key strengths of our organisation ; our heritage and not for profit status , the play-based learning philosophy and the commitment to natural , sustainable learning environments demonstrated in KU centres .
Over the year , intensive marketing support was provided to a total 27 centres identified as having particularly low utilisation . Increased utilisation rates were achieved and maintained in 23 of those centres .
An increased focus on developing relationships with the media saw KU firmly cemented as a trusted adviser to the community and media on early childhood education and care topics . Throughout 2008 KU was heavily represented across more than 50 print , radio , television and online news outlets , on a range of issues .
Making The KU Difference Awards
Created to recognise KU staff whose truly inspirational efforts are helping to make the KU Difference within the many different areas of our work . The inaugural presentation of the KU Awards took place at the KU Annual Seminar . Congratulations to the very worthy 2008 recipients of these awards .
• Terri Heinrich Making the KU Difference for Children
• KU James Cahill staff and Carol Findlay Making the KU Difference for Families
• Marianna Georgiadis Making the KU Difference for Communities
• Sabira Sukurma Making the KU Difference for Staff
• Anthony van Stratum and Arda Cholakyan Making the KU Difference to Quality
• Annette Lee Making the KU Difference to Affordability
• Bronwyn Gibbs Making the KU Difference through Innovation
• Allana Birks Making the KU Difference through Representation
• Amanda Kupke The KU Marcia Burgess Award
The perpetual KU Marcia Burgess Award recognises outstanding commitment to working with children with additional needs and their families .
113th Annual Report 2008 11