Programs available within the Special Education Faculty
Students requiring assistance with their learning are catered for by the Support Teacher Learning Assistance (STLA) who support students in Years 8 to 10 (sometimes seniors) via withdrawal for two periods a cycle. Class teachers nominate students who would benefit from this support. A home program can also be organised depending on student need. Students are also assisted to complete assignments and homework. The STLA tends to focus her support in the areas of literacy and numeracy.
The STLA runs a peer tutoring program during RATS for students in Years 7 & 8.
In Year 7, nominated students are supported through their participation in a modified Language program. This program focuses on the development of literacy skills through the study of the cultures of other countries.
Behaviour Tutorial Program
Students who have been found to have a behaviour concern can access the Tutorial Program. Students are provided with a specialised program which focuses on social skill development for a semester and are transitioned back into mainstream classes during this time.
Students with Mild Intellectual Learning Disabilities
Students who have been tested by the school counsellor and have been found to have a mild intellectual learning disability have the option to join the S3 Class for Year 7 to 12 students. This class assists students in a small group for English, Maths and HSIE subjects. Students complete a mainstream curriculum which has been modified to suit their needs. Students are able to integrate into a mainstream class in their respective year group for Science, PDHPE, Visual Arts and Music and Design and Technology subject areas. Again, the mainstream curriculum will be modified to suit their needs.
Students with Moderate and Severe Intellectual Learning Disabilities
Students who have been tested by the school counsellor and have been found to have a moderate or severe intellectual disability are catered for by the Special Education staff in S Block. Students are supported in a class situation in S Block and may access mainstream classes depending on each student's Individual Education or Transition Program. The majority of students follow a Life Skills curriculum for all or most of their subjects.
Multi-Categorical Special Education Class
In 2011 a Multi-Categorical Class was established. This class caters for a small group of students who have a variety of special needs which have been identified by a School Counsellor or a Paediatrician. These special needs may include students with moderate intellectual disabilities, mental health disabilities or autism spectrum disorders. The learning needs of each individual student is identified in their Individual Education or Transition Program.
Emotional Disorder Special Education Class
Mid 2011 a class for Emotionally Disordered students was established. This class caters for a small group of students who have mental health problems which have been identified by a School Counsellor and confirmed by a Paediatrician. The learning needs for each individual student is identified in their Individual Education or Transition Program.
Itinerant Support Teachers (Hearing) – (ISTH)
Students with an identified hearing loss are supported by the ISTH. These teachers help students develop their speech, auditory and language skills in order that they can reach their full potential and cope in mainstream classes. Part of the role of the ISTH is to liaise closely with mainstream classroom teachers and the students' families.
Itinerant Support Teachers (Vision) – (ISTV)
Students from birth to Year 12 who meet the criteria for low vision or blindness are supported in all settings to access the curriculum and achieve their potential in the community. Teachers, families and carers are also supported.
Websites that may be useful.
www.visionaustralia.org.au www.guidedogs.com.au