Disability Inclusion

Inclusion at Sydenham Primary School

At Sydenham Primary School, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student is valued and able to thrive. We believe that all students, regardless of their abilities or needs, deserve the opportunity to participate in school life and achieve success.

What is Disability Inclusion?

Disability Inclusion is a Victorian Department of Education initiative that supports schools to better meet the needs of students with disabilities and additional needs.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Disability Inclusion focuses on understanding each child’s unique strengths, needs and goals, so that we can provide tailored support.

Inclusive education means that all members of our school community are supported to:

• Participate in learning
• Feel safe, respected and valued
• Develop socially, emotionally and academically

How We Support Students

We are committed to creating a positive, safe and engaging learning environment for all students. Our Multi-Tiered Systems of Support framework allows us to provide the right level of support at the right time. At Sydenham Primary School, we use a range of approaches to support students:

Personalised Learning

Our dedicated teachers differentiate learning to meet a wide range of abilities in every classroom.

Adjustments are made to support access, engagement and success.

Inclusive Classrooms in Action

Our classrooms are designed to support all learners to feel safe, calm and ready to learn. On top of personalised learning, you may see:

• Calming corners and quiet spaces where students can regulate their emotions
• Access to sensory resources
• Clear routines and visual supports to help students understand expectations
• Explicit teaching of social and emotional skills

Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

• Developed for students who receive support through PSD or Disability Inclusion
• Outline specific learning goals and teaching strategies
• Created in collaboration with families and the Wellbeing Team

Student Support Group (SSG) Meetings

• Meetings involving parents/carers, teachers and school staff
• Used to review progress, set goals and plan next steps

Wellbeing and Engagement Support

We know that wellbeing is key to learning. Our school provides:

• Targeted intervention and social skills programs to support academics, friendship building and communication
• A consistent whole-school approach to behaviour through SWPBS (School Wide Positive Behaviour Support)
• Opportunities for students to practise emotional regulation and problem-solving skills

Disability Inclusion Profiles

The Disability Inclusion Profile (DIP) is a strengths-based process that helps us understand each child as an individual.

It focuses on your child’s strengths, interests and goals, while also identifying areas where support may be needed. This allows us to plan the right adjustments so your child can feel confident, engaged and successful at school.

The process is completed in partnership with families, teachers and any specialists involved, to build a clear and shared understanding of how best to support your child.

This process supports schools to access appropriate supports and resources to ensure each student can participate in school life.

• Access additional resources and funding where appropriate
• Continue building staff knowledge and inclusive teaching practices
• Strengthen a school culture where diversity is respected and celebrated

Working in Partnership with Families

We value strong partnerships with families and carers. Your knowledge and insights about your child are essential in helping us provide the best possible support.

We encourage open communication and collaboration through:

• Regular SSG meetings
• Ongoing communication and updates
• Support from our Wellbeing Team