Support Unit K-6
Support classes K-6 are a district resource and part of the educational provision by the Department of Education and Training, New South Wales for children with intellectual disabilities. Children are entitled to enrol in these support classes if they are assessed as having a moderate or severe intellectual disability. Children who do not meet these criteria may be enrolled under special consideration.
The support classes provide an educational environment that
meets the various and multiple needs of children with moderate
and severe intellectual disabilities.
Classes are small with a maximum number of ten students.
Each class is staffed by a teacher and a full time teacher aide.
The teachers in the support classes at Southern Cross School K-12
have qualifications in primary teaching, and advanced qualifications
in a variety of special education disciplines.
Additional support is provided by itinerant teachers,
for example behaviour, vision and hearing.
Therapy support is provided by outside agencies.
When children enrol in the support classes the transition process
is assisted by a learning support team that includes, for example,
parents/ carers, preschool or staff from previous placements,
school counsellor and therapists.
This team are able to work together to construct a picture of the
child's present level of function and draw up a program to support
the child's needs in all areas of development, academic, social,
communication, and to support the management of challenging behaviour.
Children are based in class groups according to age.
This enables the maximum amount of inclusion in mainstream activities,
for example craft, music, library, assemblies, sport and excursions.
At all times and in all places children with intellectual disabilities
are supported to feel confident and positive about inclusive activities.
At the same time, staff from the support classes are able to work together
with mainstream colleagues to ensure that all students develop positive
understandings about children with disabilities.
The curriculum in the support classes is flexible to meet the varied
individual needs of the students.
Students are supported to develop skills in all areas, reading, writing,
communication, living skills, activities in the community.
The development of a positive self image is a major focus at all times.
A variety of communication methods are used including Signed English,
Picture Communication System, visual communication.
The development of communication and the enhancement of learning
outcomes is supported by a variety of assistive technology.
In the Support Classes children with intellectual disabilities are able to enjoy a safe, positive environment where they can make friends with children who share their interests. They benefit from small groups where intensive teaching and learning is delivered by experienced and well qualified staff. At the same time, in the primary school, the children can be supported to experience the mainstream events of Southern Cross School K-12. This is an ideal situation to develop an inclusive school environment.
2-40 Chickiba Drive
East Ballina
N.S.W. Australia, 2478
Phone: 02 6686 0503
Fax: 02 6686 0508
Southern Cross School K - 12 "Towards Tomorrow"
