Inclusive learning support

NSW public schools are well prepared to support students with disability and additional learning and support needs and staff are ready to answer your questions.

Visit inclusive learning support  hub for more infomation on;

Physical support unit

Earlwood Public School's Physical Support Unit was established in 1994, specifically designed for students with physical disabilities. The unit includes modified furniture, adaptive technologies, bathroom and toileting facilities. A specialised support teacher, together with a School Learning and Support Officer (SLSO), work together with students to personalise their learning experiences and meet their individual needs.

Students enroled in the unit are integrated into mainstream classes according to their individual needs and abilities. This integration ranges from full-time participation to part-time involvement, depending on each student’s requirements.

Whenever possible, students are included in classrooms across all Key Learning Areas, with support from specialists and School Learning Support Officers. Educational programs are customised to help students reach their full potential and prepare them for further education, employment, and active involvement in the community.

Students experiencing difficulties in learning in regular classes, regardless of the cause, are supported through learning and support to meet their individual needs.

Boccia

The Boccia School Sport Unit Competition is a fun and inclusive event where students from the support unit come together to play Boccia, a precision ball sport designed for all abilities. It encourages teamwork, skill development, and friendly competition, promoting confidence and participation for every student.

'I love Boccia because I can use the ramp to get my ball closer to the jack. I’m so excited for my family to come and watch me at the NSW state finals!' - Therese, support unit student.
'At school, we practice every week. The Department of Education’s School Sport Unit holds a tournament every year. It’s exciting to know that Boccia is a paralympic sport.' - Ammar, support unit student.

Inclusive learning support

Find out about our approach to learning and supporting students with personalised learning and development.

Assisted School Travel Program

Learn about the Department of Education Assisted School Travel Program.

Vision support centre

Earlwood Vision support centre and team has been based within Earlwood Public School since 1995. We currently service 18 schools within the Sydney Central Region providing specialised vision support to over 40 students. Itinerant Support Teachers - Vision (ISTVs) provide essential assistance both to students with vision impairment, and classroom teachers. They provide specialist knowledge and advice to schools regarding curriculum access for students who are blind or have low vision. This involves:

  • Assessment: evaluating the most appropriate learning media for the student i.e. braille, large print, audio, or electronic access to the curriculum or a combination of these.
  • Direct teaching: relevant areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) e.g. braille.
  • Program planning: assisting the school to develop individual programs for students e.g. a program to teach braille or assistive technology skills.
  • Access technology and equipment: provide information about, and apply for, technology to improve student access to the curriculum.
  • Disability awareness: provide information about the student's vision impairment to teachers, class members and the wider school community.
  • Consultancy to support groups: such as NESA Disability Provisions, Vision Australia, Guide Dogs Australia and other allied health services.