Frequently Asked Questions

As a College, we gather information about our students from a variety of sources including report cards, meetings with parents and staff and discussions with the students. This information is reviewed and then support strategies are developed. Throughout this process, we may conduct diagnostic testing of individuals or groups to assess specific skills (e.g. literacy, numeracy) or conduct general diagnostic interviews to determine the nature of problems at school. If necessary, and in consultation with parents, we may refer a student to our College's Student Support Officers or an outside agency or specialist for further evaluation and testing.

Our Curriculum Support Team will work with teachers to modify existing resources, assignments and/or tests to meet the educational level of our students with learning difficulties. We also help with ongoing lesson/unit planning to help our teachers cater for the learning needs of all students in their classrooms.

Our Curriculum Support Team will research and help to develop new materials to support students with learning difficulties.

Some students with specific difficulties may require examination and assignment support to help them succeed. These students attend the College's Curriculum Support Centre and work closely with our support staff to develop their assignment and research skills. Examination support may also be provided and our teacher assistants can help our students understand the examination questions and we may scribe answers if necessary.

Our Teacher Assistants work with our teachers to support our verified students and those with learning difficulties in may of their classes.

We understand that the transition to high school can be extremely difficult for some and our Curriculum Support Team are closely involved in the transition of Year 6 students into the College for this reason. We work proactively to ensure all incoming students have any special needs identified and addressed so they can feel supported.

Students with high-level physical, cognitive or emotional issues affecting their learning are generally identified at a primary school level and 'verified' according to the Educational Adjustment Program (EAP) process. However, some students can be identified at a secondary level. These students receive additional funding and support, including an Individual Education Plan (IEP). This plan identifies learning/behavioural goals for that student. Our Curriculum Support Staff act as Case Managers for verified students and meet with their parents, teachers and teacher assistants to review students' progress towards IEP goals.