Additional learning support

At our school, we ensure every student is ready to learn. We support students with disability and additional learning needs so they can take part in all areas of school life. You do not need a formal diagnosis for your child to receive support in a mainstream class. Support can begin at any stage of school.

Support that fits your child's needs

Some students need extra support to feel confident and do their best at school. We work closely with families to make support plans and adjustments  that suits each child’s needs.

Additional learning support can include:

• teachers and support staff working together with families (and students, if needed)
• specialist support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)

• providing tailored programs to help high potential and gifted students with their advanced learning needs

• small group tutoring to provide targeted literacy and numeracy support for students

• regular check-ins to review and update the planned supports

• changes to the classrooms:

  • accessible classrooms
  • assistive technology
  • instructional resources

• extra guidance, simpler content or different focus during lessons

• assessment adjustments:

  • more time
  • simpler language
  • breaks during tasks
  • different ways to complete a task (e.g. oral presentations instead of written tasks).

We know when a student needs help when:

• teachers notice changes in learning or behaviour
• reviewing assessment results and learning progress
• parents and carers raise concerns or ask for support.

Adjustments are planned with parents and carers. They are reviewed regularly and changed when needed.  If you think your child may need extra help, contact us.

Learning and support team

Learning support procedures at Botany Public School are overseen by the Learning Support Team. Our learning and support team may include:

• learning and support teachers
• school learning support officers
• school counsellors
• student support officers
• itinerant teachers for vision or hearing
• English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D) teachers
• Aboriginal education officers
• community and home school liaison officers.

The Learning Support Team (LST) plays a role in ensuring that all students, particularly those with additional learning needs, receive the support they need to thrive. The main purposes of the team are:

1. Identifying Learning Needs: The team works with classroom teachers and families to identify students who may have learning difficulties, disabilities, or social, emotional, and behavioural challenges that could affect their education.
2. Planning Interventions: Once a student's needs are identified, the LST collaborates with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop personalised support plans. This may include strategies, accommodations, or adjustments in the classroom.
3. Providing Targeted Support: The team organises additional resources, such as specialist teachers, aides, or learning materials, to ensure students receive the necessary support. This may include small group instruction or referral to external health providers.
4. Monitoring Progress: The LST regularly reviews the progress of students receiving support, adjusting plans as needed and ensuring interventions are effective.
5. Collaboration: The team works closely with classroom teachers, parents, and external professionals (e.g., speech therapists, counsellors) to provide a coordinated approach to each student's learning journey.
6. Promoting Inclusion: The LST advocates for inclusive practices, ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate in school life.

Contact us to meet with a member of this team to talk about your child’s strengths, interests and areas where they may need support.

Have a question about learning support?

We’re here to talk through your options. Contact us to meet with a member of this team to talk about your child’s strengths, interests and areas where they may need support.

Contact us