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Diverse Learning Needs

At St Michael's, we value knowing each of our students in order to meet their needs holistically and support them in reaching their full potential. We aim to cater for all students’ strengths and interests, and bring out the best in each individual. This is done in many areas and with a variety of learning experiences.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

We aim to cater for all students’ strengths and interests and bring out the best in them. This is done in all areas and with a variety of learning experiences. From time to time, students present with diverse needs and the teacher provides comprehensive support within the classroom, and where needed may seek further support from the school, Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong, and outside agencies.

Adjustments may be made to learning and teaching experiences for students to better access the curriculum at their level. Recommendations may be made by the teacher or the leadership team for a student to be monitored by the school MSPEC team. The team will develop with the teacher suggested strategies, intervention plans and learning goals.

Other suggestions may include the referral of a student to a paediatrician, speech pathologist, occupational therapist, audiologist, optometrist, psychologist or counsellor. As a result of this testing additional funding may be made available to support the needs of the child. This special education funding is to support teachers in catering for the needs of the student.

All funded students have an Individual Plan (IP) developed collaboratively with parents and regular meetings are held with parents to discuss progress and concerns.
  

GIFTED EDUCATION

Gifted Education is a shared responsibility between the school and home. The school follows Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) policy in supporting procedures.

At St Michael’s, teachers may devise specific Individual Plans (IPs) for students who have been formally assessed as Gifted.

This may include:

  • Differentiation within the classroom
  • Opportunities for growth outside the classroom
  • A variety of grouping strategies
      

ENRICHMENT

At St Michael's, we aim to cater for all students’ strengths and interests and bring out the best in each individual. This is done in all areas and with a variety of learning experiences. We try to empower students to be leaders in areas that they have a skill, passion or interest in.

Individual enrichment activities at St Michael’s are provided dependent on the area of giftedness – physical, intellectual, social or creative. Examples include SPLICED learning experiences, representative sporting teams, art competitions and public speaking.
  

For more information, view the CEDoW Diverse Learning Needs Policy