Additional learning support
At West Wallsend High 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 young person to receive support in a mainstream class. Support can begin at any stage of school.
Support that fits your young person'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 young person's needs.
Additional learning support can include:
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teachers and support staff working together with families (and students, if needed)
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specialist support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)
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providing tailored programs to help high potential and gifted students with their advanced learning needs
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small group tutoring to provide targeted literacy and numeracy support for students
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regular check-ins to review and update the planned supports
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changes to the classrooms:
- accessible classrooms
- assistive technology
- instructional resources
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extra guidance, simpler content or different focus during lessons
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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 young person may need extra help, contact us.
Learning and support team
Our learning and support team helps make sure every student gets the help they need at the right time. The team works with families, teachers and support staff to:
- understand each student’s needs
- plan adjustments and supports
- monitor progress
- connect with other services if needed.
Our learning and support team may include:
- learning and support teachers
- school learning support officers
- school counsellors
- school psychologists
- 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.
Contact us to meet with a member of this team to talk about your young person's strengths, interests and areas where they may need support.
How are students placed in Kapara?
Placement in support classes in mainstream schools are made through the Access Request process and places are offered after regional panels review applications and make a determination.
Access Requests are arranged by the school learning support team at local public schools.
How are students placed in Birabahn?
Birabahn offers places primarily to students from Years 7-10 and can accommodate senior students on a case-by-case basis.
Students are placed in Birabahn through the Access Request process – this application is completed by a student’s local “home” school.
Placements are determined by regional panels which meet twice a term. If students are successful in their placement they remain enrolled in their home school and attend Birabahn as a shared enrolment with West Wallsend High School for the duration of the program.
Have a question about learning support?
We’re here to talk through your options. Contact us to speak with the principal or learning and support team.