The Learning Support Department, known as Te Whare Ako, encourages students to reach their full potential academically and socially, and to gain independence and confidence to enable them to function in the community. A new Learning Centre caters for the needs of the varying degrees of disabilities. This contains specialist equipment and materials to enhance learning programmes.
We support students’ potential by:
- Developing good work habits
- Learning the values of respect, responsibility, achievements and perseverance and courage in overcoming challenges
- Building effective social interaction skills and problem-solving skills to strengthen their self-image
- Providing an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that includes all key competencies: thinking, using language symbols and text, managing self, relating to others, participating and contributing
- Supporting students where there is a need, e.g. providing Learning Assistants in class and for EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom, e.g. camps and field trips)
- Providing Specialist Teachers and other specialists from a variety of agencies
- Adapting class lessons and resources
- Specialist equipment if required
- Additional activities, e.g. Riding for the Disabled (RDA)
- Small group or individual tuition in the Learning Support Centre
- Providing life and social skills programmes, including work experience opportunities within school and in the community
All students can attend classes along with their peer group and be fully involved with all activities within the school. Adaptations to class programmes can be provided. However, if they require specialist individual or small group tuition, then this is provided in the Learning Support Centre.
A transition programme and an IEP can be developed prior to entry if required. Reader / Writers or specialist equipment is also available for students with conditions that require support for assessments. This is available for students in years 7-13. A Reading Programme is available for students who require support in this area. Each student attends on a daily basis. Students are referred by their classroom teacher.
Experienced and Committed Staff
Te Whare Ako has experienced and committed staff who are all sensitive to the individual learning needs and learning styles of identified students.
A register is kept of all identified students in the school who have a learning disability. A team of staff including the Co-HoD of Te Whare Ako, Guidance Counsellor, RTLB (Resource Teacher of Learning and Behaviour) and the Specialist Classroom Teacher meet fortnightly to discuss referrals and how best to meet the student’s needs. Close contact is maintained with parents/caregivers and outside agencies.
Enquiries Welcome
We welcome inquiries, so if you would like further information please contact either Mr Brett Ducher [email protected], Mrs Teena Vincent [email protected] or contact the Principal on +64 03 693 0017.
