SIX Wimmera schools are participating in a pilot program that targets the learning needs of students with disabilities.
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Stawell West Primary School, St Arnaud Secondary College, Ararat Secondary College, Warracknabeal Special Development School, Murtoa College and Minyip Primary School are taking part in the program.
More than 100 schools throughout the state are involved in the new six-month pilot program.
The program plans to concentrate on the student’s educational needs rather than their medical diagnosis.
The student’s strengths and functional needs will focused on in order to identify any adjustments or support systems required at a school level.
Murtoa College’s student management and well-being teacher Ryan Metelmann said the school believed that the program would be a rewarding opportunity to improve the learning experience for its students.
Mr Metelmann said the college previously had low number of students with disabilities or additional needs enrolled. However, he said there has been a rise to between 10 and 13 students.
He said it was equally important to help students with disabilities.
“This opportunity will help us tailor our program to best suit our students needs,” he said. “Through the program teachers will engage with a department representative who will help us enhance the student’s learning experience.”
Ararat Secondary College teacher Lenny Sky said the college was focused on providing the best possible support for its students.
“Like most schools we have a range of students with a variety of extra needs,” she said. “It’s about making sure we are providing our students with the best possible support while they are here.”
Member for western Victoria Jaala Pulford said she was pleased that a number of school are participating from the region.
“It’s vital that our schools inspire a lifelong passion for learning and having a disability and living in a country area shouldn’t be a barrier to that,” she said.