Learning support
We ensure every student is ready to learn. At Waratah, our staff work together with our Learning and Support team to ensure that students have the appropriate support in each class.
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
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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 child may need extra help,
Special Education
Our Special Education team helps students with moderate to high learning and support needs in a nurturing and inclusive environment. Each of our eight classrooms has a teacher and helpers who work together to make sure every student gets the help they need.
Our classrooms have flexible seating and quiet, calm spaces where students can feel comfortable and safe while learning. We also use special technologies to help students learn in the best way for them.
Support for English language learners
Our EAL/D team includes specialist teachers who help students from many different language and cultural backgrounds. In our Intensive English Classes (IEC), trained staff work with newly arrived students who need extra help learning English. These classes focus on building skills in speaking, writing, and reading in English.
For students who already have some English skills, our EAL/D teachers support them in learning the academic language they need to succeed in high school subjects.
Have a question about learning support?
We’re here to talk through your options. Contact us to speak with our learning and support team.