MAKING CLASSROOMS MORE INCLUSIVE FOR ALL STUDENTS

The Andrews Labor Government is helping Victorian classrooms become more inclusive places for children of all abilities to learn, thrive and succeed.

Parliamentary Secretary for Schools, Tim Richardson MP, today joined the Member for Dandenong, Hon. Gabrielle Williams MP, on a visit to Dandenong South Primary School to launch the statewide roll-out of the Inclusive Classrooms professional learning program.

The Andrews Labor Government has invested $2 million to develop a fit-for-purpose professional learning program for Victorian teachers to help them use inclusive practices in the classroom.

Dandenong South Primary School was among several schools to recently take part in the pilot program.

More than 150 Victorian teachers participated in courses to build their ability to support students with autism, learning difficulties, oral language concerns, hearing loss and vision impairment.

The eight-week courses include online learning, face-to-face and virtual conferencing sessions supported by a facilitator.

Experts from organisations including Autism Spectrum Australia, Speech Pathology Australia, La Trobe University and The University of Melbourne contributed content for the program.

The Inclusive Classrooms professional learning program will now be rolled out across the state, with teachers able to register their interest  in the courses by visiting the Inclusive Classrooms website: via www.deafeducation.vic.edu.au/professional-learning/inclusive-classrooms

Strengthening inclusive education for all students, including those with disabilities and additional learning needs, is a key Education State priority.