The learning needs of students varies and to meet these needs a range of DECS services are available. To determine the eligibility of students to access these services, the school, in consultation with the parent, can submit a referral for the student to be assessed.
- Negotiated Education Plan (NEP)
Students identified with a disability which impacts significantly on their learning / attendance at school may be verified by DECS Support Personnel and are required to have a Negotiated Education Plan (NEP). This plan addresses their individual needs and requirements. Generally these students participate in mainstream classes, with varying levels of support.
- Interagency Student Behaviour Management (ISBM)
The Interagency Student Behaviour management team provides support for behaviour issues.
- Hearing / Visual
Students with a diagnosed hearing impairment can access services from a hearing impairment teacher who will work with the class teacher and advise appropriate management strategies.
Townsend House in Adelaide provides services for students with visual impairment.
- Other Services
Services provided by DECS include:
- Guidance Officer (Educational Psychology)
The Guidance Officer can provide information about the student's academic and intellectual ability, behavioural management strategies, counselling and social / emotional issues.
- Speech Pathology
DECS Speech Pathologists can assess the students' oral language and/or speech skills, which are crucial to the students' literacy development. The speech pathologist will work with the class teacher, SSO's and parents/caregivers to provide a program that can be incorporated into classroom practice.
- Disabilities Co-ordinator
The Disabilities Co-ordinator assists in co-ordinating the NEP and ensures that the appropriate services are involved.