Support unit

The Support Faculty is underpinned by the principle of inclusive practice, which emphasises the rights of all students to access education in an environment that is supportive, engaging, and reflective of their individual needs. The educational programs are relevant to students' abilities and are age-appropriate, aiming to encourage maximum student participation through modified teaching strategies and materials.

The teaching programs prepare students for their present and future environments, including employment, independent living, and active participation in the community.

There are five Support classes as follows:

We try to keep classes as consistent as possible, however, the class makeup of year groups can change depending on student numbers each year and the needs of the students. (Set up in 2025)

SRBlue (Combination of Autism/Mild Intellectual Disability - Stage 4 - Years 7-8)

The focus is on literacy and numeracy and individual students can be integrated into mainstream subjects where strengths or interests lie with the approval of the principal. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, HSIE, LOTE, Visual Arts, Food Technology, Music, TAS and Grade Sport. Students also participate in Community Excursions once a fortnight on a Friday to develop their travel training skills and applying their money skills to real life situations. (All students access a life skills curriculum).

SRRed (Combination of Autism/Mild Intellectual Disability – Stage 5 - Years 9-10)

The focus is on literacy and numeracy and individual students can be integrated into mainstream subjects where strengths or interests lie with the approval of the principal. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, HSIE, Visual Arts, Food Technology, TAS and Grade Sport. Students also participate in Community Excursions once a fortnight on a Friday to develop their travel training skills and applying their money skills to real life situations. (All students access a life skills curriculum).

SROrange (Combination of Autism/Mild Intellectual Disability – Stage 5/6 - Years 10 - 12)

The programs prepare students for the HSC and post school option (Transition to work, Community Participation and/or Open employment). It includes work experience and possible access to TAFE course (although not guaranteed) in their senior years. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, HSIE, PDHPE, Creative Arts, Food Technology, Work and Community & TAFE options (All students access a life skills curriculum).

SRGreen (Moderate Intellectual disability Stage 4 - Years 7 – 9)

The programs are functional and relevant to students' needs and abilities. Focus on literacy and numeracy, IEP goals and the ability to access the community as independently as possible. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, HSIE, LOTE, Visual Arts, Food Technology, Music, TAS & Community Participation – excursions are Friday Week A. (All students access a life skills curriculum).

SRYellow (Moderate Intellectual disability Stage 5/6 - Years 9-10)

The programs prepare students for the HSC and post school options (Transition to work, Community Participation and/or Open employment). It includes 1 day of work experience a week, a Community Access Day once a fortnight and a possibility (although not guaranteed) to access TAFE courses in the senior years. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, HSIE, Creative Arts, Food Technology, Work and Community & TAFE options (All students access a life skills curriculum).

Other school opportunities:

• CAPA Showcase
• Direct link with outside school agencies and programs for students with disabilities
• Drama, Chess, and Art Club (During or after school programs – if running)
• Excursions
• Girls Club – Wednesday at the MYRC
• Grade Sport
• Homework Centre
• Marrickville’s Got Talent (Student entries)
• Rock Band and Choir (Students try out for this).
• School carnivals (swimming, athletics, and cross country – possibility of regional & state competitions)
• Sporting teams
• Support Unit Camp /Grade Camp

Sensory Room

This is a valuable resource in our school.

Students are able to acquire a sensory diet and exercise regime through our trained Occupational Therapist at a reasonable fee. This then allows our students to access the equipment in times of need.

If you require any further information please call or email Erica Edgley (Head Teacher Special Education/Inclusion) or phone on 9569 2444 or erica.prendergast@det.nsw.edu.au

Work education and Tafe

Stage 5 and 6 Work Education - group 1

• Available for students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 Senior
• Provides them with a range of real life experiences and develops skills which are needed in the workplace
• Provides an opportunity for students to socialise in a setting outside of school.
• Based on a one day release program (once a week).

IO Senior Class Work Education/ Community Access

• Available for students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12.
• Provides them with a real life work environment which assists the students in developing basic skills that are needed in the workplace.
• Provides an opportunity for students to socialise in a setting outside of school.
• Runs one day a week at a nominated Supported Worksite.
• Currently alternates in sites due to availability.

Year 11 and 12 TAFE Options

• A variety of TAFE courses are available for students in years 11 and 12 (e.g. Retail, Baking).
• All courses available provide support and are leveled at students' abilities.
• So far the students who have participated have generally been successful.

Students enjoy on the job training whilst also gaining valuable work and social skills when they participate in our community Work Education programs.

Useful websites

The School Student Transport Scheme

The School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) provides subsidised travel for eligible school students on rail, bus, ferry and long distance coach services. A subsidy is also available for transport to and from school in private vehicles in areas where there is no public transport.

Assisted School Travel Program

Students with a disability who are unable to travel to and from school under the School Student Transport Scheme may be eligible for access to assistance under the Department of Education and Communities.

National Disability Insurance Scheme - NDIS

Centrelink - Department of Human Services

Raising Children Network