It is often more difficult for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to find a school they enjoy, where they have friends and are academically challenged with the right supports.
Research shows that one of the best ways to foster every aspect of your child’s learning and development is to enrol them in an inclusive school environment where they can learn with and alongside other students both with and without disability. Some families may feel their child is best supported in a segregated setting. DDWA recognises that there are still mainstream schools in Western Australia where there is not yet enough knowledge or experience in accommodating the needs of students with disability. We're here to support your choice.
The information below is designed to help people understand what education options are available to them and how to get support should there be difficulties.
Resources
DDWA Services
You can contact one of our team to assist with matters of concern that you have with your child's experience in the WA education system. Currently DDWA are not funded for individual advocacy services. However, please call us on (08) 9420-7203 for support and practical information on how you can self-advocate for your child. DDWA supports you to advocate for your rights to seek and maintain education options that best suit your child's needs.
FAQ's
The Parent’s Dozen – supportive wisdom for the school journey
What is the best way to communicate with your school?
What funding support is available at your local school?
What additional support is available at your local school ?
What are Individualised Planning- Curriculum Adjustments ?
Can my local public school say they cannot accommodate my child’s needs and decline enrolment?
Can my child go on the special school bus service?
What are my options if the current school isn’t working out for my child and we have tried everything we can to make it work?
Can I access specialist programs for my child with autism?
How do I choose the right school for my child ?
More Information
PDA strategies to try at school by Heidi Brandis
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile that describes those whose main characteristic is to avoid everyday demands and expectations to an extreme extent (from pdasociety.org.uk)
Heidi Brandis, author of the Autism Parent's Handbook, has developed a one page PDF for Educators about supporting autistic students with a PDA profile. You can download the PDF here.
Australian Alliance for Inclusive Education - All Means All – for Educators
Provides concise information and toolkits about inclusive education and class culture; why include, supporting peer connection, the role of education assistants, and behaviour support.
allmeansall.org.au/for-educators
Disability Standards for Education - Australia
A practical guide for individuals, families and communities -Explains the standards of providing education for students with disabilities and what parents/guardians can expect for supports for their children in school.