Learning Support 7-10

There is much debate about the best models for inclusion across school environments. A reality faced by all students in all schools, is that there are times and occasions as we grow, when we all have diverse needs.

This year Learning Support has been very fortunate to have Ms Kiera Farr join the Learning Support team. The energy and passion Ms Farr brings has been such an asset for student development, and the students find themselves responding to her qualities with their intervention successes.

Testing, or at least the mention of the word, can make some students anxious. Each year students are able to sit their NAPLAN tests in a support room, as a smaller group of peers, and take advantage of environments that have less anxiety associated with testing. Knowing there are accommodations in place often assists students in managing their anxiety. Some students found that after the initial NAPLAN testing, their responses evolved and they were able to experience the testing under the more standardised conditions without adverse anxiety experienced.

As students progress through 7-10 and have the learning experiences of subject-based tests, mid-year and end-of-year exams, conditioning their emotional responses and taking ownership of their learning are phenomenal steps. This displays that even when relatively challenged, when facing moments of diverse needs, our students are responsible learners.

This year we are fortunate to have a number of students sharing aspects of their cultures with us. Students who speak languages other than English face incredible challenges especially when accessing academic curriculum. Students managing these hurdles often are faced with isolation, which in turns inhibits the social and cultural avenues into learning functional English.

Students in 7-10 who bring this rich diversity to our own experiences are supported in their cultural and linguistic development with sessions throughout the week.

The diversity of subjects offered at Dominic College continues to be a wonderful asset for students with diverse needs. They allow them opportunities to explore possibilities beyond Year 10, in either subject selection for GYC or for work placement opportunities. The recent work experience undertaken by Year 10 students proved beneficial and worthwhile in establishing community networks and meeting new people, while challenging students to step outside their comfort zone.

Mrs Jessica Agius - 7-10 Learning Support Teacher