Victorian schools will receive extra resources to strengthen inclusive education for every student, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Education James Merlino today announced government schools across the state will share in the Labor Government’s $12 million Equipment Boost for Schools.
Schools will receive an additional $5,000 to invest in specialised equipment and assistive technology that supports students with disabilities and additional learning needs to fully participate in school life.
Schools identifying a higher level of need also have the opportunity to apply for additional targeted funds to access high-value or highly specialised equipment and technology that will have a profound impact on students’ participation, learning and success at school.
Funding will also expand the range of technology available for students who are blind or partially sighted through the existing blind and low vision technology library, run through the Statewide Vision Resource Centre.
The Equipment Boost for Schools is part of the $61 million suite of inclusive education initiatives announced by the Labor Government last year, giving schools extra resources, guidance, access to specialist expertise and support to embed inclusive education in all aspects of school life.
As part of the overall inclusive education agenda, the Government has also funded 360 scholarships for Victorian teachers to undertake a Master of Education specialising in inclusive and special education or applied behaviour analysis, as well as an Inclusion Boost for schools to strengthen their inclusive education policies and practices.
Through better supporting the individualised needs of students, and strengthening whole-of-school inclusive education practice, schools can best meet the diverse needs of all students.
Strengthening inclusive education for all students, including those with disabilities and additional learning needs, is a key Education State priority.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino
“Inclusive education means that every child, no matter their background or circumstance, are valued and supported to fully participate, learn, develop and succeed.”
“The new equipment will have a positive impact on students with disabilities and additional learning needs by providing them with the tools and technologies they need to fully participate in learning and school life.”
“It’s vital that our schools inspire a lifelong passion for learning and it’s essential disability isn’t a barrier to that.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020