Inclusive Education Plan

 

“When we design learning environments proactively for variability, we anticipate and value the incredible strengths and diversity of all our learners.” 

 

1. Vision Statement:

Te Paina School is committed to creating a learning environment where all aakonga, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or cultural identities, feel valued, supported, and have equal opportunities to reach their full potential.

2. Guiding Principles:

• Individualised Education: Tailored learning experiences to meet diverse needs.
• Collaboration: Partnerships between kaiako, aakonga, whaanau, and support staff.
• Accessibility: Physical and curricular adaptations for all learners.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Celebration of differences and promotion of belonging.
• Evidence-Based Practice: Informed decision-making through data analysis and research.

3. Student Identification and Assessment:

• Proactive identification of aakonga who may require additional support.
• Comprehensive assessments, including universal screening, targeted assessments, and individualised evaluations.
• Multidisciplinary team approach involving kaiako, specialists, and whaanau.

4. Individualised Education Plans (IEPs):

• Development of IEPs for students requiring specialised support.
• Collaborative development with kaiako, whaanau, and relevant professionals.
• Clear goals, strategies, and accommodations aligned with individual needs.
• Regular review and updates to reflect progress and changing needs.

5. Differentiated Instruction:

• Flexible teaching approaches to address diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Varied activities, resources, and assessments.
• Opportunities for choice and independent learning.
• Scaffolding and support for aakonga requiring additional assistance.

6. Universal Design for Learning (UDL):

• Curriculum and instructional design that considers diverse learners from the outset.
• Multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement.
• Flexible learning pathways and options to ensure our aakonga are achieving success. 

7. Supportive Learning Environment:

• Inclusive classroom culture that promotes respect, empathy, and belonging.
• Positive behaviour management strategies that address individual needs.
• Physical environment that is accessible and conducive to learning for all aakonga.
• Collaborative and supportive relationships among aakonga, kaiako, and kaimahi (staff).

8. Professional Development:

• Ongoing professional development for kaiako on inclusive education practices, UDL, and differentiated instruction.
• Opportunities for collaboration and learning from experts in the field.
• Focus on culturally responsive teaching and addressing bias.

9. Family Engagement:

• Strong partnerships between kura and whaanau.
• Open communication and regular updates on student progress.
• Opportunities for whaanau involvement in school activities and decision-making.
• Support for whaanau of aakonga with special needs.

10. Evaluation and Monitoring:

• Regular monitoring and evaluation of the inclusive education plan.
• Data collection and analysis to inform decision-making.
• Feedback from aakonga, kaiako, whaanau, and support staff.
• Continuous improvement and adaptation based on evaluation findings.

11. Resources and Support:

• Adequate funding and resources to support inclusive education initiatives.
• Access to specialised support services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling where possible.
• Collaboration with external agencies and community partners.

How this plan aligns with ‘Our Code Our Standards’ for all Kaiako in Aotearoa New Zealand.