NEWS
$12.7 million in funding over four years!
Correspondence to School Representative Bodies from Minister for Education, Lauren Moss regarding a funding announcement for Students with Additional Needs (SWAN) - PDF
All children are entitled to be included and to participate in a high quality education. An inclusive education means that all students are welcomed regardless of gender, ethnicity, socio-economic background or educational need. They learn, contribute to, and take part in all aspects of school life.
The NT reports the highest proportion nationally of students with additional needs, with 27% of students receiving education adjustments. However, only 22% of all children receiving education adjustments have a formal diagnosis.
NT COGSO has a detailed understanding of the barriers NT families face when attempting to obtain a diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic supports for their children.
Barriers to obtaining a diagnosis can include:
- low levels of health/disability literacy
- high levels of socio-economic disadvantage
- fragmented pathways between health and education
- lack of affordable private pathways
- long waiting lists
These barriers are compounded by an overrepresentation of complex family issues, chronic disease and psychological distress, particularly among ATSI populations and further exacerbated in remote locations.
As parents and carers, navigating through the health and education system to determine what assistance is possible can be challenging. The resources provided in this section may make the process easier for your family.