At Mater Dei College, Learning Support is in place to support the College’s inclusive education philosophy.

Learning Support staff offers support to students with diverse learning needs and those with learning needs that vary from those of their peers. Students with a formal diagnosis of conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), hearing impairments, specific learning difficulties – reading and written expression, chronic fatigue or other medical needs.

Learning Support staff assist students within the mainstream classroom and in smaller group tutoring scenarios to create an educational experience that allows students to achieve personal excellence. Students have access to technology, such as C-Pens, to assist with learning and have the opportunity to sit assessments in supported small group environments. Where deemed necessary, students also participate in literacy and numeracy intervention programs such as QuickSmart.

Learning Support staff work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant professionals to individualise or modify learning to meet student needs. Students whose needs place them under the umbrella of Learning Support have an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The plan is created collaboratively with the student and their family in mind. It provides staff with a holistic student profile, diagnosis, individual needs, strengths and interests of the student.

Staff advocate for the diverse learners in the College community, modelling and encouraging the acceptance of different learning styles and needs. They actively encourage students to own and celebrate their unique gifts and strive for their level of personal excellence.

Learning Support staff work closely with teaching staff and the Wellbeing Service to ensure the student’s academic and mental health needs are supported holistically and collaboratively.