Student diversity Illustrations of practice

The Woden School offers a supported high school and senior secondary school program to eligible students who meet the ACT Disability Criteria, including students with mild to moderate intellectual disability in addition to other medical conditions or sensory, physical or behavioural disabilities. Small class sizes ensure that students receive a high level of individual instruction.

Students commencing in Year 7 are enrolled in adapted and modified courses of study aligned with the Australian Curriculum. Like their mainstream peers, students study learning areas and/or subjects, select electives according to individual preferences, and participate in age-appropriate extra-curricular high school enrichment activities.

Teaching and learning programs are adapted and modified by teachers to ensure that students are engaged in relevant and meaningful educational activities that provide opportunities for success.

Eligible students who elect to continue their studies at the Woden School after Year 10 can enrol in courses to achieve a modified Year 12 Certificate or a Secondary College Record as they work towards post-school options.

Years 7 – 10

All courses and units of study offered at the Woden School are based on the Australian Curriculum and focus on the educational, recreational, vocational and social needs and abilities of all students.

All students in Years 7 – 10 study English, Mathematics, Science, History or Geography and Physical Education. In addition, students select two elective studies: Textiles, Visual Arts, Pottery/Ceramics, Wood technology, Food technology, Outdoor education, Leisure skills, Music, Dance and Drama.

Students in Years 9 and 10 participate in a formal ‘Independent Travel’ unit as part of a transition program for post school life; the unit is highly supported and individually negotiated.

1. An inclusive culture starts from the premise that everyone in the school community should feel that they belong, have opportunities to realise their potential, and contribute to the life of the school. How is an inclusive culture realised at the Woden School and within your own school setting?
2. In an inclusive school culture, diversity is embraced. What learning supports/adjustments are utilised at the Woden School to provide flexible learning experiences focused on the individual student? Now consider your own school context.