Educators and advocates across Queensland are reported to have welcomed the new disability resourcing model for state schools announced as part of the education Budget last week.
To be phased in on 2023 and 2024, the new model includes:
* Dedicated support for an extra 30,000 students with disability;
* A focus on Prep students to give them a great start;
* A new Extensive Plus resourcing category for students with the most intensive needs; and
* An easier, streamlined, single process for families without the need for additional medical or specialist reports.
Minister for Education, Grace Grace said the new model was a game changer and meant state schools would be able to support thousands more students every year.
“This is a wonderful development for students with disability and their families, as well as their school communities,” Ms Grace said.
“It’s a fundamental shift in how support is provided, with the focus moving from the current system based on six prescribed types of disability only, to a model that’s based on the level of support and adjustment that a student needs to participate in education,” she said.
“A number of disabilities will be formally recognised for the first time including dyslexia, ADHD, foetal alcohol syndrome, Tourette Syndrome, and mental health conditions.”
She said that while schools already supported the students, there would now be more dedicated resources available.
Ms Grace also welcomed the Budget’s $80 million for schools to ensure no student missed out on support while schools moved to the new model.
“It’s a major change, and schools will need time to adjust to the new way of gathering and recording information for the new model,” Ms Grace said.
“We don’t want any school or student to miss out on support while the transition is taking place.
More information on the disability resourcing model can be accessed on the Education website at this PS News link.
