Additional learning support

At our school, we ensure every student is ready to learn. We support students with disability and additional learning needs so they can take part in all areas of school life. You do not need a formal diagnosis for your child to receive support in a mainstream class. Support can begin at any stage of school.

Support that fits your child's needs

Some students need extra support to feel confident and do their best at school. We work closely with families to make support plans and adjustments that suit each child’s needs.

Additional learning support can include:

• teachers and support staff working together with families (and students, if needed)
• specialist support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)

• providing tailored programs to help high potential and gifted students with their advanced learning needs

• small group tutoring to provide targeted literacy and numeracy support for students

• regular check-ins to review and update the planned supports

• changes to the classrooms:

  • accessible classrooms
  • assistive technology
  • instructional resources

• extra guidance, simpler content or different focus during lessons

• assessment adjustments:

  • more time
  • simpler language
  • breaks during tasks
  • different ways to complete a task (e.g. oral presentations instead of written tasks).

We know when a student needs help when:

• teachers notice changes in learning or behaviour
• reviewing assessment results and learning progress
• parents and carers raise concerns or ask for support.

Adjustments are planned with parents and carers. They are reviewed regularly and changed when needed.  If you think your child may need extra help, contact us.

Learning and support team

Our learning and support team helps make sure every student gets the help they need at the right time. The team works with families, teachers and support staff to:

• understand each student’s needs
• plan adjustments and supports
• monitor progress
• connect with other services if needed.

Our learning and support team may include:

• learning and support teachers
• school learning support officers
• school counsellors
• school psychologists

• student support officers
• itinerant teachers for vision or hearing
• English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D) teachers
• Aboriginal education officers
• community and home school liaison officers.

Contact us to meet with a member of this team to talk about your child’s strengths, interests and areas where they may need support.

Year 12 Support

• Follow the link to access the HSC Support Webinars provided by the University of Newcastle

The University has partnered with InspirationED to bring a series of free webinars that are run by highly experienced HSC teachers and markers. They will cover the construction of exemplar responses, use critical analysis skills and give you the chance to ask any questions.

These webinars provide a gateway to unlocking academic success with expert insights and practical advice in the lead up to the HSC trial exams. Delving into effective study techniques, exam hacks, and strategies for excelling in the HSC and beyond.

Student Support Team

The Student Support Team at HSPA is led by the Principal, Deputy Principals and Head Teacher Wellbeing. They play a key role in meeting the specific needs of children. This team offers a range of support to our students, including:

• School transition programs
• Intervention planning and learning support
• Specific social skills programs

• Identification and support for identified high potential and gifted students
• Disability provisions

This team will:

• Work with your child’s teachers to make sure your child’s additional learning and support needs are identified.
• Work with the whole school community and other professionals to improve learning and wellbeing for all students.

Student learning support course

For further guidance on accessing learning support at school.

Learn more