The Importance of Inclusion

Supporting students with additional needs starts with inclusion.

Over the past forty years, schools all around the world have shifted their approach around accommodating students with additional needs. In the past, schools aimed to integrate these students to greater or lesser degrees. Now, schools are aiming for complete inclusion, maximising students’ genuine and full participation in school life.

The Victorian Department of Education and Training’s ‘Education For All’ policy gives schools clear requirements for inclusivity. According to this policy, inclusive education:

• Ensures that students with disability are not discriminated against and are accommodated to participate in education on the same basis as their peers; acknowledges and responds to the diverse needs, identities, and strengths of all students;
• Occurs when students with disabilities and additional needs are treated with respect and are involved in making decisions about their education;
• Benefits students of all abilities in the classroom and fosters positive cultural change in attitudes and beliefs about disability, in and beyond the school environment; and
• Contributes to positive learning, engagement and wellbeing outcomes for students.

The following infographic was produced during a focus group with Victorian students who have additional needs. Read through the infographic and answer the questions in the discussion below.

Join the Discussion

• List one thing noted in the infographic that you already do as an educator.
• List one thing noted in the infographic that you could do better.
• List one thing noted in the infographic that surprised you?

Share your answer in the Comments section below and click the Mark as complete button to check this step off before continuing to the next step.