Learning Support and Inclusive Education
At St Francis Xavier’s, a Catholic secondary school within the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, we are committed to nurturing the dignity, wellbeing and potential of every student. Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ and Catholic Social Teaching, we seek to be a community where all young people are known, valued and supported to flourish.
Learning Support at our school reflects our mission to walk alongside students in relationships, responding with compassion, justice and hope to the diverse needs present within our learning community. We recognise each student as created in the image of God and believe inclusive education is central to our Gospel call.
Our Inclusive and Relationship-Centred Approach
Inclusive education in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is grounded in strong relationships and a deep respect for human dignity. At our school, Learning Support is delivered through a collaborative, strengths-based model that values student voice and family partnership.
Our approach aligns with Diocesan inclusive education principles and the Disability Standards for Education, seeks to remove barriers to learning and participation, emphasises belonging, engagement and meaningful access to the curriculum, and recognises that student needs may be ongoing or change over time.
Learning Support in a Secondary School Context
In the secondary years, Learning Support focuses on empowering students to grow as confident, independent learners within a nurturing and inclusive faith community.
Support aims to assist students to access subject content across multiple learning areas, develop organisation, study skills and self-management strategies, build confidence, resilience and self-advocacy, and prepare for senior schooling, post-school pathways and lifelong learning.
What Learning Support May Include
Depending on individual learning needs, Learning Support may involve reasonable adjustments and differentiated teaching within the classroom, targeted small-group programs, Learner Profiles, assessment adjustments (for Stage 4 & 5, these are incorporated within the class setting, for Stage 6 we align with NESA guidelines), collaboration with classroom teachers, support during transitions, and partnerships with wellbeing staff and external professionals.
Accessing Learning Support
Learning Support is provided on the basis of educational need and may be short-term or ongoing, with regular review to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.
Partnership with Families
Consistent with our Catholic understanding of education as a shared responsibility, we value strong and respectful partnerships with families. Open communication helps us respond thoughtfully and effectively to each student’s needs.
Contact for Learning Support
Leader of Learning Support: Ms Anne-Marie Melocco