Inclusive Education Centre
Christies Beach High School’s purpose built Inclusive Education Centre (IEC) is a space that integrates innovative architecture and creative interior design to maximise student engagement in learning programs.
The IEC is located on the grounds of CBHS and the program caters for a capacity of 60 students with varying levels of intellectual disabilities and other additional needs across years 7-12. Entry to the IEC is via a panel process managed by the Department for Education’s regional office.
Once a family has received a letter of offer to our program, individual arrangements around transition can begin. Adjustments recorded in the One Plan provide staff with valuable information around learning goals and future pathways.
Teachers in the IEC are highly dedicated in providing a personalised learning program for your child. This takes place through a case coordination system, whereby the Care Group teacher manages all learning and wellbeing issues on a daily basis. Support staff (SSOs) work alongside teachers and also have a detailed knowledge of the individual learning profile of your child. Students have access to whole school facilities and programs based on individual needs and goals documented in their learning plan.
We pride ourselves on the strong connections developed with families and carers of students with disabilities. There are regular opportunities to meet with teachers, and work in partnership to provide a flexible learning experience that is engaging and individualised as your child progresses through schooling.
Curriculum Philosophy
Students with intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties are offered a diverse curriculum meeting the individual needs of all students, preparing them for an independent life beyond school. The foundation for all learning is built upon strong relationships, high expectations and a learning program tailored to meet the needs and ability level of each student.
Students participate in a number of core subjects in years 7 to 12 as well as elective subjects in the aim of maintaining a balanced curriculum.
Within the IEC students will have the opportunity to:
- develop skills in the 7 General Capabilities of the Australian Curriculum – literacy, numeracy, ICT, critical and creative thinking, personal and social capability, ethical understanding and intercultural understanding
- develop skills in independent living
- develop skills in work education using the Australian Core Skills Framework
- be supported in transitioning to life beyond schooling
- complete the SACE-modified
- may participate in suitable Vocational Education and Training courses, Job Training packages and enterprising opportunities
- develop personal skills and abilities in areas of interest.
Core units of work are developed using an Understanding by Design Framework and mapped against learning outcomes in the Australian Curriculum, SACE and some VET packages. All students will have the opportunity to complete their SACE-modified for students with disabilities starting at year 10 and finishing at the end of year 12 after 6 years of secondary schooling.
Please note that students enrolled in SACE-modified are not eligible for an ATAR score for university entrance.
Curriculum emphasis
Teachers and support staff in the IEC have a deep understanding of the differences in learning each student brings to the classroom. Curriculum design focusing on functional literacy and numeracy skills through interest-based learning underpins the development of necessary life skills.
Independent living skills are practiced in each year level through a variety of methods including community access, partnerships with local businesses as well as, work and transition programs. As students progress, the skills required to become productive and independent members of their community are developed across all areas of the curriculum.
Special Programs
Offsite learning programs are highly valued as they assist students with intellectual disabilities in transferring knowledge of new skills. These programs and resources compliment the work that occurs within the school environment and are essential in developing skills needed for life after school.
These programs include but are not limited to:
- Department for Education Extended Water Safety Program
- Ladies of Variety events
- Transport Training
- Group and individual work experience in supported employment settings
- Links with Disability Employment Providers
- Special Olympics
- Inclusive Basketball SA
- Camp Calperum – sponsored by Rotary of Noarlunga.