Orange frilled-neck lizard wearing red shirt and black shorts, waving with a smile.

Special Education

Teaching and Learning

A Vital Part of Our Community

Special Education is an essential part of learning at Alawa Primary School. Our dedicated team works alongside teachers, families and specialist services to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Our Team

The Special Education Team usually includes:

  • Special Education Teacher

  • Special Education Assistant


  • Special Education Support Assistant (SESA)


Together, they collaborate with classroom teachers, parents/carers, Student Services staff, and outside agencies to design support that meets individual needs.

The Role of Special Education

Our Special Education Teacher works closely with classroom teachers to:

  • Identify students with academic, behavioural, emotional, or social needs


  • Suggest and implement strategies so students can access the curriculum and achieve success


  • Support transitions from Preschool into Primary and from Primary into Middle School


  • Assist families in accessing specialist government and non-government services when needed

Skilled and Supported Staff

Our SESA staff are highly professional and committed to ongoing learning. They:

  • Attend regular training and professional development in learning and behavioural support

  • Stay updated with curriculum changes and school priorities

Work hand-in-hand with class teachers to provide the best learning outcomes for every student

The Role of Special Education

Our Special Education Teacher works closely with classroom teachers to:

  • Identify students with academic, behavioural, emotional, or social needs


  • Suggest and implement strategies so students can access the curriculum and achieve success


  • Support transitions from Preschool into Primary and from Primary into Middle School


  • Assist families in accessing specialist government and non-government services when needed

Wrap-Around Services at Alawa

Alawa is unique in offering a Wrap-Around Service that brings additional expertise directly into our school.


  • Each year, we host Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy students on final placement, who provide assessment and therapy for children needing support.

  • We have created an Engine Room, a dedicated space for developing regulation, motor planning and movement skills.

  • Over the past five years, more than 120 students have receive

Impact of the Wrap-Around Service

  • Early intervention has placed children on a more positive learning path sooner.


  • Students have received 6–8 weeks of intensive therapy improving motor planning, gross motor, fine motor and core strength.


  • Last year alone, support included:


  • Securing classroom funding within 6 weeks for students needing intensive support
  • Identifying students requiring urgent medical intervention due to severe illness
  • Confirming eligibility for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), enabling families to access ongoing therapy, support and resources

Our Commitment

At Alawa Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that every child feels supported, included and able to achieve their personal best. Through strong partnerships with families, staff and specialist services, we provide the care, skills and opportunities that students need to succeed.