Choosing the Right School: Options for Children with Disabilities in Australia

What are the school options for children with disabilities?

In Australia, families can choose from several types of schools to best support children with disabilities, including mainstream, special education, independent, and specialist support classes. Each option offers different levels of inclusion, support, and learning styles to meet individual needs.

 

Understanding the Australian School System

Australia’s education system offers flexible schooling options. All children have the right to attend school and receive support under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and Disability Standards for Education 2005. The key is finding the best fit for your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals.

 

Mainstream Schools

Mainstream schools are regular public or private schools that offer inclusive classrooms. Many children with disabilities thrive in these environments with the right adjustments and support.

Benefits:

• Social inclusion with typically developing peers
• Access to the Australian Curriculum
• Supports such as teacher aides, modified lessons, or therapy visits

Things to consider:

• The level of support may vary between schools
• Class sizes may be larger
• Teachers may not always have specialised training

📍 Freedom Therapy Services can work closely with your child’s mainstream teacher to implement Positive Behaviour Support or individualised psychology strategies. Learn more about our psychology services.

 

Special Schools

Special schools are designed specifically for students with high or complex support needs. These schools often have smaller classes, trained special education staff, and customised learning plans.

Benefits:

• Staff trained in disability and behavioural needs
• Customised learning programs
• Greater access to therapy and daily living skill development

Things to consider:

• Less exposure to neurotypical peers
• May require a diagnosis and government approval to enrol
• Fewer location options, especially in regional areas

For example, in New South Wales, the Department of Education outlines eligibility requirements for enrolment in special schools. Visit the NSW Government Education site for more details.

 

Support Units and Specialist Classes

Some mainstream schools offer support units or specialist classes. These provide a smaller learning environment within the larger school community. It’s a “best of both worlds” model for many families.

Benefits:

• Smaller classes with higher staff-to-student ratios
• Access to both mainstream activities and specialised support
• Ideal for students needing moderate support

Things to consider:

• Availability can vary across regions
• Children may still transition to mainstream classes over time

These units are common for children with autism, ADHD, and learning difficulties who need structure and targeted support but can still benefit from mainstream experiences.

 

Independent and Private Schools

Some private schools in Australia cater specifically to children with disabilities or additional learning needs. Others offer inclusive programs within a broader school community.

Benefits:

• May offer unique programs or therapeutic models
• Smaller class sizes in some settings
• Values-based or alternative curriculum options (e.g. Montessori, Steiner)

Things to consider:

• Higher tuition fees
• Variable access to government-funded supports like NDIS
• May require assessments or interviews

Some parents find that independent schools are a better match for their child’s sensory, emotional, or learning profile.

 

Home Schooling and Distance Education

Home schooling and distance education are legal alternatives for families who want greater flexibility or feel traditional settings aren’t the right fit.

Benefits:

• Customised pace and content
• Reduced exposure to stressors like bullying or sensory overload
• Opportunities to focus on life skills and self-regulation

Things to consider:

• Requires significant parent involvement
• Social opportunities must be actively created
• Registration is required through your state’s education authority

Home education can be paired with therapy services to support emotional regulation, communication, or behaviour at home. Learn more about our services to support children in home or community settings.

 

How to Decide What’s Best?

Choosing a school setting depends on your child’s:

• Diagnosis and functional needs
• Communication style and behaviour
• Learning strengths and challenges
• Emotional and social needs
• Family values and preferences

A good school fit can make a huge difference in a child’s confidence, independence, and joy for learning.

🧠 Pro tip: If your child receives NDIS funding, a psychologist or behaviour therapist can help with school transition planning, classroom strategies, or functional assessments.

 

Working With Schools and Therapists

Therapy providers like Freedom Therapy Services can work alongside schools to support your child. This might include:

• Functional Behaviour Assessments (FBA)
• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plans
• Parent coaching to support learning at home
• Therapy reports for Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

We can collaborate with teachers to ensure your child’s goals are consistent across school and home.

 

 

FAQ: School Options for Children with Disabilities

What is the best school option for a child with autism?

There is no one-size-fits-all. Some children thrive in mainstream settings with support, while others benefit from specialist classrooms or autism-specific schools.

Can my child attend a mainstream school with a disability?

Yes. Under Australian law, schools must make reasonable adjustments to support students with disabilities.

What support can my child receive at school?

Supports include learning aides, modified tasks, sensory breaks, and visits from allied health professionals like psychologists or behaviour therapists.

How do I enrol my child in a special school?

You’ll usually need assessments from professionals and a referral through your state education department. Contact your local school principal or education district office.