People With Disabilities – Statement of Commitment

Introduction 

Everyone at LIVING SCHOOL (School) is committed to supporting the rights, inclusion and participation of people with disabilities. The School recognises its responsibility to ensure that all students, staff, parents, caregivers and visitors with disabilities have equal access to the opportunities, services and experiences offered by the School.

The purpose of the School’s People with Disabilities – Statement of Commitment is to make you aware of:

• the School’s commitment to equity, access and inclusion for people with disabilities;

• the procedures in place to monitor, support and report on accessibility and inclusion; and

• the responsibilities of staff and leadership in implementing and maintaining this commitment.

Who does this statement apply to?

This Statement applies to:

• all staff employed at the School in both school-based and non-school-based positions;

• all students who attend the School; and

• the broader School community including parents, caregivers, volunteers and visitors.

It applies to all interactions and activities within the School environment, including:

• daily classroom learning and teaching activities;

• school events, excursions and programs; and

• the provision of services and access to school facilities.

1. Objectives – Policy Statement

LIVING SCHOOL will assist people with disabilities to gain the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to successfully participate as citizens by working with staff and students to achieve the following goals:

1. Equal Opportunity

   • Students, staff and visitors with disabilities will be provided with the same opportunities as other people to access education, training, and school services.

2. Ongoing Improvement and Reporting

   • The School will report on its progress in developing and implementing policies and practices that improve access, participation and outcomes for people with disabilities.

3. Collaboration and Strategic Alliances

   • The School will strengthen strategic alliances and maintain a coordinated approach to the delivery of services for people with disabilities.

2. Context

This policy is informed by, and complies with:

• Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1992

• Disability Standards for Education 2005

The School also upholds the principle of normalisation, ensuring that people with disabilities are supported to participate in school life as fully as possible.

3. Responsibilities and Delegations

Board Chair

• Approval of policy documents.

Conductor (Principal) and Business Manager

• Ensure the publication, accessibility and currency of the policy and support materials.

• Notify staff of any changes to this policy.

• Provide advice on interpretation and implementation of the policy.

• Manage and oversee the implementation of the policy.

• Support staff with policy development, implementation and evaluation.

• Monitor, evaluate, review and report on policy implementation to the Board Chair.

Teachers

• Implement and monitor this policy in classrooms and learning environments.

• Support and advocate for inclusive practice within their sphere of influence.

4. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Requirements

To meet relevant building and accessibility requirements, LIVING SCHOOL has:

• installed an accessibility lift, toilet and shower;

• ensured all doorways and egress routes are compliant; and

• provided facilities that meet the needs of people with disabilities.

The Conductor (Principal) and Business Manager will:

• monitor the implementation of this policy;

• report annually, or as required, to the School Board.

Teachers are responsible for ensuring the principles of this policy are applied within their classrooms and learning activities.

Review: January 2027