“That ICPA Qld State Council, Federal Council, and ABSA be acknowledged for their prompt, dedicated, and effective work in progressing the motions relating to improved inclusion and support for students with diverse learning needs in boarding schools. Their continued advocacy on enrolment equity, the development of parent resources, and the facilitation of appropriate supports is appreciated and recognised by the Hughenden Branch.”
The Hughenden Branch brings this motion forward to acknowledge the meaningful progress made by ICPA Qld State Council, Federal Council, and ABSA in supporting students with specific needs in boarding environments.
Since the 2025 State Conference, ICPA Qld has met with the Department of Education, Independent Schools Queensland, and Catholic Education Queensland Limited. All sectors reinforced the importance of early, open communication between families and schools to ensure appropriate supports are in place from enrolment and throughout a student’s boarding journey.
ICPA Qld, together with the Queensland Independent Schools Parents Network, has also delivered two webinars to assist families preparing for boarding. These sessions provided practical guidance and expert advice, and recordings remain available on the ICPA Qld website.
Through ongoing discussions and conference debate, boarding schools across Queensland are increasingly aware of the growing number of students with additional learning needs and the importance of providing appropriate support within the boarding setting.
At the federal level, ICPA (Aust) is working with ABSA to develop a practical information resource for families of students with specific education needs. This resource will outline available supports, key questions to ask during school selection, and considerations around learning support and wellbeing.
The Hughenden Branch sincerely thanks ICPA Qld State Council, Federal Council, and ABSA for their continued advocacy and collaboration. Their efforts are strengthening communication, improving awareness, and supporting better outcomes for students with specific needs in boarding schools.
