“That ICPA Qld lobbies the Department of Education (DoE) to review the current inclusion model in small rural and remote schools, informed by school survey data and student outcomes, and implement targeted adjustments where required.”
Recent school survey data from some rural schools indicates significant concerns, including students reporting that they do not like being at school and that behaviour is not effectively managed. These results highlight the need for the Department of Education to critically assess how the inclusion model is being implemented in small school settings.
A review is necessary to ensure that student safety and wellbeing are prioritised, behaviour is effectively supported and managed and schools are appropriately resourced to meet diverse and complex needs.
In some cases, this may require additional staffing or tailored support to ensure the inclusion model is both practical and effective in small, multi-age and geographically isolated school environments. Without this, students, staff and communities risk ongoing disruption to learning and wellbeing.
