Our Support Classes

At Lakemba Public School, we proudly offer three Support Classes for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability. Each class is supported by a highly experienced classroom teacher and School Learning Support Officer (SLSO).

Our smaller class sizes allow us to provide individualised support while maintaining high expectations for every student to learn, participate and thrive.

Inclusion is a fundamental part of life at Lakemba Public School. Our students are valued members of the school community and participate in all aspects of school life with the support they need to succeed.

This includes learning alongside their peers, playing in the playground, attending whole-school events and participating in extracurricular opportunities, such as Student Representative Council (SRC), dance groups and assembly performances.

Who We Support

Our support classes help students with intellectual disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, speech or language difficulties, physical disabilities and emotional or behavioural needs.

Placement in a support class depends on if your child is eligible, if this type of support will meet their needs and if there is availability.

How We Support Students

Our teaching practices are grounded in evidence-based research and aligned with the Disability Standards for Education. Students participate in all Key Learning Areas with adjustments tailored to their individual learning needs.

Through explicit teaching, structured support and gradual release of responsibility, we build students' knowledge, confidence and independence over time.

At the beginning of each semester, we work collaboratively with parents, carers and students to develop Personalised Learning and Support Plans (PLaSPs).

Student voice is highly valued, and wherever appropriate, students are encouraged to participate in setting meaningful learning, social and independence goals that reflect their strengths, interests and aspirations.

We also recognise and nurture the unique strengths of every learner.

Students who demonstrate particular talents or interests are provided with opportunities to further develop their abilities across academic, creative, physical and social domains, ensuring every child is challenged, celebrated and supported to reach their full potential.

How Students Access our Support Classes

Placement in our support classes follows an access request process. This helps us understand each student’s needs and plan the right support. The process usually includes:

1. Meeting with our learning and support team to talk about your child’s needs
2. Providing documents or assessments about your child
3. Submitting an application that is completed in collaboration with you
4. Reviewing and making a recommendation by an external specialist panel
5. Communicating the outcome of the application with parents and carers.

You can contact our school anytime to ask about our support options and how the process works.

How We Work with Families and Specialists

We work closely with families and specialists to support every student. Our teachers stay in touch with parents and carers to share progress and plan next steps.

We also work with therapists, counsellors and health professionals so students get the same support across school and home.

Learn more about additional learning support at our school.

Need Help Getting to School?

If your child has a disability or additional needs, and is enrolled in one of our Support Classes, they may be eligible for the Assisted School Travel Program. Contact us to learn more or get help planning your child's journey to school.

Want to Get Started Accessing Support?

If you think your child could benefit from our support classes, please contact our school office or learning and support team.

Contact us