Support Unit: Hearing

Our school is proud to host a Hearing Support Unit, one of only two schools in Sydney that employs an oral/aural framework to support students with hearing impairments. This unique approach allows us to provide specialised education tailored to the needs of each student, fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and socially.

Support Class Placement

You cannot enrol your child directly into a support class but your local school can help you with this process. The first step is to speak to your child’s school. The school will work with you to determine if your child is eligible and if this type of support will meet their needs.

This option is available when:

• Your child has significant support needs and meets the department's disability criteria.
• This type of specialist support will meet their educational needs.
• An application is completed in collaboration with you. This is usually arranged by the learning and support team at the school your child is enrolled in.

A local Support Class panel considers the application and decides an outcome. This application is called an ‘access request’.

Personalised Learning Environment

In our Hearing Support Unit, students benefit from a small learning environment with specialised teachers who are trained to support diverse learning styles. This intimate setting enables educators to dedicate time and attention to each individual student, fostering a strong foundation for academic growth and personal development.

The Unit is an integral part of the school and the students are, first and foremost, St Ives High School students. The students are enjoying recently upgraded facilities.

Our curriculum aligns with the NSW Department of Education guidelines, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education. We make necessary accommodations and adjustments to the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of our students, enhancing their learning experiences.

Integration with Mainstream Classes

We believe in the value of inclusivity and strive to integrate students into mainstream classes and electives when appropriate for their academic ability. This integration helps build social skills and promotes a sense of belonging within the wider school community.

Comprehensive Support System

To further assist our students, we provide a range of support services, including:

• Student Counsellor Support: Our dedicated student counsellors are available to help address any emotional or social challenges students may face.
• Learning Support Team: This team collaborates with external agencies to facilitate learning pathways, ensuring that students are prepared for further studies or future employment opportunities.

Ongoing Review and Transition Support

We hold annual student review meetings with the Support Unit team to discuss each student’s progress and make necessary adjustments to their ILP. Additionally, when a student completes their school education, we conduct transition meetings to assist them with work placement and further education options.

Our Hearing Support Unit is committed to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience for students with hearing impairements. By focusing on individualised learning, integrating students into mainstream classes, and offering comprehensive support services, we empower our students to reach their full potential.

Have a question for our principal or teachers?

Our friendly office team can help you get in touch.

Contact us