St Ives High School

Respect Perseverance Growth

Telephone02 9144 1689

Emailstives-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Support Unit: Hearing

Hearing Support Unit: Empowering Students with Hearing Impairments

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 can’t 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

 

Nurturing Learning Environment

In our Hearing Support Unit, students learn in a small, nurturing environment where specialised teachers focus on their unique learning styles. This setting allows for personalised instruction, enabling educators to dedicate time to each individual student, and helping to build their confidence and enhance their learning experiences.

Our curriculum follows the guidelines set forth by the NSW Department of Education, and we make necessary accommodations and adjustments to meet the diverse needs of our students. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that all students receive a high-quality education.

Integration into Mainstream Classes

Recognising the importance of social interaction and inclusion, we strive to integrate students into mainstream classes and electives whenever appropriate for their academic abilities. This integration not only helps students develop their social skills but also fosters a sense of belonging within the broader school community.

Comprehensive Support Services

To provide well-rounded support, we offer a variety of services, including:

  • Student Counsellor Support: Our student counsellors are available to assist students with any emotional or social challenges they may encounter.
  • Learning Support Team: This team works alongside external agencies to facilitate pathways for students, ensuring they are prepared for further studies at TAFE, university, or employment opportunities.

Ongoing Review and Transition Support

We hold annual student review meetings with the Support Unit team to assess each student’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to their ILP. Furthermore, as students near the completion of their school education, we conduct transition meetings to assist them with work placement and further education options.

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