With the return to school upon us, we have been investigating what supports the NDIS can fund to assist children with disability or additional needs to make their learning experience better.

When considering what supports are available for school students with disability, it is important to first understand the difference between the school education system and the NDIS.

What is the School Education System?

The school education system includes all primary schools and high schools in Australia. It is responsible for providing supports to help students learn and achieve their study and educational outcomes. Examples of the supports this system should provide include:

• Providing learning assistance and teachers aides

• Modifying the school building to be accessible (ramps, lifts etc.)

• Changing the curriculum to support students’ learning needs

• Providing day-to-day support and supervision of students

What is the NDIS responsible for?

The NDIS is responsible for funding reasonable and necessary supports that students’ may require due to their disability, and which are not related to their learning. This includes:

• Support with daily living activities (eating, going to the toilet etc.)

• Transport to and from school

• Specialised training for teachers

• Assistive technology (hearing aids, wheelchairs etc.)

The NDIS also funds specialist supports to assist participants who are transitioning to higher education, training, or work. The School Leaver Employment Supports are available to students in their final year of high school and aim to help these individuals gain the skills and confidence to move into employment.

It is important to remember that the support must also meet the NDIS funding criteria before it can be included in a participant’s plan.