RMIT expert available for comment on the disability inclusion package for schools announced in the Victorian Budget

RMIT expert available for comment on the disability inclusion package for schools announced in the Victorian Budget

An expert from RMIT University is available to talk about the announcement the Victorian Budget will invest nearly $1.6 billion to support children with a disability in the classroom.

Academic name (0434 099 616 or david.armstrong@rmit.edu.au)
Topics: disability, education, inclusion, 2020/2021 budget.

“Investment in the inclusion of kids with disability is an investment in the quality of schools and this welcome news places Victoria at the forefront of efforts to modernise Australia’s education system and meet international commitments to an inclusive school system.’

“The recent Disability Royal Commission hearing revealed just how much many schools need to change culture and attitudes to make inclusion happen though. We hear shocking reports of how many students with disability end up out of the education system, excluded due to one-size-fits all approach.

“I handed the Disability Royal Commission a detailed plan setting out how schools can address this challenge and based on ‘what works’ according to research.

“The main points in this plan align with what we know about the purpose of the Disability Inclusion package and for instance better supporting students who may have previously been ineligible for targeted support – such as those with autism, dyslexia or complex behaviours.

"Research highlights that many of the changes necessary for inclusion are inexpensive or even cost free so this funding should create noticeable change in classrooms in Victoria – if schools have the right support.

“We know from the research that persuading schools and teachers to adopt new practices over the long term can be a challenge, with the danger that schools go back to the old ways of doing things.

“Research also indicates that showing teachers the value of adopting new practices in a non-judgmental environment is key.

“The 100 extra staff mentioned as providing ‘on-the-ground implementation support and program delivery for schools’ in the announcement will require some expert support to make the most of their roles.”

Dr David Armstrong is a Senior Lecturer at RMIT’s School of Education and an international expert on educational exclusion, behaviour in schools and disability. He recently appeared at the Disability Royal Commission as an expert witness on behaviour in schools and the exclusion of students with a disability, and is a regular media commentator on educational exclusion, behaviour in schools and disability.

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For media enquiries, please contact RMIT Communications: 0439 704 077 or news@rmit.edu.au

23 November 2020

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23 November 2020

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