Summary
The Public Education Awards highlight outstanding practices in inclusive education, focusing on improving outcomes for learners with diverse needs. Three finalists, Diana Pickett from Longstreet Primary School, Belinda Smith from Highbury Primary School, and Michael Hewitt from Kidman Park Primary School, share their innovative approaches to fostering inclusivity within their schools.
Diana emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of belonging for all students at Longstreet Primary. The school employs a multi-tiered system of support, utilizing an intervention matrix to address individual needs in literacy, numeracy, and social programs. This structured approach has led to significant improvements, particularly in oral language skills among reception students, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted interventions.
Belinda discusses the collaborative structures at Highbury Primary, including a dedicated inclusion position on the governing council and initiatives that promote interaction between mainstream and special needs students. She highlights the importance of family involvement and staff training in creating an inclusive environment, noting that small gestures can have a profound impact on students and their families.
Michael reflects on the integrated approach at Kidman Park Primary, where inclusion is a shared responsibility among all staff and students. He describes the implementation of neuroaffirming language and daily wellbeing check-ins that support student engagement and foster a cohesive school community. Each finalist expresses pride in their school cultures, emphasizing the collective efforts that make inclusion a fundamental part of their educational practices.
Show Notes
Each year the Public Education Awards recognise the vital role our people and communities play in helping children and young people to learn and thrive. In this episode of Teach, you’ll meet the 2026 finalists for the Inclusive Practices in Education Award. This award celebrates the people and teams helping every child feel included, supported and able to thrive at school. It recognises those who build strong relationships with students, families and colleagues, and create a real sense of belonging in their communities. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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