AddressYarra Ranges Special Developmental School is a specialist school that provides a quality educational program for students with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities. Around 45% of our students have a co-morbid diagnosis of Autism as well as a diagnosed intellectual disability. Many students have additional impairments, including sensory or physical. Students range in age from two years eight months to eighteen years of age. The school also has an established Satellite Unit based at Healesville Primary School. The Unit currently caters for 8 students, from foundation to grade six. Students who attend, have a mild to moderate intellectual disability.
Students must meet the state-wide eligibility criteria to attend and are enrolled at Yarra Ranges Special Developmental School in accordance with the school¿s documented enrolment policy.
Our school¿s philosophy is reflected in the programs and is based on the belief that all children can learn and learn best in a happy, challenging, and supportive environment. We recognize and value the individuality of our students. All students have an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) which is developed by teachers in conjunction with parents, guardians and caregivers, therapists and other relevant professionals. Therapists work collaboratively with teachers to provide access for students to the curriculum. A range of augmentative communication systems are used including signing, PODDs and voice output devices.
Teaching and Learning at Yarra Ranges SDS is focused around the child with the goal being to build independence. Our instructional approach is based on Communication, School Wide Positive Behaviour Support and Structuring Functional Independence. Our vision is to build independence through active learning and our school values for the whole school community are:
· Be Respectful;
· Be Responsible;
· Be Safe
These are imbedded in all school policies and practices. Our commitment to these values is supported through our positive partnerships with all members of the school and the wider community.
As a school we encourage active involvement and participation of students, staff, parents, caregivers, volunteers and the wider community.
The students are grouped into five sections: Early Years (which includes our Early Education program); Junior; Middle; Senior and Healesville with a Team Leader in each area. Curriculum design and delivery is enhanced by the expertise of a committed and caring multi-disciplinary staff which includes teachers, education support staff, physiotherapist, occupational therapists, speech therapists, welfare officer and specialist teachers. The teacher to student ratio enables small classes (6-10 students) with education support staff working alongside teachers.
The Victorian Curriculum is the basis for an adapted curriculum for Foundation to Year 9 with the addition of a specially developed Senior Pathways Curriculum, based on VCAL, for students in their final three years of schooling. Our Early Education Program is based on the Victorian Early Years Developmental Framework.
The school also provides a wide range of enrichment activities and opportunities. These include a Garden Program, Swim Squad, extra sporting activities, visiting performers and community representatives. Specialist staff conduct Swimming, Arts and Media and PE programs. Information and Communication Technology is embedded into student learning throughout the school. We also host the internationally acclaimed MeTV, our onsite television broadcasting service. MeTV enhances our students¿ learning opportunities and contributes to our curriculum in a fun, interactive way. Information Communication Technology is embedded into student learning throughout the school.
The greatest feature of our school is the feeling of welcome, warmth and empathy. Parents are encouraged to work with the school in a partnership for the benefit of their child.
