Framework for Inclusion 2019 - 2029

In 2019, the Department of Education and Training released the Framework for Inclusion 2019-2029, the department’s 10-year strategy to build an inclusive education system for all students.

As a strategic action under the Education NT Strategy 2021-2025, the framework recognises that any learner may need additional support at some stage. It promotes an environment in Northern Territory Government schools which is inclusive, fair and focused on delivering learning to meet individual needs.

Priority actions to guide the implementation of the framework fall into 3 themes:

1. actions focused on children and students, families and communities
2. actions focusing on developing the capability of schools and school staff, and
3. actions focused on improving system.

The framework will be implemented in 3 phases – 2019-22; 2023-2025; and 2026-2028. Progress will be reviewed at the end of each phase, to measure our impact and facilitate planning for the next phase. The framework will be evaluated in 2029.

Current projects under the framework include:

• Development of a needs-based resourcing model for students with disability to enable improved outcomes that aligns with the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission and NDIS review.
• The ongoing expansion of regionally based, multi-disciplinary teams that provide direct support to schools. These teams are comprised of inclusion advisors, school counsellors, psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, vision and hearing advisors and behaviour coaches. These teams support schools with whole school, small group and individual support for students.
• Continued support of a student advocacy service, which has been trialled in Darwin and Palmerston. During July to December 2023, 89 families were supported to resolve complaints and issues relating to the access and participation of their children in schools, with 24 families receiving information to self-advocate and 65 families receiving more intensive support. It is being continued and strengthened in 2024 based on recommendations from an independent review completed in 2023.
• Development of professional learning for educators to improve capabilities in positive behaviour and safe and supportive de-escalation strategies.
• Strengthening the Be You (Beyond Blue) partnership to build the capacity of schools to develop whole school approaches to wellbeing..

Framework for inclusion PDF (1.3 MB)

A3 summary document PDF (234.7 KB)

Review of policy and practice for students with additional needs PDF (22.1 MB)

Contact

For more information, contact Student Wellbeing and Inclusion Programs and Services on 08 8944 9257 or email oswips@education.nt.gov.au.