Our Pledge for Inclusive Education

“We pledge our support for the Goal and Principles of inclusive education as a fundamental human right of every person, and will work towards an inclusive education system and the elimination of barriers and discrimination against children and young people with disability in education and in society as a whole.“

Goal of Inclusive Education

Every child and young person is welcomed and valued as a member of their school and receives a quality inclusive education on an equal basis with others in learning environments free of discrimination.  This includes learning together with similar-aged peers, having authentic friendships and relationships and the opportunity and support to achieve their best educational outcomes and participate fully in every aspect of schooling.

Principles of Inclusive Education

A just society

Schools play a key role in imparting the values of an inclusive Australian society committed to human rights, equality and non-discrimination.

An education system for all

All students are accepted into a single, universally accessible and inclusive education system.  Students are not segregated or excluded on the basis of disability and receive the support required within the general education system, to realise their right to education on an equal basis with others.

A welcoming and inclusive environment

All students and other members of the school community are welcomed and belong in a learning environment free from discrimination and prejudice.  Schools embed the values of full inclusion into their culture, policies and practices and adopt effective measures to prevent abuse and bullying. 

Diversity

Diversity is recognised and valued and all students feel respected, included and listened to.  The differing requirements and identities of individual students are accommodated and there is a commitment to the elimination of barriers impeding the right to education.

Access, participation and outcomes

Curriculum, resources, assessment and teaching practices value and respond to the diversity of all students and provide educational experiences that are inclusive of individual needs. Education systems and educators have high learning expectations for students with disability, and seek to optimise learning outcomes.  Any support measures provided to individual students strengthen opportunities for them to participate in the classroom and in out-of-school activities alongside their peers, rather than marginalising them.

Transparency and accountability

The Australian and State/Territory Governments are accountable to Australia’s agreed international human rights conventions, treaties and agreements, particularly the right to inclusive education under Article 24 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and General Comment No. 4 (Right to Inclusive Education).  The Australian and State/Territory Governments take significant action to provide inclusive education for students with disability, and monitor and report on progress towards meeting their human rights obligations.