The NSW Government has delivered an extra 260 support classes in NSW public schools this year, making it easier for students with disability to access high-quality learning environments, closer to home.

With this expansion, more than 34,000 students can now access support classes across NSW public schools. Classes have now been established in more than 30 schools without a previous support class provision, giving them the resources to provide extra support.

This work forms part of the state government’s commitment to delivering support for students with disability closer to where they live, with 244 support classes across mainstream schools and the remainder in Schools for Specific Purposes.

More than one-third of the extra support classes delivered this year are in Western and South Western Sydney public schools.

As part of this work, an updated enrolment policy will also be rolled out for students requiring additional support, making it easier for students requiring a support class provision to attend a school closer to home and attend the same school as their siblings.

This will also ensure an equitable distribution of support classes across NSW public schools, so schools are better meeting the needs of their local communities.

The Department of Education is also working to develop post-schooling resources to help students with additional needs transition into further study, training, or work.

The Minns Government is also investing $100 million to improve classroom and school accessibility for NSW public school students living with disability.

The investment covers more than 340 projects across NSW public schools, providing much-needed infrastructure, including ramps and handrails.

This expansion forms part of the NSW Government’s historic investment in public education across the state.

Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said, “The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring every student is supported to reach their full potential at school and beyond.

“We’re working to provide stronger support for students with disability to learn in high-quality, inclusive environments closer to home.”

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said, “Families across NSW have told us what they need, and we’re delivering. We’re proud to be making these changes with students and their families, not just for them.

“By building accessibility into our schools, we’re not only ensuring students living with disability can participate fully in their education, but we’re also fostering a culture of acceptance, empathy and understanding.”