Support Unit

The purpose-built Support Unit Classes at Caves Beach Public School are specifically designed to offer specialist and intensive support for eligible students with additional learning and support needs. This Support Unit is known as the Diverse Learning Space (DLS).

What are support classes?

Support classes offer specialist and intensive assistance for students diagnosed with an intellectual or physical disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health conditions, sensory processing disorder, or behavioural disorders. These classes are available at selected NSW public schools, including Caves Beach Public School.

Caves Beach Public School has three DLS classes: two multi-categorical (MC) classes and one Intensive Learning Support (Mental Health) class.

Diverse Learning Space classrooms create inclusive and supportive environments.

Sensory areas providing calming, controlled spaces designed to manage sensory input and aid regulation.

Project based learning tailored to student interests

Individualised programs in Key Learning Areas

Leading the way

Breakfast Club

What students learn

Students learn essential skills tailored to their individual needs, including emotional regulation, communication, social interaction, academic fundamentals, and life skills. They engage with key subjects from the NSW curriculum, all adapted to support their learning. The focus is on developing independence, building confidence, and fostering social inclusion within a supportive and structured environment.

Class sizes

There are 7 students in a DLS class. This small class size enables staff to provide personalised attention, individualised learning programs, and targeted support throughout the school day.

Teaching staff

Teaching staff in the DLS are experienced teachers and School Learning Support Officers (SLSOs). They work together to provide personalised support for students with diverse learning needs. Teachers develop and adapt learning programs, while SLSOs assist with classroom activities and help students engage successfully. Together, they create a safe and supportive environment that promotes student growth, independence, and inclusion.

Opportunities

Support classes provide valuable opportunities for students to achieve their individual learning goals through their tailored Personalised Learning and Support Plans (PLSP). These ongoing reviews in consultation with parents and carers and allied health professionals where it is appropriate. This ensures that teaching strategies are tailored to each student's needs and progress.

Additionally, DLS classes at Caves Beach Public School are part of our whole-school community. They have access to:

school-wide events such as assemblies, excursions, incursions, sport and extra-curricular activities
their mainstream peers for planned learning activities
their external providers (if applicable)
transport assistance under the Assisted School Travel Program and itinerant support teachers (hearing or vision) if eligible

How can my child be placed in a support class?

We can assist you with the process if you live within our local zone or if your child is already enrolled in a mainstream class. You cannot enrol your child directly into a support class. The first step is to speak with the school to discuss your child’s individual needs. The school will work with you to determine whether your child is eligible and if this type of specialist support will meet their educational needs.

Support classes are available for children who have significant and high support needs and meet the department’s disability criteria. An application, called an Access Request, is completed in collaboration with you, usually arranged through the learning and support team at your child’s current school. A support class panel then considers the Access Request application and makes a decision regarding placement.

Early Support Is Essential for Your Preschool Child with Additional Needs

If your preschool child has additional needs and you are considering a Support Class for them in Kindergarten, it’s important to get in touch with us as early as possible before your child starts school. Early contact gives us time to explore options such as early intervention (EI) classes or additional resources that may support your child in the year before they begin school.

Want to know more about our Diverse Learning Space classes?

We can connect you with the right teacher or staff member.

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