Additional learning support

At our school, we ensure every student is ready to learn. We support students with disability and additional learning needs so they can take part in all areas of school life. You do not need a formal diagnosis for your child to receive support in a mainstream class. Support can begin at any stage of school.

I cannot speak more highly of Cowan Public School and the way it has embraced our whole family. Don't be deceived by its small stature - this means more individualised learning, close friendships and community connections, constant creativity and children who learn to truly embrace each other as individuals.

Support class

At Cowan Public School we have one multi-categorical (MC) class that caters for students with Autism and intellectual disabilities. This class is provided with access to the NSW curriculum with an experienced and dedicated teacher, and full time School Learning Support Officer (SLSO).

Each student works with an individual program that is developed to meet the needs of each child in consultation with parents and other therapists, if relevant. Each program enables them to reach their full potential in all areas. Students are supported intellectually, emotionally and physically in all areas.

Features of our program

Enrolment from Kindergarten up to Year 6 in an inclusive small school
15 minutes from Hornsby
A caring and happy learning environment to maximise learning and positive self esteem
Access to Itinerant Support Teachers for variety of needs
An expert School Counsellor to advise on the specific needs of each child
Appropriate integration into mainstream classes for students - from social interaction to inclusion in academic areas
Representation on the Student Council
Air conditioned classrooms and easy access throughout the whole school with ramps
Excursions, annual school camps and overnight excursions with the mainstream classes
Mainstream Buddy Class for special events
Inclusion in the school choir and dance group when appropriate
Before and after school care

"As a mum with a combination of neurodiverse and neurotypical children, I can honestly say that my kids come home every day wearing a big smile on their faces. They are always made to feel so worthwhile, respected and supported and the school is focussed on turning out great humans (while also allowing them to just be kids and have fun whilst learning). CPS embodies a truly inclusive model based not just on semantics. And - the kids all sit each morning to have a healthy breakfast together at Breakfast Club. Doesn't get much better than that!! The strong volunteer levels we have and community support unite us in a mission to make the school work and that's reflected in the awesome stuff our kids get to do." Sophie a 2025 Kinder and Year 1 parent of Cowan Public School

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Support that fits your child's needs

Some students need extra support to feel confident and do their best at school. We work closely with families to make support plans and adjustments that suits each child’s needs.

Additional learning support can include:

teachers and support staff working together with families (and students, if needed)
specialist support for students learning English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D)

providing tailored programs to help high potential and gifted students with their advanced learning needs

small group tutoring to provide targeted literacy and numeracy support for students
regular check-ins to review and update the planned supports
changes to the classrooms:
- accessible classrooms
- assistive technology
- instructional resources
extra guidance, simpler content or different focus during lessons
assessment adjustments:
- more time
- simpler language
- breaks during tasks
- different ways to complete a task (e.g. oral presentations instead of written tasks).

We know when a student needs help when:

teachers notice changes in learning or behaviour
reviewing assessment results and learning progress
parents and carers raise concerns or ask for support.

Adjustments are planned with parents and carers. They are reviewed regularly and changed when needed. If you think your child may need extra help, contact us.

Learning and support team

Our learning and support team helps make sure every student gets the help they need at the right time. The team works with families, teachers and support staff to: