| Special Needs Unit |
 The Special Needs Unit consists of a group of 18 learners aged from 12 - 20 years, who have a variety of learning needs. Their primary learning consists of two home-based classrooms, with nine children as well as a teacher and teacher assistant per class. The classes do however filter into the mainstream section of the school for art, music, physical education, and more formal learning areas (Maths & English) where appropriate. Vision Our vision is of a special needs facility, which is supportively and flexibly integrated into the life of St Joseph's Marist College. Mission
The team This consists of the parents, the home-base teachers, teachers' assistants, an occupational therapist, a learning support teacher, school principal and board members and members of the wider community. Parental involvement Collaborative consultation between parents and staff in individual educational development and vocational plans and in the general running of the unit. Our sense of shared mission extends in a particular way to parents, respecting their children. It is a mutual process - we assist one another to better understand and address the particular situation and educational needs of their children. Life-skills Based Curriculum The curriculum consists of functional literacy, numeracy, theme work, general knowledge, computer skills, art and craftwork, physical education sexuality education, recycling, dance and drama. Life-skills & Vocational Training Co-ordinated and developed by our supported employment specialist and staff, this consists of assessment for skills, job-sampling programme, self-advocacy skills, relationship building, awareness of difference between work and leisure and community membership. |