Protective Behaviours
Comprehensive lessons are run across all classes utilising the Department of Education endorsed, Protective Behaviours WA resources. Lessons are delivered by classroom teachers using a developmental, whole school learning program kit which was formulated in collaboration with staff, therapists, parents and carers.
Education and Teaching
Merriwa Education Support Centre -
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caters for academic and behavioural needs of children with disabilities– 2 to 12 yrs.
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is a primary school that cares about student achievements and in providing quality programs that are purposeful and authentic to the specific needs of each child.
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has professional staff working in collaboration with various therapists and agencies to ensure success for all students.
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expects high standards in learning and behaviour.
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designs programs to enable all children to achieve according to their capability.
The development of various special programs listed below, has provided a rich learning environment to accommodate the diverse needs of our students. Our aim is to build independence and the development of self-management skills to allow students to explore their individual interests and academic capacity.
Our Programs
Maths
The whole school focus in numeracy is to establish skills which enable students to recognise numbers and number patterns, and to have a basic understanding of time and money concepts.
Students who have demonstrated a strong understanding in this area are offered the opportunity to attend Origo Maths lessons to extend their skills.
Communication
All students are given opportunities to communicate through various tools and strategies. Students with complex communication needs have access to a variety of communication methods such as: gestures, signing, symbols, pictures, communication aids and computers to improve the ability to communicate their needs and wants.
English
In Literacy, learning activities focus on phonemic awareness and develop student knowledge of letter sounds. The consistent approach allows students to establish emergent literacy skills using a common approach from class to class.
The Talk4Writing strategy is modified to ensure students can build their understanding of writing conventions. Our focus on building comprehension skills is vital across all learning areas.
Sensory Learning
Learning spaces are equipped to provide alternative areas for students to engage in purposeful learning. The program aims to manage and create desired behaviours in a supportive, safe environment which promotes progress and independence. Students are provided with the resources and strategies to help regulate their sensory systems.
We support an integrated curriculum which provides opportunities for students to explore Aboriginal and Cultural Education, Science, Health, Humanities and Social Sciences, Technologies and The Arts through practical hands-on activities. The integrated approach allows teachers to use a thematic focus when planning learning content and incorporate the topic across all learning areas throughout the term.
Integrated Studies
Recreation
Opportunities to engage in programs to stimulate creativity and develop self-regulation skills are provided on-site and in the community. Students may engage in yoga, dance, art/craft, kids aerobics, gym, bike riding, team games and Ten-Pin bowling activities throughout the year.
Fundamental Movement
Students engage in daily classroom lessons, and in explicit teaching lessons each week, to develop their gross motor and fine motor skills.
School Readiness
The program provides opportunities for parents and carers to engage in meaningful interactions with their child to stimulate learning and purposeful play in a caring, supportive and relaxed environment. The needs of 2- and 3-year-olds with disabilities, developmental delays, and diverse learning needs are considered in a play-based program facilitated by a specialist teacher.
Technology
Learning through iPads and associated apps, computers, robotics, interactive whiteboards, cameras, communication tools and appropriate academic online programs is widely embraced across the school.
Community Access
Regular opportunities are utilised to provide authentic learning experiences within the local community. Students are taught to access public transport and engage with real life interactions in their community.
STEM
Merriwa ESC strives to establish a consistent integrated learning approach through the teaching and learning of Science, Technologies, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills for all students Kindy to Year 6.
The STEM program aims to provide students with activities that are practical and hands on, to teach them about their environment and help them navigate their world.