吃瓜不打烊

15 August 2024

The Learning Diversity team’s learning support officers from Nazareth College, Noble Park North, are the Victorian finalists in the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide Team of the Year Awards.

Students at Nazareth College are supported by a team of 21 learning support officers. This team plays an important role in supporting students’ learning and social–emotional needs throughout the school day and beyond.

‘As well as supporting our students, they work collaboratively with teachers and school leaders to deliver a high-quality, inclusive experience for the students at our college’, said Emma Wray, Instructional Leader.

The Learning Diversity team positively impacts student learning and wellbeing by implementing positive behaviour support plans in classrooms, and works closely with the Wellbeing team. In their role, the learning support officers provide academic support, including in-class assistance, small group literacy and numeracy interventions, online support, after-school homework help, exam and test revision, and special provisions during tests.

The team supports students in whole-class settings, small groups and one-on-one situations, demonstrating a high level of commitment and professionalism. They also volunteer for initiatives such as the breakfast club, providing lunchtime support, running social skills programs, and offering one-on-one support for wellbeing, organisation and homework.

The Learning Diversity team is dedicated to professional growth and improving practices. They engage in continuous professional development, covering areas such as QuickSmart mathematics, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, mental health and assistive technology.

They share their learning with each other and support teachers in integrating these strategies into their teaching. This ongoing development has enhanced the team’s ability to support students, particularly through assistive technologies, which foster greater independent learning.

Winners of the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards will be announced on Thursday 5 September.

This is an extract of an that was originally published on the Australian Teacher Aide website.