New Support Unit Enrolment Information

This page is for students who are already enrolled to join the Support Unit at our school. If you wish to enrol your child in a Support Unit, please see the following page.

Assistant Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to the North Rocks Public School Support Unit family. Our teachers and staff are very excited to get to know you and your children and we look forward to working together to create a positive and enriching learning environment for your child.

Our support unit is dedicated to providing tailored educational support and opportunities that cater to each student’s unique needs. At North Rocks we have three support unit classes. Each class can have a mix of students both male and female, aged from Kindergarten to Year 6. Our classes are structured to support the needs of each student by looking at their age, abilities, interests, personal needs, learning needs and learning styles. We focus on nurturing their strengths, developing new skills, and fostering confidence and independence within a caring and inclusive community.

Throughout the year, our team of specialist teachers and Student Learning Support Officers (SLSO’s), will collaborate closely with you and allied health professionals to support your child’s learning and wellbeing. We encourage open communication and value your partnership, as your insights and involvement are vital to your child’s success.

Please feel free to reach out to us anytime with questions, concerns, or suggestions. We will also keep you informed through regular updates and meetings to share your child’s progress and celebrate achievements.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. We look forward to a wonderful year of growth and learning together.

Laura Higgs and Claire Di Genni

Assistant Principals (Support Unit)

Preparing for School

Starting at a new school is an exciting milestone for both children and families! Whilst we understand that every student and family will have their own challenges and strategies for success below are some pointers that may help the transition a be a little smoother. To help your child feel confident and ready, try these tips:

• Establish a routine: Start practising regular bedtimes and morning routines to ease the transition.

• Foster independence: Encourage your child to dress themselves, use the toilet independently, and manage their own belongings, tailored to their abilities.

• Lunch Routine: Have students practice identifying their own lunch boxes and water bottle. Practice opening and closing containers and water bottles.

• Practice social skills: Arrange playdates or group activities to help your child feel comfortable interacting with others at their own pace.

• Talk about school positively: Share stories and talk about what to expect to create excitement and reduce anxiety.

• Visit the school together: If possible, take a tour or attend orientation days to familiarise your child with their new environment and the support unit setting.

• Work with the support team: Connect with your child’s teachers, therapists, and support staff to develop personalised strategies that meet your child’s unique needs.

• Encourage curiosity and learning: Engage in simple, enjoyable learning activities that build on your child’s strengths and interests.

• Use visual supports and social stories: These tools can help prepare your child for the school day and changes in routine. Below is a social story that you can read to your child daily to help them understand what to expect.

• Celebrate every achievement: Positive reinforcement helps build confidence and motivation.

Curriculum Information

In the support unit, the curriculum is adapted to meet the diverse learning needs of students who require additional assistance. Teaching is highly individualised, incorporating differentiated strategies, modified content, and personalised learning goals to ensure that every student can access the curriculum meaningfully. Educators use a combination of small group instruction, hands-on activities, and specialist resources to foster skill development, engagement, and confidence. Class programs are based on the NSW syllabus for the Australian Curriculum. Each student in the Support Unit works from an Individualised Education Plan. This means that they access the full curriculum and all topics in class are taught to each student in a manner that is both age and ability appropriate. Collaboration with therapists, families, and other support staff is integral to creating a holistic and inclusive learning environment that promotes both academic and social growth.