At Riverview, we aim to promote and support the values and principles of inclusive education. In doing so we place emphasis on celebrating difference and diversity and see this as a core component in our approach to teaching and learning in the faculty. The team supports a collaborative approach to learning and curriculum design, working closely with external professionals to support the needs of all students.  

CURA PERSONALIS

Situated in St Michael’s House, immediately adjacent to the Dalton Chapel, The Centre for Teaching and Learning Support fills a unique yet highly diverse role in the life of Saint Ignatius College, Riverview.

The goal of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support is to create a learning environment in which students with a wide range of learning challenges can progress at their own rate, experience success, reach their potential and feel a real sense of belonging in our school community.

The cura personalis – care of the individual – is a cornerstone of Ignatian pedagogy.

The cura personalis manifests itself through The Centre for Teaching and Learning Support as classroom teachers are assisted in differentiating curricula and providing effective delivery to students with special needs.

SPECIALIST STAFF

Learning Support Teachers are strategically placed in:

• Year 5 and 6 (Ms Julia Burfitt)
• Year 7 (Mr George Cassar)
• Year 8 (Ms Susan Addinall)
• Year 9 (Mr Dominic Wilkinson)
• Year 10 (Mr Aaron Hooper)
• Year 11 and 12 (Mr Paul Bevis)

To view contact details for Curriculum Support, please click here. 

English Language Support is available for students in Years 7 to 12.

The Careers Counsellor (02 9882 8325) is available for all students to discuss:

• Post HSC options in relation to tertiary study
• Scholarships and employment
• Subject selections relating to career aspirations
• Career counseling

A variety of additional specialist services may also be accessed through the Centre.  Such services include those of occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychologists and access to literacy and numeracy centres.

In addition, the Centre maintains valuable links with the Royal Institute for the Deaf and Blind, and with a number of university faculties.

WHAT WE DO

The Centre for Teaching and Learning Support encourages students, in their learning, in a variety of areas.
Specifically: 

• Special Education programs
• Advanced Learner programs
• Careers
• TAFE Courses  
• English Language support for overseas students

The Centre co-ordinates student testing related to applications to the Board of Studies, for special provisions for students with learning difficulties.

Such special provisions may include a grant of extra time, or approval of a reader or writer to assist the examination candidate.

REFERRAL

Students may be referred to the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support by their parents or teachers, or where school-based or independent testing indicates a need for targeted support.

As prospective parents you are welcome to discuss your son’s needs with the Head of Centre, or any of the specialist teachers, prior to enrolment or at any time after commencement at Riverview.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

Parent volunteers are integral to the work of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support and their involvement is warmly welcomed.

Parents assist with one-on-one learning situations, or as invigilators, readers or writers with the Special Provisions Program which takes place during the Higher School Certificate, School Certificate and internal examinations.