Thanks to the hard work of teachers, principals and the NSW Teachers Federation (NSWTF), seven schools across the state now have additional support classes for special needs students.
The additional classes were provided by the Department of Education and Training (DET) following a meeting on the issue involving various school leaders across the state.
After a motion was passed by the Fairfield Teachers Association (FTA) unanimously, a letter was sent to NSW Education Minister, Adrian Piccoli, demanding that special needs students “get access to settings that meet their educational needs”.
By the end of the 2014, three additional support classes were created at Prairievale Public School, two at St Johns Park and Bonnyrigg public schools, and one at Cabramatta, Cabramatta West, Horsley Park and Merrylands public schools for 2015.
NSWTF’s Multicultural Officer and Organiser, Amber Flohm, said that the victory was achieved as a result of the hard work and unity both within the education sector and the community.
"This is a great example of how our union, principals, teachers, students and community can continually work together to achieve excellent results for public education," Flohm said.
"As a result of Federation intervention and the successful outcome for students in Fairfield, the union understands about 10 additional support classes have also been set up in the Campbelltown area to meet the needs of local students with special needs there."
The need for the support classes had highlighted the importance of Gonski funding in schools where resources for students with special needs are lacking.
On November 27 last year, teachers from Cabramatta electorate schools in Fairfiel met with their local MP, Nick Lalich, who reiterated his support for a full six years of Gonski funding.