Education is a powerful tool for opportunity and independence. For students with disability, accessing inclusive, supportive education environments is essential to reaching their potential. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can play a vital role in supporting learning and participation at school—but many families are unsure how it works.
At APTOS, we guide families through the process of using NDIS supports to complement education, improve learning outcomes, and build confidence in students of all ages. In this guide, we explain what inclusive education means, what the NDIS can fund, and how to navigate supports alongside the school system.
What Is Inclusive Education?
Inclusive education means that students with disability learn in mainstream classrooms, alongside their peers, with the appropriate supports in place. It’s based on the idea that diversity enriches learning for everyone, and that all students have a right to equitable education access.
Inclusive education is supported by:
- Adjustments to curriculum and teaching methods
- Aids like assistive technology or personal support
- Collaboration between schools, families, and service providers
- A focus on student strengths, not just challenges
The goal is not just academic achievement, but also social inclusion, confidence, and lifelong learning.
How the NDIS Supports Education
The NDIS does not fund education itself (like teachers or school fees)—that’s the responsibility of the education system. However, it can fund disability-related supports that help students access and benefit from learning. These may include:
- Personal care support at school
- Specialist equipment or assistive technology
- Allied health therapies (e.g. OT, speech) to support school readiness
- Behavioural support or social skills programs
- Transport to and from school if public transport is not suitable
- Capacity-building supports to help transition to higher education or training
These supports must be linked to the child or young person’s disability and goals in their NDIS plan.
Common NDIS-Funded Supports for Students
1. Therapy to Build School Skills
- Occupational therapy to support handwriting, focus, and classroom skills
- Speech therapy for communication and social interaction
- Psychology for emotional regulation and behaviour support
2. Support Workers at School (in some cases)
If a student requires help with toileting, eating, or other personal care tasks during the school day, NDIS funding may be used. This is arranged in close coordination with the school.
3. Assistive Technology
- Communication devices
- Modified desks or chairs
- Software or apps that support learning and organisation
4. School Transport
If a child is unable to use standard public transport due to their disability, the NDIS may fund transport assistance.
5. Transitions and Post-School Support
- Support to prepare for further education or training
- Career planning and vocational assessments
- Skill-building for independence in higher education environments
What the NDIS Does Not Cover
It’s important to understand that the NDIS won’t fund:
- Curriculum adjustments or tutoring
- School staff, teachers, or classroom aides
- Buildings, facilities, or mainstream teaching resources
These are the responsibility of the education system. The NDIS only covers supports that are over and above what all students are entitled to.
Setting Education-Related Goals in Your NDIS Plan
Strong, clear goals help ensure your child receives appropriate supports. Examples include:
- “I want to build my communication skills so I can participate in class.”
- “I want help learning how to manage my school routine independently.”
- “I want to transition to university and study a course I enjoy.”
Your support coordinator can help you write goals that align with your child’s needs and highlight the link between disability supports and educational outcomes.
How Support Coordination Helps With Inclusive Education
APTOS support coordinators assist families by:
- Explaining how NDIS and education systems work together
- Identifying what supports are reasonable for NDIS to fund
- Helping gather reports and assessments from therapists and schools
- Coordinating with allied health professionals to support classroom participation
- Advocating during plan reviews to include relevant supports
We ensure the voice of the student and family is central in all planning.
Working With Schools and Therapists
Collaboration is key to successful outcomes. APTOS can help facilitate meetings between:
- Families and teachers
- Therapists and school staff
- Support workers and education coordinators
This ensures that all parties understand their roles and that supports are implemented smoothly.
Transitioning Beyond School
The transition from school to adulthood is a critical period. NDIS supports can help young people:
- Explore further education or vocational pathways
- Build job readiness skills
- Learn to navigate public transport or community settings independently
Support coordination ensures this transition is well-planned, empowering, and tailored to the individual’s goals.
Why Inclusive Education Matters
When children and young people with disability are included in education, the benefits are far-reaching:
- Stronger academic and social outcomes
- Greater confidence and independence
- Better post-school opportunities
- A more inclusive and accepting society
Inclusive education sets the foundation for lifelong learning and participation.
Why Choose APTOS?
APTOS is a trusted, person-centred provider with experience supporting NDIS participants across all ages. We offer:
- Experienced support coordination focused on education and youth goals
- Strong relationships with allied health and education providers
- A compassionate, family-focused approach
- Practical help with navigating systems and securing funding
Final Thoughts
Inclusive education is not just a right—it’s a key step toward a meaningful life. With the right NDIS supports in place, children and young people with disability can thrive in learning environments and pursue their goals with confidence.
Want to understand how NDIS can support your child’s education? Contact APTOS today for expert, compassionate guidance.
