Merrimac State High School enjoys the reputation of maintaining a supportive teaching and learning environment. Our school community is both enriched and challenged by the diversity which exists within its population and it is within this context that we endeavour to assist all students in achieving their full potential. Learning support is given to students with learning difficulties so as to address the individual needs of students.
Students who have been identified as experiencing difficulties from their previous year of education and have undergone an assessment process at the beginning of the year may receive learning support, known as tutorial classes, in literacy and numeracy, as well as intervention in regular classes.
In addition to the support provided to students by class teachers in the normal course of teaching and learning activities, specially appointed teachers will be engaged in supporting students with literacy and numeracy needs. This may be the major focus of a teacher’s professional responsibilities or, something he or she has chosen to do as an adjunct to teaching regular classes.
We try to enhance our students’ access to the curriculum through a blend of in-class support, small group tutorials and one on one specialised programmes when the need arises. Participation is the key principle underpinning our educational practices programs and students are given multiple opportunities through tutorials to achieve success in mainstream classes. Students who have engaged in tutorials have the opportunity to build their foundation knowledge and to consolidate classroom learning.
Learning support staff collaborate with class teachers in the design and implementation of literacy and numeracy programs. They also aim to be creative in providing consistent, relevant support to students within a flexible structure. In doing so we hope to reflect the value placed by the school on all its students and the pride we share in their achievements.