Learning Diversity 

Learning Diversity Services Provided at SJV 

At SJV, we take great pride in our extensive Learning Diversity Team, which plays a vital role in supporting the diverse needs of our students. Our team includes three intervention teachers, 17 Learning Support Officers, and a Speech Pathologist (Tues & Thurs).

Support is provided based on individual student needs. The Learning Diversity Team closely monitors student progress through data analysis and delivers targeted teaching to those with the highest need. Generally, the school provides only one formal intervention at a time to ensure focused and effective support. If you have any queries about your child’s progress, please speak first with your classroom teacher. If needed, they may make an internal referral to the Learning Diversity Team, who will then work in partnership with families to explore what further tests or supports may be needed.

In addition to our internal team, we also welcome external specialists to support our students:

• Psychologist: Jeff Edmonds visits our school on Monday to work with selected students. Sessions can be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Medicare (via a Mental Health Care Plan), or private funding.
• Occupational Therapist: Kelly Wilks, visits our school on a Wednesday and is  employed through Kids Connect. She also works with some of our students. Her services can be accessed privately or through NDIS funding.
• Allied Health Professionals: Many students receive support from NDIS-funded allied health professionals on-site. Having these specialists visit SJV enhances collaboration with the school and provides added convenience for families. However, it is important to ensure that any bookings are made through the school by emailing the Learning Diversity Leader, Jonathan Rooney. If bookings are not made through the school, the allied professional will be turned away, with any costs incurred being the responsibility of the family.

While these external professionals operate within our school, it is important to note that they are employed by the parents and are ultimately accountable to them.

In addition to the above, SJV also accesses a range of specialist services through Melbourne Archdioceses Catholic Schools (MACS). These include cognitive assessments administered by a psychologist, language assessments advice administered by a speech pathologist, student behavioural consultants and consultants for students with physical impairments such as hard of hearing. These services are referred to MACS by the Learning Diversity Leader for eligible students who meet specific criteria.

At SJV, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s progress, please speak with your classroom teacher, who can guide you through the next steps if further support is needed.

Jonathan Rooney 

Learning Diversity Leader 

jrooney@sjvmulgrave.catholic.edu.au