Choosing the Right Disability Support School in Western Australia
- Care Connect Coordination
- May 20
- 3 min read
Finding the right school for a child with disability or additional learning needs can feel overwhelming. Every child learns differently, and families often want a school environment where their child feels safe, understood, supported, and included.
In Western Australia, families have access to a range of public education support options including education support schools, education support centres, and education support programs. The WA Department of Education’s Schools Online directory is one of the best tools for exploring these options and comparing schools across the state.
Understanding the Different Types of Disability Support Schools
The WA Department of Education provides several types of specialist support settings for students with disability.
Education Support Schools
Education support schools are standalone schools specifically designed for students with disability and high support needs. These schools provide highly individualised learning programs and specialist facilities that may include:
Therapy rooms
Multi-sensory learning environments
Accessible playgrounds
Independent living areas
Hydrotherapy pools
These schools are staffed by specialist teachers and allied health professionals who work closely with families to support each child’s educational and personal development.
Education Support Centres
Education support centres are located on the same site as mainstream schools. They provide specialist teaching and tailored learning programs while also giving students opportunities to participate in shared school activities and social experiences with peers.
Education Support Programs
Education support programs operate within mainstream schools. Students are enrolled in the school itself while receiving additional support from specialist education staff. These programs can be ideal for students who benefit from inclusion within a mainstream environment while still requiring targeted assistance.
How to Search for Disability Support Schools in WA
The WA Department of Education has made it easier for families to search for suitable schools using the Schools Online advanced search tool.
You can access the tool here:
The website allows families to:
Search by suburb or region
Locate schools with education support programs
Search within a set distance from your home
Compare local schooling options
View school details and enrolment information
According to the Department of Education, families can search for education support options by:
Opening Schools Online
Selecting “Advanced Search”
Ticking “Schools with education support programs”
Choosing an education region or locality
Clicking search to view available options nearby
What Families Should Consider When Choosing a
School
Every child has different strengths, challenges, and support needs. When exploring disability support schools, families may wish to consider:
Learning Environment
Some children thrive in smaller specialist settings, while others benefit from mainstream inclusion with additional support.
Communication and Collaboration
Look for schools that actively communicate with families and involve parents or carers in planning and goal setting.
Therapy and Allied Health Access
Some schools may allow external therapists on-site or have close partnerships with allied health providers.
Student Support Levels
Ask about:
Education Assistant availability
Classroom sizes
Behaviour support approaches
Individual learning plans
Transition planning
Social and Emotional Wellbeing
A supportive school culture can make a significant difference to a child’s confidence, friendships, and emotional wellbeing.
Important Questions to Ask During School Visits
When visiting potential schools, it can help to ask:
How does the school support students with my child’s needs?
What experience do staff have with disability support?
How are individual goals developed and reviewed?
What inclusion opportunities are available?
How does the school manage transitions and emotional regulation?
What communication systems are used with families?
School visits can also help families observe classroom environments, accessibility, sensory considerations, and the overall school culture.
Support Beyond the Classroom
Many families also work alongside NDIS providers, therapists, support coordinators, and positive behaviour support practitioners to help children succeed both at school and at home.
Strong collaboration between schools, families, and external supports often leads to better long-term outcomes for students.
Choosing the right disability support school is an important decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best school is one where your child feels supported, valued, safe, and able to learn in a way that suits their individual needs.
The WA Schools Online directory is an excellent starting point for families exploring education support options across Western Australia.
You can begin your search here:
For more information about education support schools, centres, and programs:
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