Victoria special assistance schools face surging enrolments

Enrolment in Victoria’s special assistance schools is rising rapidly as students disengaged from mainstream education seek alternative learning environments. In the independent sector, student numbers grew from 502 a decade ago to 4,726 last year, with 54 campuses now operating across the state.

These institutions serve students who do not fit the mainstream system, distinct from schools catering to physical or intellectual disabilities. While the sector is expanding, principals report significant challenges including soaring waitlists and funding uncertainty. For example, Berry Street School’s Narre Warren campus currently maintains a waitlist of more than 100 students.

Special assistance schools often provide a reduced curriculum to help students transition back to full-time education. While the Victorian government offers short-term options like flexible learning schools and navigator programs, the rapid growth of these specialized providers highlights a gap in the mainstream inclusive education model.