An innovative and inclusive teaching style has landed in Geelong — and it’s getting top marks from teachers and students.
Armstrong Creek School opened its gates in February, with a new approach to collaborative learning that combines primary and special school elements.
Principal Evan Savage has been teaching his whole working life and believes combining mainstream and special education students in a collaborative learning environment is the way of the future.
“We offer a range of programs and opportunities that enable all students of all abilities and backgrounds to achieve success,” he said.
Prep teacher Stephanie Taylor worked at a mainstream school prior to Armstrong Creek, and believes the inclusive teaching style develops the children’s emotional intelligence and prepares them for the real world.
“The kids see a diverse range of children and learn that everyone has different abilities, and that it’s okay to be different,” she said.
Results from the Student Attitudes to School Survey found that 82 per cent of students at the school felt included, and 100 per cent feel that it’s okay to be different.
“The kids learn to work together and accept each other.
“They have common goals and they’re very good at learning collaboratively,” she said.
The school sits at the entrance to the Warralily housing development, which is one of Geelong’s fastest growing suburbs.
The campus was designed with the community in mind, with sporting complexes and function rooms available for public use.
Unique features of the school include sensory gardens, multi-purpose and flexible learning spaces and therapy rooms to cater for the wide range of students.
The school was constructed as part of the $291 million New Schools Public Private Partnership Project, which is creating 15 new schools across regional and metropolitan Victoria.
(Feature image: Exterior of the Armstrong Creek School. Photo: Louisa Cheatley, 19 Sept 2018)
