Parents & Caregivers
School History
The school commenced at the beginning of 1986 when the Department arranged for the use of a house at Anne Street, growing out of classes based at Lincoln South Primary School and the Port Lincoln High School, which were supported by the Special Education Unit. We started with an enrolment of 12 students, one classroom and lots of enthusiasm.
- In 1991, three curriculum groups were established and extra classroom space at Lincoln Gardens was also acquired.
- 1998 saw the long-awaited redevelopment of the school. The administration and classroom areas were brought together and the original classroom became a library/resource unit.
- In late 2000, due to safety issues, Anne Street students were relocated to the main site at Barley Road
- In 2001 permission was given for future redevelopments. These occurred in 2002, with a purpose-built unit and decked area established.
- During 2003 a roof was built over the decked area and minor alterations made to other areas of the school.
- 2004 saw the completion of a new entrance road into the school.
- Between 2005 and 2008 the play areas were further developed and the decked area was enclosed to provide a safe outdoor space for students to access gross motor activities independently.
- National School Pride funding was used in 2009 to develop a soft fall basketball area to further develop gross motor and social skills.
- The Federal government Building Education Revolution in 2009-2010, resulted in a single classroom being added to the site.
- Additional play equipment was added between 2016 and 2018 to enhance access to sensory regulation opportunities and the school was nominated for an Autism SA Recognition Award for Excellence in Education Support.
- In 2021 the school community worked with Wax Design and Elton’s Landscapes to build a new Nature Play space that was inclusive of all students. Lincoln Gardens’ Governing Council agreed to provide some additional land so that a bike track could be included
- A purpose-built Annex classroom at PLHS was completed ready for 2022. Plans for our secondary students to increase their access to relevant and meaningful curriculum opportunities commenced and all students began using the space in 2023
School Times
Yard supervision is provided from 8.30am with the first learning session starting at 8:45am. Taxis arrive at 8.45am.
School finishes at 3.00pm after which staff are available for meetings with parents, teacher consultants and specialist agencies.
Office hours are between 8.30am – 4.00pm.
Attendance
- If a student misses school, we record their absence. We also record the reason given by the parent or carer.
- If we receive no reason, we follow up with the parent or carer. This is usually by phone or text (SMS).
- If the absences continue or there are concerns raised by the absence, we keep following up. This might be by phone, email, meeting or a letter.
- We support the family to look at any issues that stop the student from going to school.
- If needed, we connect the family to other services. For example, student support services.
Please refer to the school’s Attendance Improvement Plan for more information Port Lincoln Special School – Attendance improvement plan 2021 (education.sa.gov.au)
Online Payments
The materials and services fee covers the supply of stationery, art/craft materials, school equipment, grounds and library fees. Families may be eligible for financial assistance via the School Card scheme. The application process is online but please call our Finance Officer on 86825319 if you have any questions.
An account for additional fees comes out at the end of each term for:
- The swimming program to cover pool entry.
- Some class groups are also involved in cooking sessions once a week and a minimum charge is set to cover costs.
All fees can be paid for online. Please contact the school for account details if needed.
It is recommended that parents or carers contact Centrelink before their child’s 16th birthday to see if they qualify for further financial assistance.
Transport Assistance
The department has registered as a service provider of transport under the NDIS. Forms to access transport assistance can be obtained through the front office.
Communication
The school provides a fortnightly newsletter and runs a Facebook page to ensure communication with families and the community is regular and relevant. Please make sure the school has your current email address and that you follow the Facebook page.
The main form of communication between teachers and families about learning programs and wellbeing is via the Seesaw App. Please contact your child’s teacher or the school for assistance to get this set up for you.
Non Department Service Providers
Many families access therapists and other supports through the NDIS. If there is a need for service providers to assist your child during school hours, please speak to your child’s teacher to ensure all legal requirements can be met and suitable arrangements made.
Governing Council
The Port Lincoln Special School Governing Council is the guiding body for the school. Parents and community members are urged to join, learn about our school and have a say in its development. Meetings are held twice a term and an AGM held each year to elect members in line with the school’s Constitution. All parents are welcome to attend any council meeting and are strongly encouraged to nominate for membership to ensure the school moves forward in line with the needs of students, families and the community.
Complaints
- If you have a concern, you should talk with a teacher or the person who made a decision that has affected you in the first instance.
- If you are still unhappy after getting an initial response, you should contact a leadership member i.e., the Principal or Coordinator.
- If you still feel the matter is not resolved, please contact the Customer Feedback unit (CFU) on 1800 677 435 to speak with a customer service officer.
- If the CFU is unable to resolve your concern, you can contact the Ombudsman of SA.
