Inclusive Education in Action: Hope’s Joyful Start to School at St Monica’s
Starting school is a big milestone for every child – and for Hope and her family, 2025 brought a joyful beginning to her learning journey at St Monica’s Primary School in Richmond. Thanks to the school’s deep commitment to inclusion and its active participation in the Down Syndrome NSW Schools Program, Hope has been embraced from day one.
St Monica’s has shown exceptional dedication to inclusive education. The school has engaged fully with the DSNSW Schools Program, attending every professional learning workshop we've delivered. Led by our Education Manager, Alison Maunder, these workshops are designed to equip educators with practical tools, strategies, and confidence to support students with Down syndrome in everyday classroom settings.
The result? A school that was prepared and excited to welcome Hope into their community – not just as a student, but as a valued and included member of the class.
Hope’s mum, Heidi, says the experience has been overwhelmingly positive. "The school has been exceptionally inclusive and supportive," she shares. "We’ve felt genuinely welcomed as part of the school community. Hope is happy, thriving, and embraced by her peers."
The students at St Monica’s have also played a key role in creating an inclusive culture. Their warmth and acceptance highlight the power of inclusive education to shape empathetic, respectful, and collaborative learning environments – where every child can feel they belong.
This is a shining example of what’s possible when schools are equipped and empowered to support diverse learners. The DSNSW Schools Program continues to work closely with educators across NSW to promote inclusion, build teacher confidence, and ensure students with Down syndrome can access the same opportunities to learn, grow, and flourish as their peers.
How We Support Inclusive Education in NSW
At Down Syndrome NSW, our Inclusive Education Program helps schools build the knowledge, tools, and confidence to support students with Down syndrome from preschool through to high school. Led by Education Manager Alison Maunder, we provide tailored workshops, expert advice, and practical classroom strategies that lead to real results – inclusive classrooms where every child can thrive.
If you're a teacher, school leader, support staff member or parent interested in creating more inclusive learning environments, we’d love to work with you.
📩 Contact us at admin@downsyndromensw.org.au to learn more about our Schools Program and how we can support your school.
