At Kurri Kurri High School, the support unit is known as Kuta-kaya – A Wonnarua word meaning “Think strong, able and powerful”.
Kuta-Kaya is an integral and highly valued component of the wider school community. We have mixed ability classes that provide education through specialist and intensive support for eligible students with a diagnosed intellectual or physical disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mental health diagnosis, sensory processing disorder, behaviour disorders or complex learning needs.
All students in Kuta-kaya are provided with the opportunity to focus on developing the skills and knowledge to be an inclusive and valuable member of the whole school community. They have the same opportunity as all students to participate in the schools and community activities, such as school sports, excursions, work experience, TAFE, interest subjects, leadership, presentations and assemblies.
YEARS 7 - 10
Learning areas include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- History
- Geography
- PDHPE
- Visual Arts
- Technology Mandatory
- Auslan
Additionally, students have the opportunity to access various elective subjects within the mainstream environment. The decision to enrol in these electives is made collaboratively, involving the student, Kuta-kaya teachers, parents or carers, and mainstream Head Teachers as part of the Individualised Education Plan (IEP).
YEARS 11 & 12
In Year 11 and 12, our focus is on developing students' interests, independence, knowledge, and skills for life after school. Students are encouraged to explore mainstream courses that align with their interests, in addition to the subjects offered at Kuta-kaya.
Our staff work closely with students and families to facilitate a smooth transition to post-school life, collaborating with external services to enable students to begin attending relevant programs during school hours.
This inclusive model effectively prepares students for their future pathways—whether that be further education, vocational training, or employment—by aligning with their individual goals and aspirations.
FACULTY GOALS
In Kuta-kaya we are committed to ensuring a focused and unified approach to supporting our students' diverse needs. Our faculty goals serve as a guiding framework that helps us create an inclusive, nurturing environment where every student can thrive and reflect our commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience that promotes the success and well-being of all students in our care.
- Individualised Support: We are committed to developing and implementing tailored support plans for each student, addressing their unique needs, abilities, and learning styles to promote both academic success and personal growth.
- Inclusive Environment: Our classrooms foster an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels valued and respected. We embrace diverse abilities and backgrounds through differentiated instruction and appropriate accommodations.
- Collaboration with Families: We believe in building strong partnerships with families by encouraging open communication and collaborative efforts, which support each student's holistic development and well-being.
- Transition Support: We facilitate smooth transitions for students as they progress through different educational stages or prepare for life beyond school, equipping them with essential skills and the confidence needed for future challenges.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Our faculty uses student data effectively to inform instructional strategies and interventions, ensuring that each student receives targeted support for continuous academic and personal progress.
- Social and Emotional Development: We promote social and emotional learning, helping students build relationships, develop self-regulation skills, and enhance their overall well-being.
- Empowerment and Independence: We aim to empower students by encouraging the development of independence and self-advocacy skills, enabling them to confidently navigate their educational and personal journeys.
Our goals reflect our commitment to creating a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes the success and well-being of all students in our unit.
Faculty Achievements:
Most of students access school to work services before leaving school, therefore the opportunity for further training and employment is increased for all our students.
