Making Adjustments and Accommodations in the Classroom for Students with Special Needs
Every child deserves a learning environment where they feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. For students with additional needs, small adjustments can make a huge difference in helping them access learning and participate alongside their peers. These don’t always have to be big or complicated — sometimes it’s the simple strategies that are the most effective.
Here are some practical classroom accommodations you might consider:
1. Supporting Transitions
Transitions can be tricky for many students. Giving structure and predictability helps reduce anxiety.
Use timers (visual or auditory) to give clear countdowns before transitions.
Offer warnings and visual cards so students know what’s coming next.
Try a timer in the window to show how much playtime is left before coming inside.
2. Seating and Environment
The physical environment plays a big role in focus and behaviour.
Seat students strategically, with their back to distractions.
Consider facing them toward a wall or away from peers to minimise overstimulation.
Provide noise-cancelling headphones to help with background noise.
Create a quiet corner where students can access calming tools like sensory toys or books.
3. Additional Supports
Sometimes extra adult support is needed.
Apply for IFS funding to access a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) who can step in when a student is feeling overwhelmed.
Encourage “check-in partners” — short connections with a staff member in the morning and after breaks to reset and support regulation.
4. Collaboration is Key
No one works in isolation. A team approach makes adjustments consistent and effective.
Communicate regularly with parents and carers.
Engage with therapists to align strategies across settings.
Set shared, realistic goals that everyone works towards together.
5. Individualised Planning
Every child is unique, and so should their plan.
Create an Individual Education Plan (IEP) with personalised goals.
Reach out to your school counsellor, Learning and Support Team or Assistant Principal Learning and Support for guidance and advice.
Keep these goals practical, achievable, and focused on the student’s strengths.
Making adjustments isn’t about lowering expectations — it’s about removing barriers so every child has the chance to succeed. Start small, keep strategies consistent, and remember that collaboration with families and specialists is your greatest tool.
