Differentiation

Grahamvale Primary School uses a comprehensive whole-school tiered approach to differentiated teaching and learning for every student across all areas of the curriculum. Differentiation benefits all students across the learning continuum, including students who are below the level of their peers, those ahead of year level expectations and students who are highly able.

All students receive instruction within an evidence-based, scientifically researched program. Differentiated planning is implemented with a high degree of integrity by our dedicated and caring teachers. Teachers draw upon a range of data sources to plan well-scaffolded learning pathways and to identify gaps in knowledge and skills that can be used for learning intervention.

We use a multi-tiered approach to the early identification and support of students with learning and behaviour needs.

• Tier 1 begins with universal high-quality classroom instruction, screening and strategy group interventions delivered and available for every student in the class.
• Tier 2 targeted interventions that are delivered to small groups, for a specific purpose, over a defined period of time.
• Tier 3 intensive interventions that are delivered to a smaller group, over an extended period of time.
• Tier 4 intensive interventions delivered 1:1, usually for the entire length of schooling.

If at any stage data indicates that further support is required, students will move to the next tier in our response to the intervention. Each tier supports the needs of the students through small group and individual instruction, as appropriate. This is facilitated by Classroom Teachers, Education Support Staff, Enrichment Team or specialised professionals.