The Sydney Swans have teamed up with the awesome team at Down Syndrome NSW to make a positive impact to people with Down syndrome and their families.
The club joined forces with Down Syndrome NSW in 2021 as part of the Swans’ Diversity Action Plan and as part of the partnership work together to deliver on our commitment to make the club more accessible and to raise awareness and funds, to assist their important work.
In recognition of World Down Syndrome Day this week (Thursday, March 21), we will be sharing stories from some of our Down Syndrome NSW families share their stories about their journeys and the impact the organisation has had on their family.
Read the below story on Ben and his experience of Inclusive Eduction and find out more how you can support Down Syndrome NSW's Lots of Socks campaign to raise vital funds.
Ben’s story – Inclusive Education
Ben’s experience of Inclusive Education in high school has been a work in progress, with a combination of one-on-one classes in learning support and engaging in mainstream for music, drama, assembly, house and mentor groups and swimming.
Now in Year 9, Ben has chosen music and drama for his electives and loves these subjects. He is fortunate to train at the amazing pool the school has and use their gym with his physio. The teachers in learning support are very dedicated, caring and patient – ensuring Ben is best positioned for an enjoyable and meaningful school experience.
Although very social and active outside of school, forming meaningful school friendships can still have its challenges. However, Ben is highly involved in his wider community and has a range of interests that he enjoys. His school community has been caring and willing to look out for him, checking in on how he’s going and appreciating the efforts he’s making. Ben feels included in school sporting competitions in swimming and his teachers are happy to modify camps and excursions if needed so he doesn’t miss out.
For Ben’s parents, a core component of Inclusive Education has involved collaboration and openness with his school. Since Ben started High School, his school has been part of planning meetings with Ben’s parents and therapists to help determine his goals each term, making adjustments to the curriculum and providing support where required. They welcome input, observations and visits from specialists, willing to adapt to suit Ben’s needs.
For young people like Ben, Down Syndrome NSW is dedicated to providing ongoing support and resources to support families and schools, while ensuring the best outcomes for the student.
Our Inclusive Education Initiative is Primary and Secondary support program for mainstream and special schools aimed at building capacity of schoolteachers, principals, SLSO’s as well as connecting key stakeholders of family, therapists and behavior support, with the student firmly at the center.
“Down Syndrome NSW has been a great support and resource since Ben’s birth from Welcome Packs, the parent line, information webinars, raising the profile and value of people with DS, and offering Ben some paid work to assist at an event now he’s a teenager.” - Ben’s mum
