“Documented Plans” is an umbrella term used to describe a range of ways of catering for the educational needs of individual or smaller groups of students with identified needs.
A documented plan is primarily a teaching and learning planning document. The documented plan identifies short to medium educational outcomes.
The starting point for consideration of any individualisation of the education program is the Teacher’s whole-of-class program.
A Teacher will use their professional judgement to evaluate which parts of their current whole-of-class program facilitate teaching and learning for students with particular needs before planning and implementing something different for an individual student or small groups.
The purpose of this framework is to provide clarity for Teachers developing documented plans. The framework is supported by complementary guidelines. It is anticipated that the school, supported by school psychologists and state-wide services, will guide decision-making in relation to identified issues.
01 Documented plans are student centred. They focus on students’ strengths and educational needs and build on current knowledge and skills.
02 A documented plan must be realistic, practical and readily understood by Teachers, support staff and parents.
03 Documented plans may take a variety of forms, including Individual Education Plans (IEP), Individual Behaviour Plans (IBP), Individual Transition Plans (ITP) and Risk Management Plans (RMP). A documented plan may apply to an individual or a small group with similar educational needs.
04 Many students with a special need or learning difficulty do not require a detailed documented plan. Simpler versions of documented plans will often suffice in mainstream classes for individuals and smaller groups.
05 Documented plans accompany the student to other educational settings.
06 The documented plan will be developed by the Teacher. Consultation will occur with parents, other staff, service providers and where possible students, as appropriate.
07 A documented plan is a record of education plans in relation to a student or a group of students. Adjustments in the documented plan should be reviewed periodically and based on data gathered.
08 The documented plan needs to be kept as simple as possible. While addressing the needs of the student(s), due consideration is given to teacher workload.
09 Timelines and review dates are set wherever possible and roles and responsibilities designated.
10 Occupational safety and health issues should be considered and where relevant should be identified in the documented plan.