Glossary

The national school census is required under the Australian Education Act 2013. Data from this census is used to calculate school funding, to inform education policy and programs and for statistical reporting, including the National Schools Statistics Collection.

The principal may identify and nominate a school team to drive the NCCD process. 

The school team is generally a team of staff in the school or supporting the school; it may include teachers with specific experience or qualifications in disability studies, but this is not mandatory. In some regional, rural and remote schools that have a very small staff, the school team could consist of one person, the principal.

The school team is responsible to the principal, who is ultimately responsible for endorsing the NCCD.

The school team provides a mechanism for the coordination of teaching and learning and embedding support for learning into the culture and practice of the school. It plays a role in supporting teachers in identifying and responding to the additional learning needs of students, in leading and supporting professional development for staff, and in supporting high expectations for every student, including those students who require adjustments to their learning. The school team supports collaborative partnerships between the school, parents/carers, other professionals and the wider school community.

A school that is, or is likely to be, recognised by the state or territory minister for the school as a special assistance school, and primarily caters for students with social, emotional or behavioural difficulties.

A school that is, or is likely to be, recognised by the state or territory minister for the school as a special school, and provides education under special programs, or special activities, designed specifically for students with disability.

Equipment that supports the participation of students with disability. For example, text-to-speech software, speech-generating devices and devices for physical activities.

Professional services that support the participation of students with disability. For example, speech pathology, psychology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and social work.

A student who meets the requirements to be counted in the NCCD for a school.

The funding loading provided for students with disability.

Staff who work to support the participation of people with disability. For example, specialist teachers, educational consultants, interpreters, note-takers and education assistants (teacher aides, teacher assistants, school learning support).