Helping Your Child Thrive: NDIS and School Supports Explained

Published at 20-06-2025 13:30:00

Navigating school life can be challenging for children with disabilities — and for their families too. The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) offers valuable supports that can complement a child’s education journey. While the NDIS doesn’t fund general education services (which are the responsibility of the school system), it can provide funding for disability-related supports that help your child fully participate in school life.

Here’s what you need to know.

What School Supports Can the NDIS Fund?

The NDIS can fund reasonable and necessary supports that directly relate to a child’s disability and help them access learning or participate in the classroom. These might include:

• Allied health therapies (such as speech therapy, occupational therapy or psychology) to help with communication, motor skills, or social-emotional development
• Assistive technology, like communication devices or modified seating
• Support workers to assist with personal care at school (e.g. toileting, feeding)
• Social skills programs that complement your child’s ability to engage with peers
• Transport assistance to and from school, if public or private options aren’t accessible
• Behaviour support plans if your child requires help managing behaviours at school

What the NDIS Doesn’t Fund at School

There is often confusion around who funds what — so it's helpful to know that mainstream education responsibilities remain with the school or education department. The NDIS generally won’t cover:

• Teacher’s aides or learning support staff
• Educational curriculum or tutoring
• School enrolment fees or uniforms
• Adjustments that schools are expected to make under the Disability Standards for Education (e.g. ramps, seating arrangements)

How Can You Request These Supports?

When preparing for your child’s NDIS planning or review meeting, make sure you bring:

• School reports or letters from teachers
• Therapy reports showing how supports relate to education outcomes
• A clear outline of what your child needs to succeed at school

It’s also helpful to include goals in your NDIS plan that mention school participation or learning development (e.g. “to improve communication for classroom participation”).

Working Together: NDIS, Schools and Families

Collaboration is key. While the NDIS and the school system operate separately, they should work together to support your child. With your consent, your NDIS team can liaise with your child’s school and therapists to coordinate the most effective supports.

Remember, you are your child’s strongest advocate. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re not sure what support is available, don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Still Unsure?

Understanding what’s in and out of scope can be tricky, especially when it comes to your child’s education. If you’re unsure what you can request, your NDIS planner, Local Area Coordinator, or Plan Manager can help guide you through it.

If you want to chat, feel free to reach out to us and one of our friendly team members will be happy to help!

📞 Call 1300 217 037 or

📧 Email info@justplanmanagers.com.au