The Peter Moyes Centre (PMC) provides a service to students with a range of disabilities which vary in the level of support needed from low to high. These include Severe Language impairment, Autism, Down Syndrome, Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities. There are approximately ten students full time currently in the secondary unit. Numbers within the unit vary from year to year.

The PMC is an integral part of the Christ Church community and provides a secure, caring environment for students who would have difficulty coping with the regular curriculum. Wherever possible and following consultation with parents and teachers, students are integrated in mainstream classes with their peers and the curriculum is adjusted to meet their needs. A teacher assistant accompanies boys to integrated classes if they are unable to manage without support. Goals of integration can be social, emotional and academic so it is only considered where at least one is likely to be met and the experience will be successful for all. Students participate in general school activities such as tutorials, sport, Chapel and camps.

Individual Education Plans

Each student in the PMC has an individualised programme based on educational needs. Parents are encouraged to work collaboratively to develop the plans during team meetings twice a year and informally throughout the school year. Goals could be based on literacy, numeracy, behaviour, social skills, independent living skills, speech and language, communication, fine or gross motor skills, physical or personal management.

The Senior School PMC aims to prepare students for life after school so goals tend to focus on literacy, numeracy, living skills, work experience, leisure activities, travel training, TAFE and community courses. Students are integrated in appropriate classes. Staff work with parents to develop the independence and confidence of the boys. For some the goal will be to gain employment. For others it will be to make choices and communicate needs.

Enrolment

When completing the application form parents should notify the school if there is any chance that their child may require support in the PMC unit at some stage. Psychological, medical, therapy and educational reports from professionals who have assessed or supported the student should be attached to the forms. The Co-ordinator of the Peter Moyes Centre will contact parents to discuss their child’s strengths and future needs.

Sometimes it is not possible to ascertain that a student will definitely need support. Parents should notify the School if there is a possibility so that progress can be monitored and an accurate assessment can be made before enrolment. Some students commence school in regular classes but may require the support of the PMC during their education at a later stage. Parents, School Counsellors and staff can request this course if a place is available.

Contact

Senior School PMC Co-ordinator
Mrs Renee Whitcher BEd(ECU)
Phone: 9442 1601