Echuca Specialist School in High Street, Echuca, provides specialist education for 64 children aged 5 – 18 years. Students have intellectual and associated disabilities. Students travel by bus from a wide area bounded by Cohuna, Kyabram, Rochester and rural N.S.W. Twelve qualified teachers and 16 aides, all who have extensive experience in special education, presently staff the school.

The school was originally the junior section of Tehan House Day Training Centre until 1991, when it became a Special Developmental School within the Directorate of School Education. Since January 1997, the school has become a dual mode setting and has changed its’ name to Echuca Specialist School. This means that the school now enrols students with mild through to severe intellectual disabilities. Rented accommodation consists of 9 classrooms, a domestic science wing/ staffroom, and an administration building, set in pleasant grounds.
Outdoor areas are being continually upgraded to provide playground areas for an ever increasing student population. Grassed areas and wide, paved verandas create safe recreation areas around the school. Students are engaged in an ongoing gardening program, which has enhanced the grounds.

The basis of our schools’ philosophy is the belief that all children can learn and have a right to be taught by the most suitable teaching methods, in a safe, happy, supportive atmosphere which provides the opportunity to reach their social, academic and physical potential.

Close contact is maintained between staff, families, carers, volunteers and workers from other agencies such as Community Residential Unit staff, Outreach workers, and mainstream Primary and Secondary schools where some students participate in an integrated program. We believe that programs are more effective when applied consistently in all settings.

The school provides a practical curriculum, based on the Victorian Essential Learning Standards and designed to meet individual needs and abilities. The curriculum concentrates on developing practical skills to encourage student independence.
Students with very high needs are catered for in a sensory/ therapy room.
Access to physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and psychologist services is provided to all students as required, depending on the availability of therapists.

A heated pool is located in near by premises and is used extensively for hydrotherapy and swimming lessons.

The School Strategic Plan is focused on improving student communication and interpersonal skills as well as improving transition pathways into, through and beyond school. The school prides itself on having an open and welcoming environment that encourages parent and community participation.

The school motto is “WE ACHIEVE.” We celebrate all achievements.