Andale School is a small and independent school that specifically caters for children with language and learning disorders who aren’t able to learn effectively in a mainstream setting.
With class sizes limited to 12 students, Andale is able to offer individualised education programs to help each child thrive in the classroom.
Catering for students from Prep to Year 8, the school’s curriculum focuses on developing literacy, numeracy and social skills.
Andale teachers have undergone special training, and the school even has a speech therapist on staff to support its learning programs.
Principal Marg Cotter said students were taught at their own level and pace.
“We use individualised education programs to capitalise on the students’ strengths and build their weaknesses,” she explained.
Students are also offered performing arts and sports programs, including swimming lessons at the Kew Recreation Centre.
On top of that, Andale also brings in experts to run hip hop dancing and karate classes.
Ms Cotter said these classes were great for students’ physical coordination and self-esteem.
The small learning environment is also beneficial for children with language and learning difficulties, who can find themselves overwhelmed by the amount of faces and noise at mainstream schools.
But one of the best things about Andale School is the friendships students make – real friends who they look forward to seeing every day because they have fun, laugh and learn together
Andale School is located at 84 Charles Street, Kew.
For more information, phone 9853 3911 or email andaleschool@andale.vic.edu.au
