The different roles in schools

Schools are busy communities where everyone, from the principal to the canteen staff, contributes to creating a welcoming and effective learning environment.

Each person's role is essential to the school's smooth operation. 

School leadership

The principal, deputy principal, and head teachers, including teaching principals in smaller schools, are the leaders. These individuals are responsible for setting the tone and maintaining high educational standards. Their duties go beyond paperwork; they create an inclusive environment that meets the needs of all students, especially those with autism.

An assistant principal often handles specific tasks such as student welfare, curriculum development, or community engagement. These roles ensure the school runs efficiently and meets high educational standards.

Principals

The principal is like the school's CEO, overseeing all operations. They ensure the school's vision and mission are carried out effectively, creating an environment where students can thrive. For students with autism, principals ensure the school's policies and practices are inclusive and supportive.

Deputy principals and head teachers

Deputy principals and head teachers assist the principal in managing the school. They handle areas such as academic programs, discipline, and staff development, helping maintain high educational standards and supporting teachers in delivering inclusive education.

Educators and classroom support

Teachers, learning support teachers, and teacher's aides form the core of educational delivery. They are directly involved in creating and delivering lessons to diverse students. Educators play a significant role for children with autism. Their empathy, specialised knowledge, and commitment to inclusive education can greatly impact these students' learning experiences and social adaptation.

Teachers

Teachers design and deliver lessons that meet curriculum standards and address the needs of all students. They use various teaching methods to ensure every student, including those with autism, can access and engage with the material.

Learning support teachers

Learning support teachers help students who need extra assistance, including those with autism. They work closely with classroom teachers to modify lessons, provide one-on-one support, and implement individualised education plans (IEPs) tailored to each student's needs.

Teacher's aides

Teacher's aides assist teachers in the classroom by providing additional help to students who need it. They assist with classroom management, help students with their work, and ensure all students can participate fully in classroom activities. For students with autism, teacher's aides are crucial, helping them navigate the school day and stay engaged in learning.

Administrative and support staff

School administrative staff handle the everyday tasks that keep the school running, from managing records and communications to scheduling and resource allocation. Their efficiency ensures educators and school leaders can focus on teaching and leading.

School office staff

The office staff manage the school's administrative tasks, including maintaining student records, handling correspondence, and supporting the principal and teachers with their administrative needs. Their work ensures that the school runs smoothly and efficiently.

Classroom support staff

Classroom support staff, including assistants and teacher aides, provide the necessary help to maintain an adaptive learning environment. They ensure all students can access the required materials, accommodations, and technological aids, contributing to an inclusive and accessible educational setting.

Counselling and psychological services

School counsellors play a vital role in supporting all students' emotional and psychological wellbeing. They are particularly important for students with autism as they provide additional support, helping to integrate autistic students socially and emotionally into the school environment.

School counsellors

School counsellors offer guidance and support to students, helping them manage their emotions, build social skills and navigate the challenges of school life. They work with students individually and in groups, providing a safe space to talk about their feelings and concerns. For students with autism, counsellors help with social integration, communication skills, and coping strategies.

Psychologists

School psychologists assess students' needs and provide interventions to support their mental health and educational progress. They work closely with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create comprehensive support plans for students with autism, ensuring they receive the help they need to succeed in school.

The role of the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C)

The P&C Association is more than a fundraising body; it links the school and its wider community. This association offers a platform for parents, teachers, and students to collaborate and communicate openly about school life and the issues that matter most to them and their children.

Advocacy and involvement

Getting involved in the P&C allows parents to engage themselves in the school community, becoming advocates for their children and others. It's an excellent way for parents to stay informed about the school's activities and have a say in decisions that impact their children's education and wellbeing. P&C associations can advocate for the needs of neurodivergent students, ensuring they are met with appropriate resources and support systems. This could include funding for specialised training for teachers or purchasing aids that enhance learning for neurodivergent learners.

Fundraising and resource allocation

Through various fundraising efforts, the P&C can raise significant funds, which are essential for supporting classes and purchasing aids for neurodivergent learners, including those with autism. These funds help equip classrooms with the necessary resources to offer a tailored educational experience that can address the unique needs of each student.

Building community connections

Participation in the P&C also creates a strong sense of community among parents, making it an invaluable way to form friendships within the school. This community support is essential, not just for the social and emotional wellbeing of the parents but also for creating a collaborative environment for educational and social goals.

Additional roles within schools

Beyond the roles mentioned, several other positions contribute to a school's smooth functioning and the support of all students, including those with autism.

Canteen staff

Canteen staff provide nutritious meals and snacks, ensuring students have the energy to focus and learn. For students with autism, having access to familiar and preferred foods can be a significant comfort, helping them feel more at ease during the school day.

Librarians and library staff

Librarians and library staff support students' literacy and research skills, providing access to a wide range of resources. They create a welcoming environment where students can explore their interests and develop a love of reading. For students with autism, the library can be a quiet and safe space where they can find comfort and engage in their interests.

Grounds and maintenance staff

Grounds and maintenance staff ensure the school environment is safe, clean, and valuable to learning. They take care of the physical aspects of the school, from maintaining buildings and grounds to ensuring that facilities are in good working order. A well-maintained school environment is essential for all students, including those with autism, who may be particularly sensitive to their surroundings.

IT support

IT support staff manage the school's technology infrastructure, ensuring that students and teachers can access the digital tools they need for learning. Assistive technology can be particularly beneficial for students with autism, providing alternative ways to communicate, learn, and engage with the curriculum.

Creating an inclusive school environment

Creating an inclusive school environment requires the collective effort of all staff members, parents, and the wider community. For students with autism, inclusivity means more than being physically present in the classroom; it means being fully integrated into the school community and having access to the same opportunities as their peers.

Inclusive teaching strategies

Teachers can use various inclusive teaching strategies to support students with autism, such as differentiated instruction, visual supports and sensory-friendly classrooms. These strategies help ensure all students can access the curriculum and participate fully in classroom activities.

Professional development

Ongoing professional development for all school staff is essential to ensure they have the knowledge and skills to effectively support students with autism. Training in areas such as autism awareness, inclusive teaching practices, and positive behaviour support can make a significant difference in creating a supportive and understanding school environment.

Collaboration with families

Collaboration with families is crucial for supporting students with autism. Schools can better understand each student's unique needs by working closely with parents and carers and developing personalised support plans. Regular communication between school staff and families helps ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals and that any challenges can be addressed promptly.

Creating sensory-friendly spaces

Creating sensory-friendly spaces within the school can provide autistic students a safe and calming environment. These spaces can be used for breaks when students feel overwhelmed or need time to regulate their sensory input. Sensory rooms, quiet areas, and designated chill-out zones can make a significant difference in helping students with autism feel comfortable and supported at school.