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Overview

Inclusive education classrooms are becoming an essential part of learning for children with high support needs. But what is it really like for teachers in such a highly unpredictable environment?

For decades, Leanne has had a heart and passion for teaching children with special needs. Hear how she finds joy in seeing students flourish.

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Episode ACF

21 Min.

Thursday, 5 March 2026

Messages of Hope Podcast

“You would see me just curled up on my bed in a foetal position, not wanting to go anywhere or do anything...”

‘I think as a teacher you always want to do the best. You want to go home every day knowing that you’ve done everything you can today to give them a good day. You certainly do go home sometimes and just think, could I have done more? Could I have done things differently? And then you have to stop and think, okay, we’ll try again tomorrow.’

A summary of the key points from this episode:
  • Inclusive education aims to meet each student where they are, supporting their individual needs so they can grow and flourish in a safe and supportive environment
  • Students with disabilities often thrive in environments where they feel understood, secure, and part of a supportive classroom community
  • Behaviour is often a form of communication, especially for students who cannot easily express their needs verbally
  • Collaboration between teachers, families, therapists, and support staff is essential to understand each child and provide the best support possible
  • Inclusive environments allow students to find purpose and belonging, rather than feeling like a burden or outsider
  • Faith, community support, and rest are important for teachers to sustain themselves in such a demanding but rewarding vocation
Full Episode A full written transcript (PDF format) of this episode is available via the link below:

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A Treasure Revealed

It was this man, born in 1483, whom God would use mightily to declare unequivocally to the world that is by grace – and grace alone – we are saved.

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A Treasure Revealed

It was this man, born in 1483, whom God would use mightily to declare unequivocally to the world that is by grace – and grace alone – we are saved.

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Episode

Inclusive Education

Inclusive education classrooms are becoming an essential part of learning for children with high support needs. But what is it really like for teachers in such a highly unpredictable environment?

PRAYER REQUEST

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We believe God is at work in all things, draws near in challenging circumstances, and loves each and every person fully and unconditionally.

If you would like us to pray for you or for someone you know, we encourage you to send us a prayer request. Our team would be happy to keep your situation in our prayers.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Support Services

Professional help is always available

Across Australia and New Zealand, God richly blesses us with counsellors, psychologists and medical professionals who are able to offer help, support and hope throughout life’s challenges.

If you have found the themes or topics contained within this episode challenging or confronting, we encourage you to reach out to one of the following professional support organisations.

Support Services

Lifeline Australia
13 11 99
Beyond Blue
1300 22 4636
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1800 858 858

ABOUT MESSAGES OF HOPE

Messages of Hope is a podcast and radio based media ministry of Lutheran Media.

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Prayer Request

We believe God is at work in all things, draws near in challenging circumstances, and loves each and every person fully and unconditionally.

If you would like us to pray for you or for someone you know, we would be happy to keep your situation in our prayers.