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.
Podcast
Inclusive Education
21 Min.
Thursday, 5 March 2026
Messages of Hope Podcast
Somebody said something.
‘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.’
Key Takeaways
- 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
- Teaching students with special needs can be unpredictable and emotionally demanding, requiring patience, flexibility, and deep care for each individual child
- 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
- Faith, community support, and rest are important for teachers to sustain themselves in such a demanding but rewarding vocation
Episode Transcript
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Booklets and Related Episodes
Each episode of our regular podcast is accompanied by free resources that provide hope, encouragement and advice for navigating the difficulties and challenges of daily life.
PRAYER REQUEST
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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.
