Understanding Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA)
As an experienced educational writer, I’m delighted to provide this comprehensive guide on AARA resources for the Stanley Park High School community. The Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) recognizes that some students may face barriers to demonstrating their learning due to disability, impairment, medical conditions, or other circumstances. Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA) are designed to help these students showcase their knowledge and skills on the same basis as their peers.
At Stanley Park High, we are committed to supporting our students and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed. This article will explore the AARA process, the types of adjustments available, and how our school can assist you or your child in accessing these valuable resources.
The AARA Application Process
The first step in accessing AARA is to discuss your child’s individual circumstances with their teachers or the Head of Year. Our school will work closely with you and your child to understand the impact of their situation on their ability to engage in assessment tasks.
Once we have a clear understanding of the student’s needs, we will guide you through the AARA application process. This typically involves completing the AARA Application Form and providing relevant documentation, such as medical certificates or formal assessments.
It’s important to note that the QCAA does not require the use of their specific templates. As long as the necessary information is provided, our school can submit the application in an alternative format. This flexibility ensures that the process is as straightforward as possible for families.
Types of AARA
The QCAA offers a wide range of AARA to support students in a variety of situations. These adjustments are designed to minimize barriers and enable students to demonstrate their learning, knowledge, and skills. Some common examples of AARA include:
Disability or Impairment
- Extra time for assessment tasks
- Use of assistive technology (e.g., speech-to-text software, screen readers)
- Provision of rest breaks
- Alternative formats for assessment tasks (e.g., oral presentations, recordings)
Long-term Health Conditions
- Scheduling adjustments (e.g., rescheduling assessment tasks, extensions)
- Provision of alternative assessment tasks or formats
- Access to rest breaks or additional time
Illness or Misadventure
- Rescheduling of assessment tasks
- Extensions for submission deadlines
- Provision of alternative assessment tasks or formats
It’s important to note that the specific AARA adjustments provided will be based on the student’s individual circumstances and the impact of those circumstances on their assessment. This means that the adjustments may differ for students with the same diagnosis, condition, or subject enrolment.
Accessing AARA at Stanley Park High
At Stanley Park High, we are committed to supporting our students and ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed. If your child is experiencing difficulties that may impact their ability to engage in assessment tasks, we encourage you to reach out to their teachers or the Head of Year.
Our team will work closely with you and your child to understand their individual needs and guide you through the AARA application process. We are here to provide the necessary support and resources to help your child demonstrate their learning on the same basis as their peers.
To access the AARA Application Form and other relevant documents, please visit the school’s website at https://www.stanleyparkhigh.co.uk/. Alternatively, you can contact the Head of Year directly to discuss your child’s situation and the available AARA options.
The Importance of AARA
AARA play a crucial role in ensuring equity and inclusivity in the Queensland curriculum and assessment system. By providing adjustments and accommodations, the QCAA aims to remove barriers and enable all students to showcase their knowledge and skills, regardless of their individual circumstances.
At Stanley Park High, we recognize the value of AARA in supporting our students’ academic and personal growth. By accessing these resources, students can focus on their learning and demonstrate their true potential, without being hindered by factors outside their control.
We encourage all families to familiarize themselves with the AARA process and to reach out to our school if they have any questions or concerns. Together, we can work to ensure that every student at Stanley Park High has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
Navigating the QCAA Resources
The QCAA has a wealth of resources available to help schools, parents, and medical professionals understand and implement AARA. On their website, you can find:
- QCAA memos for schools, providing important updates and guidance
- Information on requesting professional development services
- Detailed explanations of the AARA process and eligibility criteria
- Sample forms and templates to assist with the application process
- Contact information for the QCAA’s assessment and certification team
To access these resources, please visit the QCAA website at https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/aara/resources. You can also reach out to the QCAA directly by phone at (07) 3864 0299, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Conclusion
At Stanley Park High, we are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all our students. Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA) are a crucial part of this commitment, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to showcase their knowledge and skills on an equal playing field.
We encourage you to explore the AARA resources available and to reach out to our school if you believe your child could benefit from these adjustments. Together, we can work to unlock your child’s full potential and help them achieve their academic and personal goals.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your child’s specific needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you and your family throughout this journey.
