This episode explores ‘Education and Learning’, highlighting how the right supports and environments can enable people with disability to learn, connect, and thrive alongside their peers.

Sam Drummond speaks with students from Toowong State School in Queensland, a school leading the way in inclusive practice through bilingual education in English and Auslan. Josh Fletcher, a Year 5 student who is hard of hearing, and Lefroy, a Grade 3 student who is Deaf, share their experiences of learning in an environment where communication access is built in and valued.

He also speaks with Deputy Principal Elizabeth Fletcher, who explains the school’s unique and inclusive approach.

Also joining the conversation is Dr Kathy Cologon, Senior Lecturer in Inclusive Education at the Department of Educational Studies, Macquarie University, who discusses the importance of inclusive education from early childhood. She reflects on how inclusive classrooms benefit both disabled and non-disabled students, and why systemic change is essential to creating truly accessible and equitable education environments.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

This podcast by Powerd Media is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under the Inclusion and Accessibility Fund: Australia's Disability Strategy (ADS) – Community Attitudes grant program.