Externally funded providers
Our school works closely with families to make sure every child gets the support they need to learn and thrive. Sometimes this means bringing in specialist providers from outside our school, such as therapists funded by the NDIS or other programs.
These external providers do not have an automatic right to come into our school. Any request must come from a parent or carer in writing so we can make sure the support is safe, appropriate, and in the best interest of the student.
Hornsby North Public School is implementing enhanced processes regarding Externally Funded Providers supporting students during school hours. These changes follow professional learning undertaken by the school to strengthen our partnership with parents in addressing student needs. The new processes will came into effect at the beginning of 2025. Please note that even if your child is currently receiving support from an Externally Funded Provider, you will need to submit a new application at the start of next year.
A brief overview of the key changes is as follows:
- Parents must submit a written request to the school for an Externally Funded Provider to visit and support their child (see Page 4 of the attachment).
- The school will notify parents of the outcome of their request.
- If permission is granted for the Externally Funded Provider to attend onsite, parents will receive a confirmation email along with the required paperwork to be completed by the Provider. Please note that permission is granted for the calendar year only.
- While the paperwork is being processed, the classroom teacher will collaborate with parents to schedule a suitable time for the support. However, please be aware that the school will not alter its existing arrangements to accommodate individual student needs.
- Once the paperwork is submitted, a meeting will be arranged involving the parent, a member of the school executive team, and the Externally Funded Provider (if available). During this meeting, the support arrangements will be discussed and finalised.
To ensure a smooth start to the new year and to allow students and teachers to build strong relationships, Externally Funded Providers will not be permitted to support students until Week 5 of Term 1 at the earliest. The specific day and time for support will be negotiated between the school and the parent. Please be aware that it is unlikely the school will approve any support sessions between 9:10 am and 12:15 pm, as this period is dedicated to prime learning time for students.
As part of our school’s process, the classroom teacher, along with the Learning Support and Wellbeing Team, will review each request. It is essential that parents discuss their child's needs with the teacher early in the year, ensuring that any relevant reports are provided to the school. During the meeting, the staff will review your child’s needs and carefully consider the impact of regular absences from classroom learning. They will then provide a recommendation to the Principal, who will make the final decision.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to provide the best possible support for your child.
What does outside support mean?
Outside support means getting extra help for your child from people who are not part of our school. This can include:
- Assessments or checks – such as psychological, speech or occupational therapy
- Special tutoring or learning programs – run by trained professionals outside our school
- Health services – like counselling or medical support we cannot give internally
- Agency support – help with behaviour, language or social development
This support works with what our school already provides, to meet your child’s needs.
How the process works for parents and carers
Your role in the process
Parents help this process run smoothly by:
- Making the external provider request in writing to our school.
- Liaising with the provider to ensure all documents are completed and submitted to the school.
- Letting providers know if their child will be away or if there is a school event on that day.
For more information on accessing external provider support, see our Parents and carers external provider factsheet.
Requirements for external providers
External providers must meet all NSW Department of Education requirements before working with our school.
They must:
External providers must:
- Sign a written agreement with our school. See External Provider Engagement Agreement
- Follow the External provider information sheet and checklist.
External providers must:
- Follow the NSW Department of Education's policies on equity, inclusion, and child wellbeing
- Compliance with relevant laws and policies, including child protection and privacy
- Complete child protection training every year.
See External provider information sheet and checklist for all details.
External providers must have:
- Appropriate insurance coverage
- A valid Working with Children Check (WWCC)
- All necessary qualifications and experience.
See External provider information sheet and checklist for all details.