Developmental education supports
Developmental Educators work alongside Autistic people, their families and support networks to promote inclusion, strengthen capacity and create meaningful opportunities at home, school, work and within the community.
Using a person-centred, strengths-based approach, they support individuals to achieve their goals, develop practical life skills, navigate transitions and increase self-determination. Drawing on qualifications in disability studies, and guided by principles of advocacy, inclusion and human rights, Developmental Educators bring a unique disability-specific perspective. They support individuals to make informed choices, exercise their rights, build independence and strengthen their capacity to engage meaningfully in their communities.
Developmental Educators differ from teachers in both scope and purpose. They are trained in disability studies and apply disability-specific knowledge to support functional skill development, self-determination and inclusion. They partner with individuals and families to build confidence, increase opportunities and support meaningful lives on the individual's own terms.
Working alongside other allied health professionals
Developmental Educators may provide support independently or as part of a broader support team. They often work alongside allied health professionals, including Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists and Psychologists, to help individuals achieve their goals.
While there can be overlap in goals, Developmental Educators bring a unique focus on self-advocacy, inclusion, capacity building, life transitions and meaningful participation in everyday life. They support individuals to build practical skills, confidence and independence across home, school, work and community settings.
Key areas of support
Developmental Educators can support with:
- Building independence and daily living skills
- Developing self-advocacy, autonomy and decision-making skills
- Strengthening social connections and community participation
- Supporting emotional wellbeing and self-understanding
- Developing organisational, planning and problem-solving skills
- Building confidence in navigating education, employment and life transitions
- Supporting school, post-school and tertiary education transitions
- Supporting transitions into employment and adult services
- Promoting inclusion and reducing barriers to participation
- Supporting families, schools and support networks to achieve individual goals
- Building confidence to understand rights, express preferences and have a voice in decisions that affect everyday life
