Introduction

If your child is navigating school with a disability, you might be wondering:

“Can the NDIS help with school support?”

The answer is yes—but it’s important to understand exactly what the NDIS funds, what it doesn’t, and how to work alongside schools.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What schooling-related supports the NDIS can cover
• What responsibilities still fall under the education system
• Examples of supports funded under the NDIS
• How to advocate for your child—and how Assist Providers can help

🧑‍🏫 NDIS vs Education System: Who Funds What?

One of the biggest sources of confusion is which system is responsible.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

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⚠️ The NDIS won’t fund anything considered the responsibility of the school, like teachers or tutoring.

✅ What the NDIS Can Fund for Students

Supports must relate to your child’s functional capacity, not educational outcomes.

Here are common examples:

1. Therapies That Support Participation in School

• Occupational therapy (e.g. for handwriting, sensory needs)
• Speech therapy (e.g. for communication in class)
• Psychology or behavioural supports

2. Assistive Technology

• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Visual aids (magnifiers, communication boards)
• Seating supports or ergonomic tools
• iPads with communication software (AAC)
• Modified cutlery or dressing aids for school independence

3. Personal Care Support at School

• Toileting, feeding, hygiene assistance
• May be delivered by school staff or through an external provider
• NDIS may fund an external support worker if school cannot meet personal care needs

4. Transport Assistance

If the student cannot travel independently and the school doesn’t provide adequate transport, the NDIS may fund transport support (core supports or transport budget).

5. Capacity Building Supports

• Social skills development
• Self-regulation strategies
• School readiness (for young children)
• Therapy programs outside school that enhance classroom participation

📄 Real Example: Ava, 10, Autism + Sensory Processing

Ava struggles with noise and transitions at school. Her NDIS plan includes:

• Weekly OT sessions for sensory regulation
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Visual schedule tools for her desk
• Psychologist support to manage anxiety

This has helped Ava stay in class longer and reduce meltdowns.

🛑 What the NDIS Doesn’t Cover

🚫 Teacher or aide salaries

🚫 Educational software, books, or tutoring

🚫 School uniforms, fees, or excursions

🚫 Modifications to school property (funded by Dept. of Education)

🧠 Tip: Link All Supports to Functional Capacity

When applying for NDIS supports for school, focus on:

• Communication challenges
• Mobility and access
• Sensory regulation
• Social engagement
• Independence with daily tasks

Always link the need back to how it impacts daily living, not academic success.

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

✅ Goal setting that aligns with NDIS expectations

✅ Templates for therapy reports linked to school function

✅ Coaching parents through plan reviews focused on schooling

✅ Progress tracking to demonstrate improvements or new challenges

✅ Coordination with schools to avoid duplication of supports

We support families and therapists in bridging the gap between NDIS and education—so students thrive.

🏁 Final Thoughts

School is a major part of life for young NDIS participants. While the NDIS won’t fund the school system itself, it can fund important supports that help your child engage, regulate, and participate fully.

Understanding the boundaries—and knowing how to phrase your requests—makes all the difference.

Need help navigating school-related supports? Assist Providers is here to guide you.