2025 WA Education Awards finalists: Excellence in disability and inclusion

Four schools have been recognised for their outstanding work in supporting the diverse needs of students and creating communities where every student feels they belong.

Bob Hawke College, Fremantle College, Mosman Park School for Deaf Children and Warnbro Community High School Education Support Centre, are finalists in the excellence in disability and inclusion category in the WA Education Awards 2025.  

The winner will be announced at an award presentation event on Monday 17 November.  

Here’s more about the finalists:  

Bob Hawke College 

Bob Hawke College is home to a richly diverse community with students who have a wide range of needs.  

Principal John Burke says inclusion at the college is not a program but a core belief. Every student learns in mainstream classes and is supported to succeed. Flexible teaching, education assistants and dedicated inclusion facilitators ensure students can access learning alongside their peers. Staff are also encouraged to lead the college’s inclusive vision and receive targeted professional learning. 

This whole-school approach has been met with strong feedback from students and families, many of whom credit the college’s culture of belonging as key to their success. 

Fremantle College 

Fremantle College has grown into a dynamic and thriving learning community, built on a foundation of celebrating diversity and strong collaboration. The inclusive culture at the college is evident across all areas of school life, from neurodiverse-friendly classrooms and sensory adaptations to student-led clubs, such as Lego Masters and Dungeons and Dragons, which provide safe spaces for connection and leadership.  

Strong Aboriginal cultural programs, including the Walyalup Kwila dance group, have expanded greatly, with students performing at major events and leading reconciliation initiatives across the community. 

Mosman Park School for Deaf Children 

At Mosman Park School for Deaf Children (MPSDC), inclusion is not only an aspiration but a foundation. Success comes from building strong relationships and partnerships with families.  

As Western Australia’s only dedicated primary school for Deaf and hard of hearing students, MPSDC ensures language and culture are celebrated every day under the motto ‘All Auslan, all English, all the time’. 

Warnbro Community High School Education Support Centre 

Warnbro Community High School Education Support Centre’s  reputation has been built on strong partnerships, innovative teaching models and student-centred learning environments.  

Families are closely connected through a range of communication channels and the support of a family liaison officer. Staff are committed to creating supportive and tailored environments that nurture both wellbeing and success. 

Find out more about the WA Education Awards.