If we want to progress education reform and change, then the importance of value positions that are grounded by social and cultural beliefs about education, learning and difference need to be acknowledged.
Suzanne Carrington, Joanne Deppeler and Julianne Moss (2012, p. 1)
The literacy classroom: working to each child’s potential
In Australia, all young people have a right to attend their local school and to receive a good education. These rights are strongly protected in law.
The Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians, ratified by the State, Territory and Commonwealth Ministers of Education meeting at the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs (MCEETYA) in 2008, has two goals. First, that Australian schooling should promote equity and excellence.
You would find it useful to read the whole of The Melbourne Declaration on Education Goals for Young Australians. This document emerged out of negotiations between the Federal Government and the Australian states and territories, and provides a blueprint for educational reform in all sectors.
Second, that all young Australians should become successful learners, confident and creative individuals, and active and informed citizens (Commonwealth of Australia 2005, p. 7). This includes young Australians who have a disability.