Children in local schools get an early-intervention boost from Learning Links

Posted on Tuesday, 22 October 2024

Canterbury League Club are helping fund $43,800 for two Learning Links projects focusing on supporting children with learning difficulties and disabilities in our local area.

The first project will see specialised psychologists visit Belmore South Public School to establish an assessment program which will help understand and diagnose children’s learning, social and well-being needs. The second project focuses on schools in the Canterbury-Bankstown area and targeting early-intervention strategies for students struggling with literacy and numeracy.

“Both projects aim to create lasting, positive impacts for children with learning difficulties by providing crucial educational and psychological support, as well as equipping educators with the tools to sustain these interventions,” said Don Tilley, General Manager, Community and Strategic Partnerships of Learning Links.

“Our psychologists use a combination of cognitive, academic, and psychological assessments to diagnose and evaluate children’s learning, social and wellbeing needs,” said Don.

“By evaluating and understanding where a child has challenges, we can provide tailored recommendations, interventions and therapies, positive coping strategies, reduce the child’s stress and enrich their competence and wellbeing.”

Without intervention, these children risk falling considerably behind their peers in both academic achievement and social growth; especially highlighted in a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) area like Canterbury-Bankstown where English is not always their first language. This absence of support may also result in mental health issues like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulties in social interactions, which can further prevent their ability to succeed in school and in life.

“Canterbury believes that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, and these initiatives will provide life-changing support for both students and educators in our local area,” said Peter Winchester, Chairman of Canterbury League Club.

“It’s an investment in the future, giving children the tools they need to build confidence, improve their well-being, and reach their full potential.”

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