We are thrilled to announce the completion of our Inclusive Learning Deck a beautiful new outdoor space designed to enhance inclusion, accessibility, and wellbeing at Ripponlea Primary School.

This project was proudly funded through the Victorian School Building Authority’s (VSBA) Accessible Buildings Program, which supports schools to create environments that ensure all students can participate fully in school life. The deck reflects our school’s commitment to providing safe, flexible, and inclusive spaces that meet the needs of every learner.

The new Inclusive Deck has quickly become a much-loved addition to our school grounds. With shaded areas, ramp access and versatile seating, the space supports small group learning, wellbeing sessions, therapy programs, and calm regulation. It offers a welcoming environment where students can connect, reflect, and engage in learning beyond the classroom.

Now completed, the deck is a hub of activity! Students are already enjoying Structured Play sessions featuring Connect Four, Chess, and Jenga, as well as cosy seating areas and our outdoor Social Stencil programs led by our fantastic wellbeing team. The atmosphere is lively, inclusive, and full of laughter and collaboration. We were also able to add a lockable storage container and seating bench through the use of contingency funds, bringing both functionality and comfort to the space.

This inclusive space complements Ripponlea’s strong focus on student wellbeing and inclusion through initiatives such as School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS), Zones of Regulation, Social Stencil, and Resilience, Rights & Respectful Relationships. It also provides a dedicated setting for our occupational therapist, inclusion team, and intervention specialists to work with students in a supportive and engaging environment.

The completion of the Inclusive Learning Deck marks an exciting milestone in our ongoing journey to make learning accessible and meaningful for all. We extend our sincere thanks to the VSBA for funding this project, and to our staff, students, and families for their enthusiasm and support throughout the process.

Together, we have created a space that truly embodies our school values — community, creativity, integrity, open-mindedness, resilience, and respect and celebrates the belief that every child belongs.