Personalised Learning Plans (PLP)
How do we implement them at your school?
Why do we have to do PLPs?
A PLP documents the adjusted achievement standards for students who have extensive learning needs. A PLP can also be provided for students who have gifts and talents; in care; indigenous learners; students who use English as an additional language or dialogue; and/or, have social emotional issues. Most students do not need a PLP. In fact, at many schools the adjustments for learners is part of our universal practice and extensive adjustments aren't necessary for most of our students.
ACARA features personalised learning as an important element of our curriculum. The PLP is not a recent compliance requirement. For many years we have used the Individual Education Plan (IEP). However, the IEP was based on goals that mostly were not related to the mandated curriculum. Ask me if you would like to read my article, "Is it RIP for the IEP?". Now we ensure respect for our learners by starting our planning at the year level the student is enrolled in before adjusting any achievement standards.
How do we start the PLP process?
Below is an example of a PLP for Mathematics with adjusted achievement standards drawn from Year 1 to 2.
Consultation with Parents and Carers
Who receives a PLP?
Some students that are receiving 'supplementary' or 'substantial' adjustments may also have a PLP. Their PLP may cover only one or two subjects e.g. English and/or Mathematics. They may not need adjusted achievement standards in all subject areas but adjustments to how the teaching and assessment is delivered. These adjustments can be noted on teacher's planning documents.