Multi-tiered systems of support: a roadmap for achieving an inclusive education system

This chapter explains how contradictions within early legislative and human rights initiatives resulted in the systematic segregation of children with disabilities into separate institutions and schools. In this chapter, I argue both the case and the means for transforming to a single inclusive system. First, I describe the contradictions inherent within the legislative foundations of mass schooling that resulted in the exclusion and segregation of children and young people with disability. I also demonstrate how the same contradictions within those early legislative reforms existed within human right treaties and the Education for All movement until the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability came into force and comprehensively addressed this. Following this I provide an overview of the evidence supporting inclusive education. I conclude by explaining how the multi-tiered system of supports offers the means to achieve systemic transformation ensuring that every student is able to access a high-quality education in their local school with the right supports to achieve and belong. I conclude by considering the barriers and enablers of change in domestic politics and legislation.