Inclusive education in ILEs: What do we need to think about?

Abstract

Much has been said about mainstream students in innovative learning environments (ILE). Much less has been said about how inclusive education can be addressed in ILE (Page & Davis, 2016) and in particular the issues associated with incorporating satellite buildings within new ILE builds. For us 'inclusion in education' refers to how students learn together within the same educational environment, regardless of their ability. The investment in ILE with the requirement for all schools to address principles of flexible design has implications for inclusive education in Aotearoa (New Zealand). We touch on the complexities of teaching students with high and very high educational needs and the need to consider these when planning for ILE design, and professional learning and development for those who work with these students in ILE settings.