Disabled students’ experience of inclusion – Maja Ruzicic

I asked many of my friends with different abilities about their experience in Malta’s primary and secondary state schools.
Many said their academic experience has generally been very positive. For example, teachers all do their utmost to make sure all students feel included regardless of whether they have a mental or physical disability, and that their special arrangements (special requirements for exams and throughout the year) are acknowledged, that they are treated equally as the other students and not excluded.
Nonetheless, there is one lesson where almost all of them said they are left out – PE lessons. Many said they are not included and just left to watch, but this is not the case for everyone. Some found ways to substitute the lesson or be included in their own way by, for example, doing their own stretches on the side. Some also said many other students decide to stay with them during the lessons so they don’t feel excluded.

Often, certain outings are also altered for the good of such students. For example, it is ensured that if the outing involves a lot of movement, there are also different, shorter routes so such students can still take part. Also, if the students...