About Us
Vision and Mission
Our Vision
Everyone, regardless of disability, has the right to learn in an environment and way that fosters their development.
Our Mission
Making quality, special education accessible.
Our Values
We value and embrace everyone for who they are, accepting differences in opinions and backgrounds. Respect means caring enough to consider how our actions impact others.
We uphold honesty and strong moral principles. Acting ethically and doing the right thing, even behind closed doors, defines our commitment to integrity.
We champion access, equity, participation, and human rights for all. Our commitment to social justice ensures fairness and inclusivity in every aspect of our work.
We cultivate understanding and connection with others by acknowledging and responding to their thoughts and feelings. Empathy is the cornerstone of building meaningful social relationships.
Key outcome areas
Research-based professional development and training
Delivering evidence-based special education programs and support for people living with disability.
Advocating for special education to a range of audiences.
Delivered by
to build strong relationships and make special education a national conversation.
evidence-based programs and support to ensure progressive and meaningful learning for people with disability.
with the global research community to share knowledge, expertise and contribute to the evidence base of special education.
by providing quality professional development and coaching to those who work with people living with disability.
Our Story
The STaR Inclusive Early Childhood Association was founded in 2001 by Dr. Coral Kemp, parents, and professionals from Macquarie University Special Education Centre. Initially launched as a pilot program in 2002, STaR pioneered inclusive education, supporting children with and without disabilities in childcare centres. Over two decades, STaR has delivered the early years program in 30+ centres, supporting over 600 children with disabilities and mentoring educators through professional development. In 2020, STaR broadened its vision to include lifelong learning, addressing the lack of educational opportunities for adults with disabilities in post-school settings. STaR remains committed to fostering inclusion and learning for all.
Celebrating 20 Years of STaR
Early years educators often ask us, “What does inclusion look like?” Play the video to learn about what inclusion looks like in practice.
ABout Us
What does STaR stand for?
Special Education
This is specially designed teaching instruction to meet the unique learning needs of a person with disability. Special Educators are qualified professionals with a postgraduate degree.
Teaching
We develop and deliver evidence-based training for educators, teachers, allied health and support workers, bridging the gap between research and practice. We coach and mentor those who work with people with disabilities across all settings and age groups.
and
Research
Research underpins all of our work. STaR keeps up to date with, conducts, and participates in research because we know evidence-based practices are more likely to work than those without research support.
Support Us
Every little bit helps us to grow. Support us in supporting others by making a donation.
reports
Annual & Financial Report 2023-2024
Annual & Financial Report 2022-2023