Important Information for Parents & Carers

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD) on School Students with Disability

Dear Parents and Carers,

Each year, all schools across Australia—including our Catholic schools—participate in the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD). This important initiative helps ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive in their learning journey.

At the heart of our Catholic tradition is the belief that every child is sacred, equal, and deserving of dignity and respect. Supporting students with disability is not just a legal requirement—it is an act of love and a reflection of our commitment to inclusive education.

What is the NCCD?

The NCCD is a national process that identifies and counts students who receive adjustments (or extra help) at school due to a disability. This data helps governments plan and fund resources to better support students with disability across Australia.

Who is Included?

To be included in the NCCD, schools consider four key questions:

1. Is the student receiving adjustments to help them participate in learning on the same basis as their peers?
2. Does the student meet the broad definition of disability under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992?
3. Have the adjustments been discussed with the student and/or their parent or carer?
4. Is there documentation (e.g. assessments, reports, learning plans) showing the student’s needs and progress?

If all four criteria are met, the student is included in the NCCD.

What is Considered a Disability?

The NCCD uses a broad definition of disability, which includes:

• Sensory (e.g. vision or hearing impairment)
• Cognitive (e.g. learning disorders, dyslexia)
• Social-emotional (e.g. anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder)
• Physical (e.g. cerebral palsy, chronic health conditions)

A formal diagnosis is helpful but not required—teacher judgment and school documentation are sufficient.

What are Adjustments?

Adjustments are the supports provided to help students learn and participate. These may include:

• Extra teacher or aide support
• Modified learning programs
• Assistive technology or equipment
• Changes to classroom layout or teaching methods
• Support for medical or behavioural needs

Adjustments vary depending on each student’s unique needs.

What Information is Collected?

Schools gather information from:

• Teachers’ observations and records
• Parent/carer input
• Reports from specialists (e.g. psychologists, speech pathologists)
• Personalised Learning Plans and meeting notes

This information helps build a clear picture of the student’s needs and the support provided.

Is the Data Confidential?

Yes. All data is handled in line with the school’s Privacy Policy. Student names are not included in the national data set. The school principal verifies and submits the data each August.

Do Parents Need to Give Consent?

No. Under the Australian Education Act 2013, schools are not required to obtain active consent from parents for a student’s inclusion in the NCCD. There is also no opt-out option.

Want to Learn More?

If you have questions or would like to discuss your child’s support needs, please contact your child’s teacher or the school office. You can also visit the official NCCD website: www.nccd.edu.au

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting every child’s learning journey.

Emma Grant 
Assistant Principal & Classroom Support Teacher