Inclusion and Belonging at the local school: The parent advocacy toolkit – Gold Coast

About the event:

Inclusion, in the regular local school, of children with disability has been possible for decades. It is a human right and is supported by evidence. But achieving inclusion for all children is still not simple and straightforward! The role of a parent in working with their child’s school for good inclusion is crucial. This is an interactive in-person workshop that provides a rare chance to meet with others wanting to learn how to make inclusive education a reality for their child with disability.

This free face-to-face workshop will be delivered by CRU facilitators passionate about inclusive lives for children with disability.

Topics covered will be:

• Knowing your child’s gifts and setting a vision for inclusion success

• Embracing your role as an advocate

• What authentic inclusion in the regular class looks like

• Education laws, policies and supports

• Speaking positively and confidently to work collaboratively with the school

• Advocacy tips to stay strong and effective
  

About the Presenters:

Lindie Brengman is a Senior Facilitator at CRU. She began her career as an occupational therapist, and her commitment to inclusion deepened when one of her four children was born with a disability. Her experience advocating for her daughter, now 22, to receive an inclusive education led her to CRU. Lindie was also a founding member of the Queensland Collective for Inclusive Education (QCIE).

Lara Maia-Pike joined CRU as a facilitator in 2026 after being involved with the organisation since 2016. A parent of two teenagers with disability, she brings more than 15 years’ higher education, specialising in inclusive education research. Lara holds a PhD examining post-school transitions for Queensland students with disability and has also been actively involved with the Queensland Collective for Inclusive Education (QCIE).

Who Should Attend?

Parents and carers of school-aged children (Prep to Year 12) with disability. Parents and carers of younger children who are starting to think about/ prepare for the school years are also most welcome to attend.

Event details

Thursday 29th October 2026
Time: 9.30-2.00pm
Venue: SOPO, 36 Scarborough St. Southport, QLD
RSVP: 21 October 2026

Download the accessible flyer here (word)

Download the flyer here (PDF)

About CRU:

For over 35 years, Community Resource Unit has been working across Queensland to help people with disability take control of their lives and take their place in their community.

This event is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

Please contact CRU if you require assistance to register, attend or participate in this event. p. 07 3844 2211 or e. cru@cru.org.au

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