Leader - Benalla campus

Location Profile

Wangaratta District Specialist School is a multi-mode specialist school catering for students with mild to severe intellectual and associated disabilities from five to eighteen years of age. We strive to provide a purposeful, comprehensive learning environment meeting the social, emotional and educational requirements of every student.

More than 80 Teaching, Educational Support, wellbeing and Allied Health staff are passionately committed to working with families, carers, specialists, relevant outside agencies and the local community to ensure students achieve their maximum potential and targeted educational outcomes. Enrolment continues to increase with fervour. The 2026 school year began with 165 students enrolled.

WDSS is located in the Rural City of Wangaratta and as of the beginning of 2025, a second campus will also be located in the Rural city of Benalla. The school services the Benalla, Myrtleford, Ovens and King Valleys, Rutherglen, Wahgunyah, and Wangaratta districts. six buses transport students from within Wangaratta and the many towns in surrounding districts.

The school¿s philosophy is reflected in its motto, `Together We Will¿.  This is based on the belief that children learn best in a co-operative environment that is happy, challenging, supportive and non-threatening.  Strong and respectful relationships between all members of the school community are encouraged as is the active involvement and participation of students, staff, parents, caregivers, volunteers and the wider school community. This is reflected in the strong relationship the schoo…