Early help, lasting impact: the success of a Specialist Equipment Loan

Goodstart Early Learning Grovedale – Torquay Road’s Assistant Director Christy Bairamidis spoke with Inclusion Professional Kristabel Fitzgerald about how a Specialist Equipment Library (SEL) loan is supporting a child through their education and care journey.

Access to the right equipment at the right time can be life-changing, not only for children with disabilities, but for the educators supporting their inclusion in early learning environments. At Goodstart Early Learning Grovedale – Torquay Road, Assistant Director Christy Bairamidis shares how the Specialist Equipment Library (SEL), managed by the Victorian Inclusion Agency, has supported children to participate, thrive and connect across every stage of his early childhood education journey.

Kristabel Fitzgerald: How has utilising the Specialist Equipment Library (SEL) helped Phillip* be included in your service?

Christy Bairamidis: The SEL has played a crucial role in enabling Phillip to participate meaningfully in all areas of our program. With access to the right equipment, we were able to tailor the environment to his needs without compromising his ability to join in daily routines and experiences. This meant Phillip could engage alongside his peers safely and confidently, fostering social interactions, building his independence and supporting his development.

Kristabel: How did you first go about securing SEL for Phillip? Can you tell us about this process?

Christy: We initially reached out to our IP to begin the process and together we developed a Strategic Inclusion Plan (SIP). We then completed an item request form with support from the allied health team and submitted both the completed request form and the signed parent consent form to the Specialist Equipment team.

Once approved, the equipment was shipped out. The allied health team visited the service to fit the equipment for Phillip, ensuring it was appropriate and correctly adjusted for him. They continue to provide ongoing support, checking in regularly to confirm the equipment remains suitable and meets his evolving needs.

Kristabel: What type of equipment have you borrowed for Phillip over the years?

Christy: We’ve borrowed a range of equipment to support Phillip across various stages. This has included supportive seating, a standing frame, switch toys and an electric change table. Each item was chosen based on Phillip’s current goals and physical support needs, which evolved as he transitioned from the nursery room to the pre-kinder room.

Kristabel: How has the SEL helped Phillip in each room?

Christy: In the nursery room, equipment like supportive seating allowed Phillip to sit safely at the table and interact with peers during meals and play. As he progressed into the toddler and pre-kinder rooms, supportive aids such as the seating chair enabled him to engage in group times or floor activities. 

His seating frame has also been a valuable support during group time, allowing Phillip to sit comfortably on the mat alongside his peers and fully engage in the kinder program. With the support of specialist equipment, Phillip has been able to take part in Kelly Sports, a weekly incursion held every Tuesday, and he especially enjoys outdoor play.

Kristabel: Your service has done a fantastic job looking after the equipment. Any tips for other services?

Christy: We treated the SEL equipment as an extension of our own resources, assigning responsibility to specific educators for checking and maintaining the items daily. We trained staff on how to use and store the equipment. If we notice any faults, we promptly reach out to the SEL team, who are always happy to assist. Additionally, if we no longer need an item, the process for having it picked up is very straightforward and easy.

Kristabel: What wider impact has the SEL had in your service?

Christy: The SEL has done more than just provide equipment – it has helped shift our thinking as educators. It has encouraged us to see inclusion not simply as making adjustments, but as proactively designing environments and routines that welcome and support all children from the very beginning. 

Phillip’s presence in our service has enriched our practice and highlighted the importance of advocating for access to resources like the SEL.

* Child’s name has been changed.

This story is a powerful reminder that inclusion begins with access to equipment, support and informed educators. Through the collaborative efforts of the service team, allied health professionals and the SEL program, Phillip has been able to engage with confidence, independence and joy. More than a loan system, the SEL is enabling educators to reimagine what inclusion looks like and to embed it meaningfully in everyday practice.

The Specialist Equipment Library (SEL) is a free service managed by the Victorian Inclusion Agency, through Yooralla. We loan equipment that allows children with disabilities or additional needs to participate in your daily program and activities.

This article was first published in VIA’s Embrace magazine #18, spring 2025 edition.