Being unable to express yourself often leads to isolation and frustration for non-verbal students, but with an iPad in hand, the world opens up. 

State Schools’ Relief’s (SSR) iPad program gives non-verbal students the tools to answer questions, share their feelings and have their voices heard – often for the first time. Proudly supported by Bank First, SSR has distributed over 455 iPads to students across Victoria this year alone. 

At Dharra School, a specialist school where 85% of students are non-verbal, the iPad program has already made a significant impact.  

Principal and longtime Bank First Member, Lizzie Tout explains, 'We call the iPads our students’ ‘words’. They use the devices to express their emotions, communicate in class and share their needs. When our students become frustrated, it’s often because they can’t communicate with us. The iPad program removes that barrier, so we can work together to figure it out.’ 

Lizzie has witnessed firsthand how the program has supported both teachers and students. 

‘The support from State Schools’ Relief and Bank First has been amazing. Staff have really noticed the impact in their classrooms. It's changed everything for them.’ 

SSR is committed to ensuring no student is left behind due to financial hardship, providing essential items like uniforms, shoes and glasses. But the iPad program goes even further. 

For Andrew Cameron, CEO of SSR, the goal is clear: to help non-verbal students thrive. ‘It’s about giving students the tools to fully engage in their learning,’ he says. ‘It’s a critical part of ensuring they are able to participate and grow, just like their peers.’ 

The difference is felt by families and teachers every day. Adrian Wilson, Head of Community Partnerships at Bank First, said 'For decades, we’ve partnered with State Schools’ Relief to support students in need. The iPad program empowers non-verbal students to communicate not only with teachers and Allied Health staff but also with their families.’ 

SSR ensures that each iPad goes to students who will benefit from it most. Allied health providers and school staff work together to identify students in specialist schools who need a learning device but face financial barriers, so every child can thrive, regardless of their circumstances. 

 ‘Families love the program because they really see the growth in their child. It makes meaningful communication at home possible. We're just at the beginning of what we've been able to do because of this program and we're really looking forward to what the future holds,’ said Lizzie. 

 Each iPad delivered is more than just a device. For non-verbal students, it’s a bridge to communication and a tool that supports independence. 

As a bank built by teachers, Bank First is proud to support specialist school teachers and SSR’s transformative work.