Around 70 people attended the special presentation which recognised the outstanding achievers in kindergartens, child care centres and schools for their positive inclusion of children with disabilities and additional needs. 

This year's HAPI Awards featured six categories and attracted nominations from across the region.

Finalists in each category received a certificate and winners won a plaque and $1000.

The 2011 HAPI Award winners are:

1.Category 1 - for inclusion of a child with an additional need/ mild disability at kindergarten - Moriac Preschool

Finalists: Early Learning at Rosewall, Apex Preschool,Colac and Moriac preschool

 

2.Category 2 - inclusion of a child with a moderate disability at kindergarten – William Hovell Preschool

Finalists: Grovedale Kindergarten, Flinders Kindergarten, William Hovell Preschool

 

3.Category 3 - inclusion of a child with a severe disability at kindergarten - William Hovell Preschool

Finalists: Leopold kindergarten, Williams House kindergarten, Clifton Springs Preschool, William Hovell Preschool

 

4.Category 4 – inclusion of a child with a  disability at childcare - Sherwood Park Childcare centre, Warrnambool

Finalists: City Learning and Care Corio, Buckingham St Early Learning Centre, Deakin Childcare Centre, Sherwood Park Childcare Centre

 

5.Category 5 – Inclusion of a child with a disability at a government-funded school – Alvie Consolidated School

Finalists: Portland North Primary, Portland Primary, Newcomb Secondary, Alvie Consolidated school

 

6.Category 6 – Inclusion of a child at a non government school – St Mary’s Primary School

Finalists: St Anthony’s Primary School Lara, Kardinia International College, St Joseph's College, St Mary’s Primary School

The awards are sponsored by G-Force Employment Solutions, The Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, City of Greater Geelong and City of Warrnambool.

This is the seventh year of the HAPI Awards developed by Gateways Support Services.