In a boost for inclusivity in youth sport, Sydney’s public schools are increasingly embracing wheelchair basketball — a move that educators and advocates say is transforming attitudes and improving accessibility for all students. The initiative, backed by the New South Wales Department of Education and several non-profits, is expanding rapidly after a successful trial in three inner-city schools.
The program involves students of all physical abilities learning and playing together in modified basketball games using sports wheelchairs. Trained coaches — many of them athletes with disabilities themselves — lead sessions that blend physical education with conversations about equity, teamwork, and resilience.
At Glebe Public School, lunchtime has become a highlight for students who race to the court to try their hand at maneuvering and shooting from a chair. 'It’s not just about who can run or jump anymore,' said PE teacher Marco Leung. 'This has changed the way our students see each other — and themselves.'
Funding for the program comes in part from Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT, which supplies equipment and training. Each participating school receives a starter fleet of ten chairs, along with repair support and staff development workshops. Additional funding has been provided by local councils and philanthropic foundations.
Year 6 student Priya Joshi, who does not have a disability, said learning to play the sport opened her eyes. 'I didn’t realise how hard it is to shoot from a chair,' she said. 'But also how fun it is. You feel strong. And it’s fair because we’re all in chairs together.'
Teachers report a boost in empathy, cooperation, and engagement in PE classes. Some schools are now integrating the sport into annual carnivals and interschool tournaments, with hopes to formalise a citywide league by 2026.
The program also serves as a pipeline for identifying emerging talent. Two students from the original pilot have already been invited to development squads for the NSW junior wheelchair basketball team. For these young athletes, the court has become more than just a space for exercise — it’s a stage for aspiration.
Disability advocate and former Paralympian Darren Mills praised the expansion. 'We need more programs like this that normalise inclusion from a young age. It’s not about sympathy — it’s about equal play, equal challenge, equal respect.'
With growing interest and positive feedback from parents and students alike, the Department of Education is evaluating long-term funding options. If all goes to plan, wheelchair basketball could soon be a regular fixture across Sydney's schoolyards, championing both sport and social progress.