The Western Australian Government has announced additional schools will begin offering a specialist learning program for students with autism spectrum disorder over the next two years.
The program provides specialist and intensive support to students with autism who have the intellectual capacity to learn the mainstream curriculum, but have specific social and emotional development needs.
Currently, there are six schools across the state offering the program. An additional seven schools will offer the program in 2019.
Cooloongup Primary School, Alkimos Primary School, North Mandurah Primary School and Eaton Community College will deliver the program from next year.
Additionally, existing secondary autism extension programs at Ashdale Secondary College, Ocean Reef Senior High School and Fremantle College will be enhanced with additional resources and capacity to provide for an increased number of students.
“The specialist learning program ensures students with autism spectrum disorder receive the intensive support they require for academic, social and personal development,” said Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery.
A further three secondary schools will offer the program from 2020.
Each primary school selected to offer the program is in close proximity to one of the selected secondary schools, to provide students a seamless kindergarten to Year 12 program if required.
“Parents can feel confident that their child has the option of continuing the specialist program from primary through to secondary schooling in their local area,” added Minister Ellery.
Some classrooms in these schools will be adapted to meet student needs, and specialist teachers will provide individual education and support plans for each student based on the best-known teaching techniques.
A total of $32 million is being invested in the 16 programs.
