- Successful specialist learning program for students with autism spectrum disorder to continue rollout at additional schools
- A further four secondary schools and three primary schools will offer the program from 2019
- The program will be rolled out in 16 schools by 2020
An additional seven schools will offer a successful specialist learning program for students with autism spectrum disorder from 2019.
The program provides specialist and intensive support to students with autism who have the intellectual capacity to learn the mainstream curriculum, but who have specific social and emotional development needs.
Cooloongup Primary School, Alkimos Primary School, North Mandurah Primary School and Eaton Community College will deliver the program from 2019.
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.
A further three secondary schools, Baldivis Secondary College, Butler North Senior High School (planning name only) and Coodanup College, 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, providing students with a seamless kindergarten to Year 12 program if required.
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 which are being rolled out from 2016 to 2020. The program is already in place in six schools.
As noted by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"The specialist learning program ensures students with autism spectrum disorder receive the intensive support they require for academic, social and personal development.
"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.
"The program - which has already seen fantastic results - is part of a wider, comprehensive approach to disability education in Western Australia."
