Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), Australia’s leading national autism provider with one of the largest autism-specific school programs in the world, is preparing to open a new ‘satellite’ class in 2020 for the Upper Hunter region.
A ‘satellite’ class is an autism-specific class operated by an Aspect School, but located in a host, mainstream school, in this case the St James’ Primary School in Muswellbrook. This will be the first autism-specific class in the Upper Hunter region and is pending expected NESA approval.
“The collaboration with St James’ Primary School and Aspect Hunter School creates an opportunity to provide autism-specific educational support in the upper Hunter Valley,” said Principal Aaron Moon, from St James’ Primary School, “We are delighted to be hosting the Aspect satellite class and look forward to welcoming new students to our campus next year”.
Aspect Hunter School provides specialised autism education across the Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie and Port Macquarie local government areas providing opportunities for students on the spectrum through evidence-informed practice that is person-centred and family focused.
Aspect Hunter School Principal Lara Cheney said; “Too often students with autism are placed in mainstream schools without the appropriate supports, when they are not ready to meet the many challenges a mainstream school environment poses.
“In addition, our research and experience shows that the benefits of the satellite class program are mutual.
“Aspect brings over 50 years of experience in providing specialist education to students on the spectrum through its unique approach known as the Aspect Comprehensive Approach. This new satellite class addresses a real need for autism-specific learning in the Muswellbrook community.”
