CURRICULUM
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a pervasive developmental disorder affecting many areas of functioning and results in a multi-handicapping disability. Impaired development of social, communication, sensory, perceptual, play and cognitive abilities result in patterns of behavior, which are in themselves equally pervasive and disabling. Programs are designed to promote appropriate learning and also address challenging behaviors in order that a learning attitude of attention and co-operation is established.
The broad curriculum ensures access to purposeful programs aimed at development of academic, social, communication and practical life skills. In the early school years programs follow a developmental sequence. For older students, there is an increasing emphasis on functional learning, life skills and age appropriate activities.
A major focus in all areas is the development of communication and sensory integration programs. Development of students’ social tolerance and interaction skills is crucial to promote participation in family, school and the wider community.
Curriculum design is enhanced by the expertise of a multi-disciplinary team, which includes psychologists, occupational therapist, music therapist, speech pathologist, swimming teacher and teachers trained in special education. High student staff ratios ensure intensive teaching, with each student having an individual learning plan developed in consultation with parents or care givers.
The school actively promotes the integration of students into their local primary school and sessional integration into primary schools local to Wantirna Heights with the support of Wantirna Heights staff.