THE nation's leading autism provider, Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect), is preparing to open a new "satellite" class within the Upper Hunter in 2020.
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A satellite class is an autism-specific lesson operated by an Aspect facility, but located in a host, mainstream school.
And, in this case, it's St James' Primary School in Muswellbrook.
This will be the first autism-specific class in the 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 area," St James' Primary principal Aaron Moon said.
"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 (LGAs), providing opportunities for pupils on the spectrum through evidence-informed practice that is person-centred and family focused.
"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," Aspect Hunter School Principal Lara Cheney said.
"In addition, our research and experience shows that the benefits of the satellite class program are mutual.
"Aspect brings more than 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."