PREPARATIONS are well in place for the Upper Hunter's first Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) "satellite" class to open its doors in Muswellbrook next year.
The Aspect Hunter School, which will be located at St James' Primary School from 2020, will provide opportunities for pupils on the autism spectrum through evidence-informed practice that is person-centred and family focused.
The organisation is currently setting up its new classroom, including a calm reading space, and seeking enrolments as there are still vacancies available.
"We can cater for students and families living within a 40km radius," Aspect Hunter School deputy principal Megan Lloyd said.
"We're hoping to offer from Kindergarten to Year 2.
"But, we could arrange for older years if there is the interest.
"In the past few weeks, we've worked to set up an autism-specific learning environment with visual supports, predictable routine and structured learning spaces in the room.
"Our class will have up to 12 pupils, two teachers and a teacher's aide and will be supported by our school psychologist, occupational therapist and speech therapist.
"We're looking forward to working with our host school community at St James' and providing autism-specific education in the Muswellbrook area for the first time."
