A purpose-built school, designed specifically to accommodate the unique educational needs of students with autism, will open in Perth on July 1. Former WA Chief Scientist and advocate, Lyn Beazley, is a strong supporter of this initiative. This place should be the incubator for truly personalized, individualized education for the kids who just have not found a way to succeed in traditional settings. The legislative agenda reflects the priority the school puts on personal passions and civic engagement. It is prepared to provide a new model for autism education.
This new school will serve only high school students. It ultimately intends to grow its charter to serve grades 7-12. It will be unable to enroll pre-high school students. This decision further demonstrates its commitment to serving older students requiring targeted, specialized support. This initiative comes as a response to the increasing recognition of the challenges faced by autistic teens in traditional educational settings.
Tailored Programs Designed for Individual Needs
Beyond the two RISE teams, the new school will roll out a three-day-per-week tech learning model focused on cultivating individual learning experiences for every student. And with high staff-to-student ratios, educators will be more equipped to intimately track and understand their individual students’ progress.
Lyn Beazley, who has been a leading advocate for autism awareness and education reform, expressed her enthusiasm for the school’s approach. She stated, “These are the young people we’re looking for, to give them the chance to really flourish.” The curriculum will encourage students to follow their own interests and engage in community activities, fostering both independence and social skills.
Furthermore, the school will offer work experience placements, immersing students in practical skill-building scenarios with a diverse range of industries. TAFE will provide greater flexibility through the provision of part-time enrollment. Without these supports, enterprising students may not be able to fully realize their educational potential.
Supportive Environment for Families
Parents looking for a more nurturing space for their kids have voiced their belief that the school’s opening will make a positive difference. Brooke Brophy, whose two children are among the first prospective students, shared her excitement: “My children will be your first students.” She noted that both of her children have struggled in mainstream schools for over a decade, stating, “Neither have been able to cope in mainstream school for over 10 years.”
Brophy highlighted the emotional toll that traditional schooling has had on her children: “Both my children have been suicidal as a result of mainstream education.” She insisted that her children don’t have behavioral issues. Rather, they contend with social and emotional delays due to their autism.
The school’s grassroots dedication to its mission shines through. So we will ask parents to come in for an assessment interview before we admit their kids. This process ensures that the school’s unique offerings align with each child’s specific needs.
Affordable Education with Flexible Options
Lyn Beazley promised future families the new school would not come with hefty fees. She reiterated that parents should not hesitate to bring up scholarships or discounts if required. This unusual commitment to affordability is a sign of the school’s commitment to serving families who are experiencing the same challenges and the same yoke.
Beazley recognized that even though the school is designed to serve a large number of students, it still won’t be the right fit for all students. “It’s when young people get to high school that the problem really comes to the fore,” she explained, indicating a targeted approach toward older pupils who may have found little success in larger educational settings.
Along with its approach, this pioneering school hopes to foster a welcoming and empowering environment in which autistic teens can truly excel both intellectually and interpersonally. Their new strategic plan for equitable growth puts the focus back on the individual needs of students. This community-centered process has been a huge advancement in our community’s commitment to advancing autism education.
