There are to be two Autism classes called Bundalong 1 and 2. Each class consists of a maximum of 7 students and is supported by a main class teacher and SLSO (School Learning Support Officer), other teaching staff on the class, a Head Teacher and the senior executive of the school. The school Welfare team and Careers Advisor also play a role in each student's development and wellbeing.
Students are placed in this setting, with the support of parents/carers, on the basis of their learning needs. Teaching and learning programs are highly individualised, with a balanced focus on academic, behavioural and social/emotional skills. The structure, quality teaching and individualised support given by the staff goes a long way to breaking the bonds of negativity.
A successful transition to any new setting will require the attainment of goals set down by the staff of the Bundalong Unit.
They include:
• A satisfactory attendance pattern
• Adherence to the rules of both the Bundalong Unit and the school as a whole
• A willingness to try and achieve their best.
• Individual lines of study will be discussed at relevant meetings to achieve the best outcomes for the student.
Students may follow a mainstream study pattern, Life Skills study pattern or a combination of the two, and this will depend on the individual needs of the student.
Students are given the option to study elective subjects in Year 9 and 10.
A Work Experience program will play an important role in the student's schooling as well as the possibility of TVET (TAFE) courses in the student's senior years.
The students will study a range of subjects over Stages 4, 5 and eventually 6. An example of a program of study could include:
English |
Mathematics |
Science |
History |
Geography |
PD.H.PE |
Food Technology |
Wood Technology |
Visual Arts |
Sport |
Work Experience |
Community Access |