A new purpose-built, autism-specific primary school in Sydney’s growing north-west promises a tailored learning environment for students on the spectrum.
The Aspect Hills Shire School will cater for up to 72 students on the autism spectrum from kindergarten to Year 6 and is run by national autism service provider Aspect.
Located in Gables, a growing Sydney suburb, Aspect Hills Shire School has been designed to support the unique needs of autistic students, with innovative and adaptable learning spaces.
The two-storey school features twelve autism-friendly classrooms, a multi-purpose hall, a sensory outdoor area, life skills kitchen, technology room and library.
Maryanne Gosling, Aspect’s national director of education, said the new school will meet the growing demand for specialist education in the region while offering more choices for families in the Hills District.
“With Western Sydney now home to over a quarter of the state’s population, and Aspect’s latest estimate that more than 1 in 40 Australians are autistic, the demand for specialist education continues to rise,” she said.
“More parents and carers are actively seeking schools that align with their child’s learning and developmental needs. Aspect Hills Shire School is specifically designed for autistic students, incorporating calm spaces, specialist educators and sensory accommodations to enhance their educational experience.”
Warren Kirby, MP for Riverstone said the Aspect Hills Shire School is a welcome addition to the community.
“Most schools in our area are over capacity and this is particularly challenging for autistic students. Having a school specifically designed to cater for their needs ensures they have the opportunity to reach their full potential,” he said.
Aspect Hills Shire School is the tenth autism-specific school to be opened by Aspect across NSW and SA.
It was jointly funded by the NSW Government’s Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program and Aspect.