Specialised Learning Program (SLP) – Autism

Heathridge Primary School is one of eleven public primary schools to host the Specialised Learning Program (SLP) for Autistic Students. The SLP is a program for up to 25 autistic students from Kindergarten to Year 6 who do not have the competencies at the point of enrolment to participate successfully full-time in mainstream classrooms.

The program targets age-appropriate academic engagement and achievement while supporting the students’ communication, organisational skills, socialisation and self-regulation. Evidence-based approaches including Positive Behaviour Support, Discrete Trial Training, Direct Instruction, facilitated play, visual supports, schedules, explicit instruction, Zones of Regulation, Protective Behaviours, incidental teaching and modelling underpin the behaviourist approach adopted in the program to support the students’ development. Each student’s individual program is based on their unique profile, strengths, needs and goals, and encourage the development of their personal and social capabilities.

Students spend some of their time in their SLP homeroom class undertaking specialist support and some of their time in mainstream classes.

Our SLP has three homerooms:

Room 7 – K/PP/1

Room 8 – Year 2/3/4

Room 13 – Year 5/6

Meet the Team
The SLP is managed in collaboration with the Principal, Denise Pires, and the Program Coordinator, Bronwyn May.

The K/PP/1 homeroom uses intensive evidence-based teaching strategies to facilitate learning outcomes so that the students have greater skills for mainstream participation and independence. Kindergarten students attend the program full time which is every Monday, Tuesday, and every second Wednesday (full days). Pre-Primary and Year One students attend the program with gradual transition into their mainstream classes.

The Year 2/3/4 homeroom uses explicit teaching strategies and hands-on activities to engage students and teach academic skills, and provide opportunities to support the development of skills such as communication self-regulation, peer interaction and organisational skills.

The Year 5/6 homeroom uses explicit teaching strategies to engage students and teach academic skills, and provide opportunities to support the development of skills such as communication self-regulation, peer interaction and executive functioning skills.

How do I apply?
For more information about the Department Of Education Initiative, please click here.

For the Specialised Learning Program Frequently Asked Questions click here.

If you would like more information or would like an Expression of Interest Form sent to you, please contact the Program Coordinator, Bronwyn May, on 9233 8950 or Heathridge.ps@education.wa.edu.au

Testimonies from families of students in Heathridge Primary School’s SLP:

My son’s development has been phenomenal in such a short period - I can honestly say that if it wasn't for his beautiful teachers who make him feel so loved I don’t think he would have been able to develop so quickly.

The support and care received for my child is genuine and individual.

The massive behavioural and learning gains my child has made due to the teachers and EA's. I love that they freely communicate any news be it positive or an issue after school.

It's been life changing for our son who was completely disengaged from schooling. He now loves attending school and has been able to actively learn and create friendships.

Everything has been fantastic. Couldn’t fault any of the staff , or anything about the school . It’s the best run school , most informative, most friendly, caring and interactive staff possible. It’s an absolute honour to have our child attending this school and program. The support and guidance given to my child and to us as parents is great .