Four Geraldton schools will work together under a new partnership to provide greater support for students with autism.
Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said from 2021, students with autism at Waggrakine Primary School, Geraldton Primary School, Wandina Primary School and Champion Bay Senior High School will be part of the $2.6 million Geraldton Lighthouse Model.
Under the model, teachers will share their expertise and knowledge to teach students in innovative ways and there will be targeted professional learning so research can be shared among staff.
There are currently 205 students with autism at Geraldton schools with enrolments expected to increase in the coming years.
Each school will have facilities upgraded to cater for the program in addition to resources that meet the needs of students.
A co-ordinator will be employed to lead the program.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“I’m pleased that families in Geraldton who have children with autism will have additional support under this new program.
“Staff at Waggrakine Primary School, Geraldton Primary School, Wandina Primary School and Champion Bay Senior High School will work together to provide greater opportunities for these students.”
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Laurie Graham:
“We want every student in the region to have the best possible education and I know staff are very excited about this new partnership.
“I am pleased to see these local schools working together.
“This a great initiative that the community will welcome.”
