Richmond Primary School at Keswick has launched the Labor government’s new Autism Inclusion Teacher program.
The school’s own Austism Inclusion Teacher is experienced classroom teacher Robin Oien. Congratulations Rob!
More than 400 Autism Inclusion Teachers will begin in their new roles from this week to help build South Australian understanding and knowledge to support autistic children and young people.
The Malinauskas Labor Government has invested $28.8 million to provide access to an Autism Inclusion Teacher (AIT), in every public primary school, including Reception to Year 12 schools, as part of a key election commitment.
The role of AITs will be to build their own knowledge and expertise to influence the practice of other staff at the school.
This will include advice on setting up calm spaces, emotional regulation techniques and other learning expertise to support neurodiverse students best learn in the school environment.
In total, 417 AITs have nominated across South Australia, with some small or regional and remote schools choosing to combine the role across multiple sites.
The Education Department has consulted with autistic people with lived experience, parents and carers, educators, schools, students, families, experts, and community organisations on the AIT role to ensure it fits the need of the community.
Most of the AITs were already practicing classroom teachers, while others are in key leadership roles at their school. Each AIT will work 1-2 days each fortnight in their new role, providing practical opportunities to apply their learning across the site.
The AITs will develop their skills through a targeted professional learning package which includes face-to-face training, workshops and online modules.
The online education program kicks off with a welcome webinar for all new AITs today, as a way to get to know each other and to support each other in their expertise across sites.
Quotes attributable to Member for Badcoe Jayne Stinson
It’s a confronting experience to have a child diagnosed with autism.
We stand with parents as they navigate their child’s path through the school system.
I’m proud to see South Australia leading the way in this space, by expanding the dedicated efforts of our passionate and committed teachers.
I’m especially pleased that this initiative is being launched at Richmond Primary School, which has worked so hard to create a fully inclusive environment especially in terms of multiculturalism.
This nation-leading initiative will see these teachers build their own skills and in turn each school’s capacity to work with autistic children and young people.
This significant initiative is an important step to change lives and better support our students through their education.
Quotes attributable to Richmond Primary School Autism Inclusion Teacher Robin (Rob) Oien
I am very supportive of this program and was eager to nominate for this role because I saw the opportunity to build my own practice so I can be a better teacher.
This role will allow me to work with my colleagues across our diverse school to improve our capabilities to support neurodivergent students.