Specialist Learning Program – Autism Spectrum Disorder
Supporting success. Building independence. Empowering every learner.
The Specialised Learning Program – Autism (SLP-A) at Kelmscott Senior High School is designed for students in Years 7-10 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Our program provides personalised, neurodiversity-affirming support to help students engage with learning, achieve academically, and develop the skills they need to thrive at school and beyond.
We focus on removing barriers, building capability, and supporting students to succeed alongside their peers in a mainstream environment.
Why Choose SLP-A at Kelmscott SHS?
SLP-A offers a supportive and structured pathway for students who may be at risk of:
- Disengagement from school
- Underachievement
- Difficulties with organisation, social interaction, or daily living skills
Our approach is proactive and future-focused – helping students build confidence, independence, and the skills needed for lifelong success.
Our Approach
At the heart of SLP-A are Individualised Documented Plans (IDPs), tailored to each student’s strengths, goals, and needs.
These plans are:
- Developed collaboratively with students, families, and teachers
- Strengths-based and guided by student interests
- Flexible and responsive to ongoing growth
Through this approach, students build skills in:
- Organisation and executive functioning
- Social understanding and positive relationships
- Emotional regulation
- Self-advocacy and independence
Our program supports both academic achievement and social-emotional development, aligned to each student’s pathway.
SLP-A is a Department of Education initiative supported by the School of Special Educational Needs: Disability (SSEND).
A Supportive Learning Environment
The Den
A key feature of SLP-A is The Den – a calm, structured space available throughout the school day.
Students:
- Attend mainstream classes as their primary learning environment
- Access The Den when needed, based on individual plans
- Receive support in a safe, low-stimulation setting
The Den is staffed by experienced teachers and education assistants who:
- Provide targeted support for students
- Work closely with mainstream teachers
- Ensure consistent strategies across all learning environments
SLP-A is an integrated program, not a separate unit – students remain connected to mainstream school life.
PRIME Classes
Students participate in targeted PRIME lessons designed to build key life and learning skills:
- Years 7 – 8: 4 sessions per week
- Year 9: 2 sessions per week
These sessions focus on:
- Social skills development
- Emotional regulation strategies
- Executive functioning and organisation
Facilities & Program Capacity
- Small, supportive program capped at 18 students
- Personalised attention and structured support
- Access to all mainstream school facilities and opportunities
Eligibility
Students applying for SLP-A must:
- Meet WA public school enrolment requirements
- Have a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (without intellectual disability)
- Qualify for a Department of Education disability allocation under ASD
- Be working towards year-level achievement with support (including ATAR, WACE, or VET pathways)
- Be independent in personal care
The program is suited to students experiencing challenges such as:
- Social communication differences
- Sensory preferences impacting learning
- Difficulty engaging beyond specific interests
- Challenges with change or unpredictability
- Emotional regulation needs
Enrolment Information
- Students accepted into SLP-A are not restricted by local intake boundaries
- Current Kelmscott SHS students may apply
- Students outside the intake area can enrol once placement is confirmed
- Please note – transport is the responsibility of families
Placement Process
Each application is carefully reviewed to ensure the program is the right fit.
The process includes:
- Student observation
- Meetings with families and the student
- Consultation with the current school and professionals
- Review of key documentation (reports, NAPLAN, attendance, existing plans)
Building Independence for the Future
SLP-A is designed as a pathway, not a permanent placement.
Students’ progress is reviewed annually, with a focus on:
- Increasing independence
- Strengthening skills
- Supporting a successful transition within mainstream schooling and beyond
For more information or to discuss enrolment, please contact:
Kelmscott.SHS.SLP@education.wa.edu.au
