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Signs of autism usually appear by age two or three, and many children are diagnosed around this time. The exact cause of autism has not yet been discovered.
Some of the main characteristic features of Autism include:
Many children with autism, especially those on the higher support side of the spectrum, may have an accompanying intellectual disability, poor motor coordination, severely delayed language development or be pre-verbal (they are non-speaking). Some children with autism often also present with medical difficulties, such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental-health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties.
While autism is considered a lifelong disorder, the degree of impairment in functioning owing to the challenges they experience varies between individuals. Each child with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. Some children with autism may need significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support.
Our school grounds have a rich history as part of the Healthcare and Education sectors before becoming what it is today. The school is one of a few specialised satellite schools started by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) to cater for the great need in the Western Cape for school placements of learners with autism.
All children have the right to an education. However, not all children can benefit from a mainstream school programme and curriculum. Our school provides an educational setting for learners with autism that require high levels of educational and developmental support to learn effectively
We started with fourteen learners on the first day and now have more than eighty learners. The school follows the Differentiates CAPS Curriculum guidelines for a graded system. We currently have four Junior Section classes, six Middle Section classes and three Senior Section classes. The school’s language of learning and teaching (LoLT) is English.
Our vision is to empower every learner with autism to thrive as independent, confident, and compassionate individuals who can create positive change in the world.
Our mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive educational environment where learners with autism can develop their unique potential, acquire essential life skills, and build strong connections with their families and the community.
Above all, we value
◆ Respect: we honour the unique abilities and persectives of each learner and treat all with dignity and consideration
◆ Responsibility: we are committed to fostering independence and self-advocacy in our learners while also taking responsibility for their well-being
◆ Honesty: we value transparent and open communication among all members of our community
◆ Care: we are deeply invested in the well-being of our learners and their families, providing support and empathy at every step
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