Overview
Finding the strengths of each young person
The Sycamore School provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment for autistic young people. This School is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space where young people can work towards their academic, social, emotional, and behavioural goals. By offering a secure and inclusive educational setting, The Sycamore School aims to help our young people feel a sense of belonging, somewhere they are celebrated and empowered to thrive and reach their full potential.
Curriculum and Pathways
By utilising a strengths-based method, the School introduces new and creative teaching techniques, evidence-based strategies, and follows the Australian National Curriculum to create a supportive learning environment. Through quality instruction, community involvement, and support programs, the School offers pathways to help young people progress in their educational journey and beyond.
Our Focus for Young People
At The Sycamore School, the focus is on empowering young individuals to create their own path. It goes beyond meeting academic standards; it involves giving each young person a voice, equipping them with the skills to advocate for themselves, and involving them in the decision-making processes. The School aims to build young peoples’ confidence, self-determination, and a sense of belonging within the community.
The School’s Philosophy
The School’s philosophy revolves around placing the young person at the centre. Tailoring programs to each young person’s unique strengths and qualities, allowing for the recognition and implementation of learning opportunities. We believe that each autistic young person can create a life of their choosing and that they bring a unique perspective that the world needs, this is their superpower!
At the centre of The Sycamore School’s Educational Program is our vision, mission and values informed by The Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration. The Sycamore Schools Educational Program provides a foundation for young people to engage with school in a positive and meaningful way whilst supporting them to understand themselves and others, develop social and emotional skills as well as cultivate critical cognitive frameworks that support them to engage with the world around them. We plan, teach, assess, and report on the Australian Curriculum Prep – Year 10, with significant consideration, to the development of social and emotional skills.
Using a strengths-based approach and child-centred programming, all young people are provided with relevant curriculum matched to their learning needs. Within a modified program of learning young people are taught the curriculum at a level and breadth that will support their learning and enable them to move forwards and show progress. Educators employ various methods to cater to different abilities, and interests within a single classroom. This may include adjusting the content, process, or product of learning to meet individual needs.