Students eligible for the SALP program will be supported in achieving success in a mainstream schooling environment, accessing curriculum at level. Pathways for students into University, TAFE and other workforce/training opportunities are interwoven with social (Social Thinking curriculum) and personal development programs to help students succeed beyond secondary schooling.
SPECIALISED AUTISM LEARNING PROGRAM (SALP)
Specialised Autism Learning Program (SALP)
Southern River College is one of eight exclusive State Secondary Schools that has a specific Specialised Autism Learning Program (SALP) aimed at providing students with Autism Spectrum Disorder a greater opportunity to achieve their aspirations. The Year 7-12 program is an evidence-based program reflective of current and evidence based best practice research and is supported by School of Special Education Needs – Autism Education Services.
Students eligible for SALP will be supported in achieving success in a mainstream schooling environment, accessing curriculum at level. Pathways for students into University, TAFE and other workforce/training opportunities are interwoven with social (Social Thinking curriculum) and personal development programs to help students succeed beyond secondary schooling.
Entry to the SALP is determined by an Independent Panel who convenes in Term 3 of each year. The program is designed and resourced to provide for students who meet the following criteria;
– Student has a confirmed diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder
– Student is academically capable of understanding and coping with grade level content and tasks
– Behaviour is managed independently or through the use of prompts / strategies
– Student independently manages personal care requirements
– Families can provide reliable transport to and from the SALP
Entry places to the Specialised Autism Learning Program each year are limited and Expressions of Interest for students entering year 7 are requested by the 29th June the previous year.
For further information regarding our Specialised Autism Learning Program please contact our SALP Manager Mr Courtney Wilson on 9391 6500 or email southernrivercollege@education.wa.edu.au.
Alternatively you can complete your details below.
About the Specialised Autism Learning Program
SALP is a holistic program aimed at providing academic students with autism positive opportunities to develop their personal, social and emotional outcomes in order to maximise a student’s independence and provide opportunities for the student to access University, TAFE/Registered Training Organisations or workforce opportunities. Each student has their own tailored program that assists the student to develop their strengths, social cognition and thinking skills, explores their interests and abilities and looks to extend their educational skills in Mathematics, English and Science.

SALP Structure
SALP has a dedicated facility on school site that provides the opportunity for SALP staff to run individually tailored education programs for students accepted into the specialised learning program. The facility contains teaching spaces, socialisation spaces, ICT resources and engagement resources that enable staff to teach a Social Thinking Curriculum (Michelle Garcia Winner) and provide a safe space for students to practice these skills. SALP is closely linked to mainstream schooling and also looks for ways to create positive opportunities for students both academically and socially, such as SALP students inviting their friends from the wider community into the SALP during break times. The program is supported by a Program Manager, two specialised teaching staff and experienced Educational Assistants all working collaboratively throughout the school community to ensure all individually tailored programs cover the following settings:
– Access and success in mainstream secondary schooling
– Engaging in social and emotional programs
– Being involved and a member in the school and wider community