Aspect’s unique transitional model
made possible by partner schools
Aspect Schools operate over 100 satellite classrooms across NSW. These important spaces offer transition opportunities for both Aspect and host school students. Aspect satellites are connected to Aspect schools based across NSW and Adelaide.
Partner hosted satellite classes
Satellite classes are autism-specific classes located within mainstream schools. Students placed in satellite classes are often on a journey into mainstream school. Aspect satellites offer:
- Access to broader school resources
- Daily interaction with same-aged peers
- Supported pathways to integration
- Pathways to transition into mainstream schooling
Transition opportunities for students are key to Aspect’s model of schooling. Both host school and Aspect students are able to benefit from pathways to the most suitable learning spaces for their current stage of growth.
The opportunity
Aspect is currently seeking partner schools to help expand inclusion opportunities for children on the autism spectrum.
Aspect works with partner schools by embedding autism-specific classrooms within the local campus. These classes:
- Are led by qualified, autism-trained Aspect teachers and aides
- Facilitate structured inclusion and integration with the wider school
- Prepare students to move into mainstream schools
Aspect works alongside partner schools to support staff with professional learning based on over 59 years of autism specific practice.
Currently, we operate regionally to the south as far as Albury and Port Macquarie to the north, with a network of schools across Sydney, the Central Coast and Newcastle.
Benefits of a satellite class for your school
1. Creating an inclusive setting in your own school community
Schools do their best to include diverse learners but resourcing can be a challenge because of the scope of needs in a given classroom. The recent Autism Awareness Australia National Parent and Carer Survey Report (2025) found that:
- 87.3% of parents worry about their child’s mental health and wellbeing at school.
- 61.3% report school refusal, often due to sensory and social challenges.
- Only 15.9% say their child is currently thriving in school.
These insights highlight the opportunity to strengthen inclusive practices and supports through collaborative partnerships.
Aspect works with partner schools to accommodate enrolments of children on the autism spectrum in our specialised satellite classrooms. These classrooms are fitted out to specialised design standards and managed by with highly trained Aspect teaching staff.
2. Empowering your team
Aspect’s education team works with partner school staff to:
- Deliver autism-specific professional learning
- Support inclusive practice and behaviour strategies
- Facilitate learning walks, co-teaching, and shared planning
3. Building a sense of belonging in a shared school culture
Students attending an Aspect satellite class are encouraged to:
- Join assemblies, sports, library, excursions
- Build friendships across year groups
- Celebrate achievements alongside their peers
- Wear the partner school uniform
- Are included in the school community
4. Transformative community impact
Aspect partnerships enrich the whole school community:
| Students | Families | School Teams |
|---|---|---|
| Thrive in safe, structured spaces | Feel heard and supported | Gain tools for inclusive teaching |
| Build emotional resilience | Avoid long travel and uncertainty | Engage confidently with the school |
| Connect with peers | Engage confidently with the school | Lead in inclusive practice |
FAQs
1. How can partnering with Aspect benefit our school community?
Partnering with Aspect brings a wealth of expertise in autism-specific education directly into your school. It enhances your school’s capacity to support diverse learners, strengthens inclusive practices, and provides access to specialist staff and resources. This collaboration not only benefits Autistic students but also enriches the learning environment for all students and supports professional growth for your staff.
2. How does a partnership with Aspect improve student outcomes?
Aspect-trained staff deliver personalised learning plans, sensory-friendly environments, and social-emotional support. These strategies help Autistic students thrive and also benefit other students through inclusive, differentiated teaching.
3. What professional development does Aspect offer our staff?
Aspect provides ongoing professional learning in autism-friendly practices, inclusive teaching strategies, and data-informed instruction—building staff confidence and capability across the school.
4. How does Aspect help build a more inclusive school culture?
Aspect’s presence fosters understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. Their collaborative approach helps schools create environments where all students feel they belong and are supported to succeed.
5. What support do teachers receive in managing diverse learning needs?
Partner schools gain access to Aspect’s specialist teachers, therapists, and case management systems. This includes coaching, shared planning, and instructional support tailored to student needs.
6. How do Aspect satellite classrooms integrate with our school?
Satellite classrooms are co-located on the school site. Students wear the school uniform, join events, and participate in shared activities—strengthening community ties and promoting inclusion.
7. Can our school influence the integration process?
Yes. Integration activities are collaboratively planned, documented, and tailored to each student. Schools help shape protocols, shared spaces, and communication strategies to ensure success.
8. What are the benefits for our broader school community?
- Students: Learn in inclusive settings and develop empathy.
- Parents: Gain confidence in the school’s ability to support diverse learners.
- Staff: Receive expert guidance and professional growth opportunities.
9. How does Aspect support student transitions?
Aspect manages transitions with Individual Transition Plans, follow-up support, and collaboration with host schools—ensuring smooth movement into mainstream settings when appropriate.
10. What are the governance and financial arrangements?
Partnerships are governed by a Licence agreement (3–10 years). Aspect pays an annual classroom fee and manages staffing, property, and compliance responsibilities.
11. What infrastructure is required from our school?
Aspect prefers access to two classrooms (8m x 8m), with proximity to playgrounds, parking, and amenities. They can provide demountables if needed and handle fit-out and maintenance.
12. Do partner schools receive priority on new student enrolments?
Yes they do, subject to Aspect staff’s observation of the new student and assessment of their suitability for the satellite classroom or associated main site.
