State cross-country success of Year 12 student Benji Merrick highlights the opportunities available through Aspect's specialist education model.
Springwood, NSW - Families in the Blue Mountains have access to a specialist autism education pathway designed to support students who may find traditional school environments challenging.
Aspect Western Sydney School operates two satellite classrooms for students in Years 7–12 at St Columba's Catholic College, combining the benefits of a mainstream school setting with specialist autism-informed education and support.
The satellite classroom model provides a bridge between specialist and mainstream education, supporting students to build confidence, develop skills and participate in school life while receiving tailored support from Aspect's experienced teaching staff.
For many Autistic students, challenges such as anxiety, sensory differences, social communication difficulties or school attendance barriers can make learning more difficult. Satellite classrooms are designed to help students access education in a supportive and inclusive environment while remaining connected to a mainstream school community.
Michelle Zikmundovsky, Principal, Aspect Western Sydney School said every student is different, and for some young people, the transition between specialist and mainstream education can be challenging.
"Satellite classrooms provide a supportive environment where students can learn, build confidence and develop the skills they need for future success while remaining part of a broader school community," said Ms Zikmundovsky.
The opportunities available through the satellite classroom extend beyond the classroom. Year 12 student Benji Merrick recently represented his school at the NSW All Schools Cross Country Championships, finishing an outstanding 11th in the Under 18 Boys 8km event. His time of 26 minutes and nine seconds earned him selection as a reserve for the NSW team for the National Championships, placing him among the state's top school-aged distance runners.
"Benji's performance is something the whole school community is celebrating," said Ms Zikmundovsky. "His dedication, perseverance and commitment to his training have been outstanding, and finishing among the top school runners in NSW is a wonderful achievement. We're incredibly proud of him and look forward to cheering him on in the future.
The model also supports future transitions, with some students progressing into mainstream classes when they are ready. Transition decisions are made collaboratively between families, Aspect staff and the school, with each student's individual needs, readiness and educational goals carefully considered.
Renai Stanley, whose child Ruby is in Year 8 at St Columbas’ Satellite Class, said the satellite classroom has given her the best of both worlds. “Ruby receives the specialist support she needs while still being part of a mainstream school community,” said Ms Stanley. “We've seen her confidence grow every term, and she’s now doing things we never thought would be possible when she first started."
Ms Zikmundovsky added, "Satellite classrooms are not the right fit for every Autistic student, which is why we take the time to work with families to determine whether the program is the most appropriate setting for their child's individual needs and educational goals. For students who are suited to the model, it can provide the support and confidence they need to thrive."
Aspect is currently accepting enquiries from families interested in learning more about the satellite classrooms at St Columba's Catholic College, Springwood.
Media contact
Karen Keech karen@establishedpr.com.au 0411 052 408
About Aspect Satellite Classrooms
Aspect satellite classrooms are specialist classes located within mainstream schools. They are designed for Autistic students who can benefit from both specialist support and opportunities to engage with the wider school community. Students follow individual learning programs and receive support tailored to their needs, with pathways available to increase participation in mainstream settings where appropriate.
About Aspect
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the world’s most extensive autism-specific educational programs. Celebrating 60 years in 2026, we are a not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum to co-develop, co-produce and co-deliver supports and services that are individualised, goal driven and grounded in evidence-based practices.
