Adelaide, South Australia – Aspect Treetop School has officially unveiled the restored historic Ashford House alongside new outdoor learning and playground spaces, marking a major milestone for Autistic students and families in South Australia.
The redevelopment preserves the heritage-listed Ashford House while creating modern, autism-informed environments designed to support learning, connection and wellbeing for students at the school.
Originally established in 1881, Ashford House sits on land with a much longer history connected to the original Ashford property established by Dr Charles Everard in 1836. The site also features a heritage-listed River Red Gum tree stump believed to be hundreds of years old.
Aspect CEO Jacqui Borland said the project reflects Aspect’s commitment to creating inclusive learning environments that support the wellbeing, confidence and potential of Autistic students.
“It’s wonderful to see this historic site continue to evolve in a way that respects its heritage while creating spaces where students can learn, connect and feel part of their school community,” Ms Borland said.
“For the past decade, Aspect Treetop School has supported Autistic students and families across South Australia from this site, and these upgrades will help ensure the school can continue doing that for many years to come.”
The restoration involved extensive structural repairs, roof replacement, drainage upgrades and restoration of original heritage features, while upgrading the building to function as a modern educational space.
The school’s outdoor areas and playground have been transformed into welcoming spaces designed to support play, learning, regulation and social connection.
The new outdoor learning areas include spaces designed to support sensory regulation, movement, quiet retreat and social connection, recognising the important role the physical environment plays in helping Autistic students feel calm, safe and ready to engage in learning.
Kaye Perry, Principal of Aspect Treetop School said the redevelopment would have a meaningful day-to-day impact on students.
“These spaces have been designed with our students in mind,” Ms Perry said.
“For many Autistic students, having access to calm outdoor environments, sensory-friendly spaces and areas where they can regulate or recharge can make a real difference to how they feel throughout the school day.
“These new spaces will give students more opportunities to build confidence, connect with others and enjoy being part of their school community.”
The project was supported by Federal Government funding and delivered with contributions from G-Force, Construction Assignments, Hosking Willis, Clover Green Space and LCS Landscapes.
Aspect also acknowledges the support and flexibility of Aspect Treetop School staff and families throughout the works.
The official opening will be attended by students, families, staff, community partners and guests including Mr Steve Georganas MP, Member for Adelaide.
Media contact:
Karen Keech karen@establishedpr.com.au 0411 052 408
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.
