The Grace Wing at Ashlings

In 2015 Ashton College will launch a specialised wing of the Ashlings Early Learning Centre catering for children on the autism spectrum. The Grace Wing will consist of two small classes, initially overlooking the Ashlings Early Learning Centre. As the need grows and as Ashton acquires more land, these classes will be expanded to a completely new facility.

The Grace Wing will open its doors to students aged four to seven in two classes of eight. The plan is to deliver an adapted and autism-specific curriculum, using an eclectic blend of world’s best practice in educating pupils of this spectrum.

“The Grace Wing will incorporate a remedial curriculum for which there is an urgent need in Ballito. At Ashton, we believe that every child deserves to reach their highest potential, therefore the Grace Wing will provide a highly structured environment suited to the learning profiles of these children who, as they grow and achieve, work towards full-time inclusion within the mainstream classes of their peers at each individual’s rate of progression,” said CEO André Buys.

Staffing will fall under the expertise of Tammy Bennett, who will be assisted by individually trained teachers, teachers’ assistants, fully qualified occupational therapists and speech therapists who will be on campus full time.

“We are extremely excited about this one-of-a-kind venture in KZN, where children will be able to learn at their own pace, in their own way and yet have access to the wonderful Ashton facilities, just as any other child would,” said Flick Holmes, junior college head.

Admissions are being processed immediately, and inquiries can be directed to Glynis Hunter on 032-9462096 or admissions@ashtonballito.co.za

Follow the North Coast Courier on Twitter, Facebook and BBM: 2A24E31A.