Thursday, May 17, 2007.
Autism. People who are diagnosed with autism can still lead a normal life like most people, in almost aspect. With an education system specially moulded for them. the autistic can still gain qualifications. In Singapore, we too have specialised schools to cater to the autistic and children who are handicapped in one way or another.
Now, let me give you a brief summary of what the education system is like for the autistic children attending special eduction schools(SPED). Firstly, the children are diagnosed at the young age 2-5. Then, children who are indentified to be autistic will attend lessons at schools for the autistic [links pls go to autistic VIDS]and will complete a basic education up till the age of 12, like other normal children. While the children in mainstream schools undergo PSLE and gets streamed in secondary schools for the secondary education, autistic children are promoted to the next segment of education, where they will study up till the age of 18.
Then, under the SPED programme, they will be sent for vocational training, day activity centres or even be under sheltered emloyment, after the age of 18. Students in the mainstream schools will go to polytechinics, JCs, ITE, and eventually work or further their studies at universities. Autistic people will be given sutiable training and if permitted, may even work in some basic jobs.
In most SPED schools catering to autistic children, subjects auch as language, maths and mother tongue is taught. Lessons such as Life Skills and Physical Education are also conducted to allow students to progress and lead more normal lives. There are even training sessions for some of them to prepare them for employment.
In conclusion, the autistic children are well taken care of in the Singaporean education system, and are not forgetten. Every child, regardless of ability, is given a chance at education and to contribute.
EiLeeN <3
!traces of loneliness.
5:57 AM
