AUTISM INCLUSION TEACHER
T1 2025
Hello from the Autism Inclusion Teacher!
At Hackham East Primary School, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. As part of this commitment, our staff recently engaged in professional learning. One of the areas we focused on was executive functioning—a set of essential mental skills that help students plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks successfully. Research estimates that up to 78% of autistic individuals have difficulties with executive functioning. Diverse learners often have difficulties with one or some of these areas.
Executive functioning skills are crucial for student success both in and out of the classroom. Difficulties in this area can impact learning, behaviour, and social interactions. Our training aimed to build staff knowledge and provide practical strategies to support students who may struggle with these skills.
During the session, staff explored key components of executive functioning, including:
Our educators participated in hands-on activities and discussions, exploring strategies such as visual schedules and step-by-step instruction breakdowns to assist students in developing their executive functioning skills. Teachers shared experiences and brainstormed ways to implement these strategies in their classrooms.
We also explored Goblin Tools, a website that utilizes ChatGPT (AI/machine learning) to break tasks into manageable steps. It offers a collection of small, straightforward, single-purpose tools, primarily designed to support neurodivergent individuals with tasks they may find overwhelming or challenging.
By equipping our staff with a deeper understanding of executive functioning, we can better support our students in developing independence, resilience, and problem-solving abilities. We look forward to continuing our journey in creating a learning environment where all students can thrive.
I have attached some resources and videos. If you would like to learn more about executive functioning and how you can support your child at home, please feel free to reach out for further resources and guidance.
Resources:
A quick snapshot explaining executive functioning- https://vimeo.com/803269318
Support strategies: https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/uploads/Executive-Functioning-strategies.pdf
AI Technology
Free upcoming courses- Positive Partnerships
Self-care and independence- Please join us for an opportunity to explore, share and learn with families, carers and professionals supporting school aged autistic students to build their self-care and independence skills.
References:
Positive Partnerships- https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/resources/practical-tools-information-sheets/executive-functioning
Claire McGarvey
Autism Inclusion Teacher