Running Education and Training Program - Autism Welfare Foundation

Running Education and Training Program

Educating children with autism is a challenge for both parents and teachers. These children are individuals first and foremost, with unique strengths and weaknesses. Some may be of average to above-average intelligence, while others may be below average. Academic goals need to be tailored to that individual's intellectual ability and functioning level. Recognizing this reality, AWF started an education and training centre named “Kanon”. The aim of this institution is to provide a safe and secure learning environment for students with ASD.

In order to provide a high-quality and relevant education for children and young adults with autism, a combined program including education and training has been introduced. AWF has its own course and curriculum to provide education to these autistic children.
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is prepared on the basis of functional assessments.

Currently, the school has 11 classes in which around 141 children aged 3–18 years and above are placed in 2 shifts (morning and day) depending on their abilities, needs and chronological age. In the early ages, the emphasis is given on developing communication, as well as building basic interaction skills, pre-reading and writing skills and concept building. Concepts are taught in one-on-one sessions, while group activities are used to develop social skills.

AWF is also running 2 pre-normal classes named “Nayantara” and “Malati”, where 62 students are studying from Playgroup to Class IX, following the books ecommended by National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) syllabus, with the aim to enrol them in regular mainstream school.